The McGrath Switch

Features & Technology

• Up to 14 Distinct Analog Tones: Map any combination of neck, middle, and bridge pickups (including series, parallel, individual coil isolates, and hybrid voicings) across 12 rotatable detents.
  
• Pure Analog Signal Path: Uses high-grade internal digital relays to route the passive pickup signals, preserving ultra-clean tone, zero loading loss, and uncompromised dynamics.
  
• Smart Performance & Failsafe Functions:
  
  • Instant Favorite Recall: A long-press saves your primary tone setting, allowing a single quick push to toggle between your active layout and favorite setting on the fly.
    
  • Triple-Tap Reset: Tapping the switch three times instantly resets the layout back to Position 1 during live performance.
    
  • Power Failsafe: In the event of a total battery drop, the internal logic automatically defaults to Position 1 to ensure signal continuity.
    
• Companion Mobile & Desktop App: Connect wirelessly or via USB to customize switch behavior on the fly.
  
  • Wrap Mode: Continuous rotation past the last position wraps around seamlessly back to Position 1.
    
  • Stop Mode: Configures hard mechanical/software boundaries at the end positions to prevent accidental wrapping during live gigs.
    

Documentation & Instructions

• Read the 12-Way Switch install manual or download the PDF (wiring diagram, terminal connections, first power-up and troubleshooting)
• Dingwall 3-pickup supplement (PDF): pickup wire colours, middle pickup, grounding and Darkglass preamp power for the NG3, Combustion 3X and other 3-pickup Dingwalls

Software & Downloads

• Software & Source Code: Access the control tools on the McGrath Guitars GitHub Repository.

Reviews & Coverage

• Bass Magazine Feature Article: Highlighted the McGrath Switch as a major leap forward in onboard electronics, detailing its 14 analog tone combinations, app customization, and seamless retrofitting for custom builds.
• The Bass Channel Review: Hands-on review showcasing the 32" medium-scale J-Style Thunderhorse V in Vice City finish, demonstrating the switch's tonal range across series, parallel, and single-coil voicings direct-to-desk.
• LowEndLobster Deep Dive: Full installation teardown and tone test demonstrating how the McGrath Switch retrofits into multi-pickup instruments.

Battery: Runs on 18 V from two 9V batteries in series, or on a single 9V battery. Batteries are not included; this item ships without batteries.