The Carl Martin Octa-Switch The Strip is an analog loop switcher for guitar pedals, designed to switch complete effect combinations with a single foot press. It features eight true-bypass loops and eight programmable banks for saving and quickly recalling preferred setups.

The loops can be used to combine overdrive, modulation, delay and other effects into one system. Blue LEDs indicate active loops, while green LEDs show the selected bank.

Eight loops and programmable banks

Each bank can store any combination of the eight loops. Instant Access allows individual loops to be temporarily activated or deactivated in the selected bank without changing the stored preset.

The loops use true-bypass relays with impedance-free gold contacts. When a loop is deactivated, it is removed from the signal chain.

Input and outputs

The main input can be set to either true bypass or buffered operation. In buffered operation, the input impedance is 500 kO. The Strip has assignable outputs, allowing each bank to be routed to the left output, right output or both. This supports connection to two amplifiers or a stereo setup. Bank 8 also features a stereo return for stereo effects at the end of the effects chain.

External switching and MIDI

Four external latching-switch outputs can be used to change channels or activate functions on a compatible guitar amplifier or other external equipment. Each external switch can be assigned per bank using DIP switches. Compatibility should be checked, as switching systems vary between amplifiers.

MIDI Out transmits eight MIDI presets on MIDI channel 1. Bank 1 corresponds to MIDI preset 1, with the remaining banks following the same sequence.

4-cable method

Loops 6, 7 and 8 can be routed through an amplifier's FX loop using the 4-cable method. This allows effects such as delay and reverb to be placed after the amplifier's gain section, while the remaining pedals stay before the amplifier input.

Technical specifications

• Analog, relay-based switching
• 8 true-bypass relay loops
• 8 programmable banks/presets
• Switchable input with true bypass or buffer
• Input impedance: 500 kO in buffered operation
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 70 dB
• 4 external latching-switch outputs
• MIDI Out on MIDI channel 1
• Power consumption: max. 560 mA
• Power supply: 9 V DC, regulated, minimum 600 mA, 2.1 mm center-negative
• Power supply not included
• Dimensions: 580 x 85 x 40 mm
• Weight: 1.5 kg