I have a simple Pedalboard with an Orchid Transformer Isolator in circuit. To use a second amp, I connected the balanced output from my Peterson StroboStomp tuner. Worked nicely. But now I find that the balanced output refuses to output so what problem(s) will I create if I fit two Jack sockets in a box, both in parallel and soldered to a short guitar lead? The plug to the tuner output and one Jack to each amp (one is through the isolator).
Will this work or is there a better way? Thanks.
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Comments
A bespoke splitter here https://www.thomann.de/gb/jhs_pedals_buffered_splitter.htm
You need to buffer the signals so one amps input isn't loaded by the other and visa versa. You can do this with a very simple opamp circuit, use a dual one like a TLO72 or similar, feed the signal to both non inverting inputs, short both outputs to the inverting inputs for unity gain .... the only additional components needed would be blocking caps on the ins and outs and a couple of resistors to bias the non inverting inputs at half your supply. Maybe a lowish 470R or so in series with the outs to guard against accidental direct short of output.
I'm puzzled by why it doesn't work with the balanced output though - is there a TRS connection on one piece of equipment but not the other, and the wrong pin is used as hot, so then grounded by whatever it's connected to?
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I have recently discovered that my MXR KFK 10 band is true bypass, so I am using that as a splitter at home, it has 1 in and 2 outs, and works unpowered as a simple split.
I think any stereo pedal would do the same, if it is true bypass, and have recently been experimenting with signal loss through unpowered pedals. My board has 6 pedals, all analogue kits, and the first one in the line is a Klone with a buffer, this has to be powered in bypass, but the other 5 all pass signal with no appreciable loss of tone when unpowered in bypass.
I don't think I am being fooled by the buffer, but it was a revelation when I started to use it.
My only other stereo pedal to try, is a HOF mini, which has a dip switch for selecting buffer, and I think I wouldn't be using it with batteries as it is quite juicy.
There are more expensive isolated splitters available, which probably use the principles Danny describes above, and they will also be adding the benefits of a buffer, and I do believe most Boss pedals will not work as true bypass.
I like it when I can understand why my equipment works, but that is not always the case.
I made up a rough and ready splitter box, three old Jack sockets in a plastic box with all three sockets wired in parallel, and this worked as @ICBM said it would. There was some hum from the amps, two mains powered and one battery powered, this was reduced slightly when the two mains powered amps were powered from the same extension strip. Workable. I like using one mains powered amp and the battery powered amp as it gives a less boxy sound in our room than when a single amp is used.
I now know it can be done. More importantly my preferred two amp setup now works.
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