Hiwatt "Raw" Switch

[RyanThomas13]

The Hiwatt tone stack is a bit unique, so I just want to double check with you all. If someone wanted to bypass the tone stack on a Hiwatt amp you would connect the switch like so:

Hiwatt Raw Switch.png

[mhuss]

To a first approximation, yes. That will remove the load on the preceding stage. However, the Treble control will still work somewhat, with effectively a 220pf coupling cap at the CW end.

[RyanThomas13]

Thanks Mark,

In light of this, would this be a way to do it?

Hiwatt Raw Switch v2.png

[Dr Tony Balls]

That second way seems like a step in the right direction, however it wouldnt truly remove any tone altering part of the circuit because you still have a network of capacitors and resistors to ground. Also you're removing any coupling so you're going to have DC on the Master Volume pot.

I think the most correct way to implement is would be using a DPDT switch in a true bypass fashion like a guitar pedal. But you still need a coupling cap to filter the DC.

[RyanThomas13]

Yes I see your point.

And I like your idea, would this be a 2nd option in the same vain?

Hiwatt Raw Switch v3.png

[sluckey]

This is probably what Mark had in mind. Seems to be the most straightforward way to totally bypass the TS. I would expect the switch to pop.

[RyanThomas13]

ok thank you, that makes sense.

[beasleybodyshop]

Completely lifting out the tone stack will definitely give you a healthy gain boost, but it might be TOO raw - have you considered experimenting with a 50K-100K pot between the bottom of the tone stack and ground? Partially lifting the tone stack and making that variable might give you the gain boost you want with more refined control.

[10thTx]

I used an approach sorta similar to what Sluckey suggested. It sorta bypassed the tone stack in the sense that the signal paralleled the tone stack. I thought it turned out nice. It was relay switched and I don't remember it popping when engaged but it was some yrs ago that I built it.

with respect, 10thtx

[ViperDoc]

Completely lifting out the tone stack will definitely give you a healthy gain boost, but it might be TOO raw - have you considered experimenting with a 50K-100K pot between the bottom of the tone stack and ground? Partially lifting the tone stack and making that variable might give you the gain boost you want with more refined control.

This is the approach Dr. Z uses in his Maz 18, only he puts the variable resistor/ boost pot on the side of the pedal and inserts it as a tone circuit ground lift. That way you can alter the boost on the fly down near your foot. I used to gig with a Maz 18 and I really liked that.