Octa-Switch MK3
- Eight true-bypass relay loops with complete signal isolation for each pedal, delivering transparent tone preservation and silent switching across your entire pedalboard.
- Instant preset switching via hardware-based DIP switch programming delivers fixed, reliable presets that engage multiple effects simultaneously with a single footswitch.
- Dedicated global bypass switch removes all loops instantly, while individual LEDs and bank indicators provide clear visual status even on dark stages.
- Two external switching outputs enable amp channel switching, multi-amp control, and integration with external devices beyond standard pedals.
- Switchable input buffer accommodates various rig setups, with stereo output support for advanced routing without additional gear required
All about Carl Martin Octa-Switch MK3
When we designed Octa-Switch MK3 together with Thomas Guldmann, the goal was simple: give players full control over complex pedalboards without tap-dancing, menu diving, or digital abstraction. We wanted instant access, absolute reliability, and a signal path that stays transparent no matter which pedals you use.
Octa-Switch MK3 is built around eight true-bypass relay loops. Each of your pedals lives in its own loop, completely isolated when not in use. Using the DIP switches for each bank, we decide exactly which pedals are active in each preset. Step on a single footswitch, and an entire combination of effects engages at once — clean, silent, and repeatable every time.
Visual feedback is immediate. Each active loop has its own LED, and each preset bank is clearly indicated, so we always know exactly what’s happening underfoot — even on dark stages.
To keep the rig flexible, we included a dedicated global Bypass switch. With one press, all eight loops are removed from the signal path, giving us the pure, unaffected sound of the amplifier. It’s the fastest possible way to reset the rig mid-song or between sections.
Octa-Switch MK3 also includes two external switching outputs. These can be used to switch amp channels, control multiple amplifiers, or interact with other external devices — making the unit suitable for far more than just pedals.
The input buffer is switchable, allowing us to run either buffered or unbuffered input depending on cable length, pedal choice, and personal preference. The output is stereo, supporting more advanced rigs without additional routing gear.
Programming is intentionally hardware-based. Once the DIP switches are set, the presets are fixed, predictable, and immune to accidental changes. For live use, we recommend covering the DIP switches after setup — not because it’s fragile, but because reliability matters.
Octa-Switch MK3 is housed in a solid metal enclosure and powered either by batteries or an external regulated power supply. It’s a professional loop switcher built for players who want maximum control with minimum complication.
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FAQ
Quick answers about this pedal — shipping, power, use-cases and more.
What is the Octa-Switch MK3?
The Octa-Switch MK3 is a programmable true-bypass loop switcher designed to manage complex pedalboards with maximum simplicity and signal integrity. It allows you to connect up to eight pedals in individual loops and recall preset combinations instantly with a single footswitch press. Instead of tap-dancing on multiple pedals, you step on one switch and activate an entire signal chain. It’s built for players who want consistent sounds, clean routing, and fast changes live—without digital modeling or tone coloration.
How does the Octa-Switch MK3 work in practice?
Each of the eight footswitches represents a preset. For every preset, you choose which of the eight loops are active and in what order they run. Once programmed, pressing a preset footswitch instantly engages the selected loops via relay-based true bypass switching. The signal stays fully analog and untouched except for the pedals you choose to include. This makes it ideal for players who rely on multiple gain stages, modulation, or time-based effects and want total control over combinations.
Is the signal path fully analog and true bypass?
Yes. The Octa-Switch MK3 is fully analog and uses high-quality gold relay switching. When a loop is bypassed, it is completely removed from the signal path—no buffers, no tone suck. This preserves your guitar’s natural tone even on large boards. The only thing shaping your sound is the pedals you intentionally activate.
Can I change pedal order between presets?
No—the physical order of the loops is fixed (Loop 1 → Loop 8). However, you can choose which loops are active in each preset. If you need changing pedal order per preset, that requires a matrix-based router. The Octa-Switch MK3 instead focuses on reliability, sound purity, and ease of use, which is why many players prefer it over more complex digital routers.
Is it suitable for live use?
Absolutely. It’s built like a tank, with heavy-duty footswitches, metal chassis, and silent relay switching. Once programmed, it’s incredibly stable—no menus, no screens, no boot time. Many touring players use it because it removes human error on stage: one press, correct sound every time.
Who is the Octa-Switch MK3 best suited for?
Guitarists with medium-to-large pedalboards who want fast preset recall without compromising tone. It’s especially popular among players using multiple overdrives, boost stages, and time-based effects where consistent combinations are critical. If you value analog tone but want digital-style convenience, this is the sweet spot.
