Pedal Switching Systems

A guitar pedal switching system (often just called a pedal switcher or looper — though not to be confused with loop recording pedals) is a clever device that lets you turn multiple effects on and off at once. When your pedalboard starts getting a little crowded, dancing between stompboxes mid-song can quickly become tricky.

But that’s where pedal switchers come in. These units let you organise, control and route your guitar pedals in a much more streamlined way, so you can whip between complex tone setups instantly and without the hassle. Whether you're gigging or just refining your board at home, a switching system keeps everything tidy and easy to use.

Are pedal switchers worth it?

Absolutely, especially if you’re running multiple stompboxes. With a standard loop switcher, you simply route your guitar pedals into separate signal loops and toggle them on and off using the unit’s footswitches. These switches sit neatly at the front of your board, meaning no more awkward stretching or accidental misfires mid-performance!

Not only does this make things more efficient, but it can also clean up your signal chain and even help preserve your tone by reducing unnecessary signal loss. If you’re serious about your sound (and your sanity on stage), a pedal switcher is a smart investment.

What are programmable pedal switchers?

Programmable pedal switching systems take things to the next level. They let you create and store custom presets, meaning you can engage multiple pedals simultaneously with a single press. For example, you could switch instantly from a sparkling clean tone with chorus and reverb to a fully saturated lead sound with distortion and delay — no tap dancing required.

Most programmable switchers also support MIDI, allowing you to control compatible MIDI-enabled pedals and guitar amps. So, you can change presets, adjust parameters and synchronise your entire rig with ease.

Who makes the best pedal switching systems?

Here at Andertons, we stock a wide range of top-quality pedal switchers from some of the biggest names in the business. The GigRig is a standout brand, founded by Daniel Steinhardt (of That Pedal Show fame). Their G3 switching systems are used by a huge roster of pro players including Noel Gallagher (Oasis), Ed O’Brien (Radiohead), Simon Neil (Biffy Clyro) and Andy Timmons.

Boss also offer incredibly reliable and powerful switching systems packed with handy features. While One Control produces compact, great-value solutions that are perfect for players looking to streamline their setup without breaking the bank.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Pedal Switchers.