The BigShot SW2 Slingshot is a 2-channel universal remote control footswitch that can be used to replace
two amplifier foot switches and combine their main functions with a single pedal. This is of primary importance for pedalboard
users that always find themselves short on space. Both latching and pulse outputs are supported enabling the SW2 to control
both older amps with contact closure style channel switching and newer amps with electronic pulse sensing. These options are
augmented by the 'LINK' function that can gang both remote commands onto either foot switch. This could, for instance, switch
both amp channels in a stereo rig from a clean rhythm to a distorted lead channel with one single foot stomp. No tap dancing!
For
Tonebone pedal users, the SW2 provides a compact Slingshot™ remote switching controller that can be used to remotely
switch amp heads ( Headbone ) or speaker cabinets ( Cabbone ). When combined with guitar amps, the switching capabilities
are huge!
BigShot SW2 - switching channels and reverb: Each of the SW2's footswitches can be set to remotely switch
any amp's on-board features such as reverb, tremolo or amp channels.
BigShot SW2 Development
When Radial introduced the Slingshot concept, a new approach to amp and pedal switching came to be. Using the tried and true
switching systems that guitar amps have employed for years, Slingshot combines the simplicity of regular 1/4" guitar cable
interconnect with on-off functionality of a basic MIDI system — albeit without the pre-required electronic degree.
From
a controller like the Tonebone Loopbone, suddenly you can engage several effects pedals and change channels on your amp with
a single foot stomp. With the Headbone in tow, you could remotely switch heads with any footswitch. With Cabbone, you could
switch amp channels and speaker cabinets with one tap.
The SW2 Switchbone represents a natural evolution by providing
a compact remote control with two footswitches that now lets you control either Tonebones or amps from a single device. And
by adding the latch function, now multiple devices can 'snap' into action with a single foot stomp.
Obviously, to do
all of these tricks, the SW2 is not just a simple low-cost mechanical foot switch. Beneath the surface, complex electronics
are employed to make the SW2's seemingly simple functions look easy. This is why the SW2 can be a stand alone device and needs
to be powered with a 9V supply to perform its tasks. But for those that want the power of a custom made switcher, the BigShot
SW2 provides incredible value.
Using the BigShot SW2
The BigShot SW2 Slingshot is straight forward, but does require some technical understanding in effort to get the most out
of it. Begin by connecting a standard Boss style 9 to 12V power supply. Simply connecting the power supply turns the unit
on.
Following the block diagram, you can see that each remote output is equipped with two switches: The 'OPEN' and
'CLOSED' switch lets you toggle between a 'normally closed' or 'normally open' status to match the way your amp has been designed.
For instance, if you are using the SW2 to switch the channel on your amp, you would likely set the OPEN-CLOSED so that when
the LED on the SW2 is off, your amp would have channel-1 active.
The PATCH and PULSE switch lets you select the type
of control signal going to your amp. Older amps generally use a latch type control circuit whereby the footswitch dictates
the amps status. On the other hand, newer amps with electronic switching tend to use a momentary pulse to send a switching
function to the amp. Your SW2 Slingshot does both.
Should your amp employ a 1/4" TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) jack or some
other kind of multi-pin connection for the foot switch, you may have to build a break-out adaptor cable to allow the SW2 to
work with your system. For the most part, all you will need is a simple Y-jack that is available from any music store. To
be safe, we suggest you discuss your specific needs with a qualified tech to ensure you get the right adaptor.
At the
center of the SW2 control panel is the 'LINK' switch. This handy device lets you assign one of the two footswitches as the
master and the other as the slave. This enables the SW2 to toggle two different devices simultaneously by depressing a single
switch. There is no difference - either switch can be selected as master. The SW2 is set up this way to let you select the
switch that best suits your pedalboard.
Hookup is of course super easy! Just connect standard 1/4" guitar cables between
the SW2 and whatever devices you would like to remotely control. Distances of 100 feet (30 meters) or more are not a problem.
You are now ready to control the world!
Radial BigShot SW2 Slingshot Dual Footswitch Features:
- Universal foot switch for two amps or devices
- Link feature to switch both amps at same time
- Latching or pulse output to work with all amps
- Switches other Slingshot™ equipped devices
- Ultra compact—great for pedalboard use
Make switches quickly and easily, so you can concentrate on the music! Order today.
Radial BigShot SW2 Slingshot Dual Footswitch Specifications:
- Circuit type: active proprietary switching circuit
- Open / Closed switch: Sets switching status independently for R-1 and R-2
- Latch / Pulse switch: Sets switching type independently for R-1 and R-2
- Link switch: 3-position switch:
- Off - no link
- R1 - links R-2 with R-1
- R1 - links R-1 with R-2
- Footswitches: Heavy-duty high-cycle:
- Remote-1
- Remote-2
- Power requirement: 9 VDC - 40ma center negative
- Construction: 14 gauge steel, baked enamel finish
- Size: 3.6"w x 3.9"d x 2"h (92 x 99 x 51mm)
- Weight: 1.25 lb (0.56 kg)