Instruction Manual

Universal Bypass | 21
UNIVERSAL BYPASS
™
Another added feature in the Soundblox 2 line is Universal Bypass. In
other effects pedals, both traditional bypass methods have pros and
cons associated with them. Active analog bypass (or buffered) provides
a consistent input impedance so that if the input is susceptible (like a
guitar pickup) to variations in input impedance there won’t be any notice-
able change in tone. Buffered bypass is typically quieter and less prone
to clicks and pops. True bypass has the benefit of providing a dedicated
hardwire bypass signal path; however, it can cause clicks/pops and
typically requires a mechanically complex 3P3T (3-pole, 3-throw) switch.
Relay-based true bypass is a better option but can also cause tonal
variations since the input impedance can vary when the effect is engaged
vs. bypassed.
Ideally, the first pedal in a signal chain should be a buffered input fol-
lowed by true bypass in the rest of the signal chain.
The Soundblox 2 line introduces Universal Bypass™ as the solution to this
problem. Each Soundblox 2 pedal can be configured to either buffered or
relay-based true bypass modes, depending on what is needed in a pedal
signal chain.
By default, the Soundblox 2 Multiwave is set to use the relay-based true
bypass. To switch to buffered bypass press and hold the right footswitch
when powering up the pedal. Continue to hold the footswitch until the
footswitch LED blink slowly 3 times. The pedal is now in buffered bypass.
To switch back to true bypass, repeat the same process with the left
footswitch.