Ctrl-X Push-Pull instead of push button for stereo/mono

[mero]

Hi, could the Ctrl-X preamp be wired with a push-pull pot controlling the stereo/mono selection instead of the default push button? Looking to minimise drilling on my guitar and keep as stock a look as possible. Thanks!

Also, how about a 3-position rotary pot instead of the 3-way toggle to control mag/blend/piezo?

[Bryan McManus]

Hi Mero,

I suppose it's possible to replace the plunger switch with the push/pull function of a pot, as long as the push/pull has the same six contacts as the plunger switch does, as each position connects two pairs of contacts. The 3-way mini-toggle could also be replaced with an alternative switch interface, as long as it is a 3-position DPDT switch usable as ON-ON-ON.

[banchan]

A white slide switch might be neat, too (on a white pickguard). It would take more pickguard surgery, but it would reduce the risk of inadvertently flipping the switch while strumming hard.

[mero]

Hi Bryan, got another question

The 9-lug stereo jack that came with the Ctrl-X unfortunately doesn't fit in my guitar. It's drilled with a 1/2 inch diameter hole, for a deep panel jack, like below

sidejack_options_deepjack.jpg

I do have this stereo deep panel jack (http://www.warmoth.com/Deep-Panel-St...t-P725C68.aspx), but it won't be able do the battery-switching function since there are only 3 lugs

Short of enlarging the hole to fit the ctrl-x jack (which I'm trying to avoid since the guitar is finished), are there any deep panel jacks that will work just as well? How about this Fishman jack with 4-lugs? http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Electron...dpin_Jack.html

Thanks!

[Bryan McManus]

Hi Mero,

The jack in the link will work since it has 4 conductors. LR Baggs offers one like it - we call it the Strapjack Plus - in a gunmetal finish with a rustic bronze finish on the strap button. Functionally, however, they are the same product.

A 3-conductor jack, like the Warmoth unit you mentioned, will also work if you're willing to use the CTRL-X in mono mode only. The Ring contact is only needed for signal if you plan to use stereo output mode. In mono mode, the ring contact can be the power switch.