Running two amps live

MIKA-the-better-one

So I really am going to have to start doing both amps live.
I guess I would be looking at an ABY switch. I would run from my board to 2 seperate amps (18, 20 watts) I would need the option to do A, then B, then A and B.
So how important is it that I get a Tue bypass switcher, and the ground lift? and the buffer to make up when i split the signal between 2 amps?

Should I go save fora Radial Twin City (which does it all) or should I go get a decent switcher that does not ground lift?

this is blowing my mind....

AlanRatcliffe

You do need ground lift, IMO. Also look at the Lehle ABY switchers.

MIKA-the-better-one

Thats what I was worried about, ground lift = extra $100 on most ABY switchers....
Maybe I should just go AB route..... ☹
The Lehle are by far the best from what I have read, but also way to much for my pockets right now ☹

Reinhard

I've wanted to try something like an ES-345 in stereo through two amps for a while now. I think it could be really cool.

AlanRatcliffe

You can run into ground loop problems with just an A/B switch too.

You could use a cheaper ABY and then if you pick up loop problems use a cable with ground lifted to one of the amps. But I always prefer getting whatever does the job right in the first place. Ideally you also need an ABY that lets you set the amp volumes on the Y - otherwise you end up twice as loud on that setting. Of course if you're using amp drive, then the lower volume also gives you lower drive - but you can still work with that.

MIKA-the-better-one

There is a cheap Whirlwind selector.... I could pick up....
I completly understand on the whole pick up what does the best job..... And agree....
But I am so broke for cash at the moment.... and I really want to get something to do the job..... also as I want to save up for some nice tubes in the future and perhaps a tele.
I may just get a cheap one and see how it goes :/ I always get nervous doing this but it occasionally pays off.

Mr-M

For an A/B switch, how about this:

Made by Jet City Amps and designed by JHS pedals. An A/ B Switcher with a built in boost. You shouldn't get ground loops as it's buffered. JHS make some great pedals. A friend of mine has a few of their pedals and they sound great.

http://www.jetcityamplification.com/2011/02/16/jhs-boost/

$69.99 here: http://cgi.ebay.com/Jet-City-JHS-A-B-Switch-Boost-Pedal-/380352991560

OR

For A/B/Y, the Radial Bigshot ABY

Has ground lift and a couple of other cool features, but no LEDs. You should be able to tell which amp is on though by the sound...

$79.99 here: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/BigShotABY/