When it comes to signal management and routing, guitarists and audio engineers often rely on high-quality ABY switchers to ensure seamless transitions between different instruments, amplifiers, or effects chains. Two popular products in this category are the MORLEY ABY Mix and the Radial Engineering BigShot ABY. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, design, and performance of these two units to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Design and Build
The MORLEY ABY Mix is a compact, pedalboard-friendly unit with a sturdy metal construction and a sleek, modern design. It features a simple, intuitive layout with three footswitches (A, B, and Y) and a mix control that allows for blending the signals from both inputs. The pedal is powered by a 9V DC adapter and has a rugged, road-ready build quality.
In contrast, the Radial Engineering BigShot ABY is a more robust unit with a heavy-duty steel chassis and a distinctive, industrial design. It also features three footswitches (A, B, and Y) but adds a few extra controls, including a polarity reverse switch and a ground lift switch. The BigShot ABY can be powered by a 9V DC adapter or phantom power from a mixer or audio interface.
Signal Routing and Management
Both units are designed to provide reliable, noise-free signal routing and management. The MORLEY ABY Mix is a straightforward ABY switcher that allows you to toggle between two inputs (A and B) or combine them using the mix control. This feature is particularly useful for guitarists who want to blend the signals from two different instruments or amplifiers.
The Radial Engineering BigShot ABY, on the other hand, offers more advanced signal management capabilities. In addition to basic ABY switching, it features a polarity reverse switch that allows you to correct phase issues between two inputs, and a ground lift switch that helps eliminate hum and noise caused by ground loops. These extra features make the BigShot ABY a more versatile unit, especially in live sound and recording applications.
Aby Gates and Signal Integrity
When using ABY switchers, it's essential to consider the concept of "aby gates" – the points at which the signal is routed between different paths. Both units feature high-quality, low-noise aby gates that ensure signal integrity and minimize the risk of tone sucking or noise introduction.
However, the Radial Engineering BigShot ABY has a slight edge in this regard, thanks to its proprietary "Drag Control" technology, which allows you to adjust the impedance of the input circuitry to match your specific instrument or pickup configuration. This feature helps optimize signal transfer and reduces the risk of tone loss or coloration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the MORLEY ABY Mix and the Radial Engineering BigShot ABY are high-quality ABY switchers that can help you manage your signal routing and blending needs. While the MORLEY ABY Mix is a more straightforward, compact unit with a focus on simplicity and ease of use, the Radial Engineering BigShot ABY offers more advanced features and a higher degree of flexibility.
If you're looking for a basic ABY switcher with a mix control and a rugged, pedalboard-friendly design, the MORLEY ABY Mix may be the better choice. However, if you need a more versatile unit with advanced signal management capabilities, including polarity reverse and ground lift features, the Radial Engineering BigShot ABY is likely the better option.
Ultimately, the decision between these two units will depend on your specific needs and requirements. By considering factors such as design, build quality, signal routing, and aby gates, you can choose the unit that best fits your workflow and helps you achieve your desired tone.
