5B5-01 Free-Way Blade

^# 48

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$53.00

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Page last updated Jun 14, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated May 27, 2026.

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4.8 (107)

$54.00 $53.00 $1.00 · All time low

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "5B5-01 Free-Way Blade". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

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(SSS & HSS guitars) The 5B5-01 model delivers 10-position Free-Way switching in a Blade format which is directly interchangeable with conventional 5-way selectors. The lower bank of 5 positions delivers all the familiar pickup combinations just as normal - but the upper bank contains the missing parallel combinations (neck + bridge) and (neck + middle + bridge) together with three 'in series' combinations to provide higher output tones which you may not expect to hear from single coil pickups and which greatly expands the tonal range of any three pickup guitar. Visually undetectable when fitted, the 5B5-01 delivers incredible tonal flexibility in a completely intuitive, familiar package. Perfect for studio sessions or live performances, this switch is all about flexibility and creativity, providing you with the tools to craft your unique sound.

Key Features:

10-way switch in blade format
Fits directly in place of a standard 5-way switch
Two banks: Lower bank for conventional switching, upper bank for parallel combinations
Includes 3 "In Series" combinations for increased output
Perfect for players seeking expanded tonal options without extra modifications

Product specs

Available since	November 2018
Type	Switcher
Colour	Black

Videos

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Georg Figél

10-way Switch | Every Pickup Wiring Combination | Freeway Switch Demo

Georg Figél

10 Amazing Strat Tones - Six String Supplies & Free-Way 10 5B5-01 Blade Switch

Matt's GA&P

Freeway Switch for Strat (5B5-01) | Review & Demo

Sergio Serra Music

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PROS

Transforms guitar with 10 unique pickup combinations, adding versatility.
Provides warm, thick tones similar to expensive humbuckers.
Offers Tele-like tones without needing a new guitar.
Maintains classic Strat tones while adding new sonic possibilities.
Solid build and feel, seamlessly integrates with existing guitar design.
Easy installation with detailed diagrams on the company website.
No additional switches needed for full functionality.
Reduces hum and noise with series positions.
Allows for creative wiring options and configurations.
Enhances recording versatility with expanded tonal range.

CONS

May require minor guitar cavity modification for installation.
Potential switching noise when moving between positions.
Missing promised switch tip knobs in some shipments.
Not suitable for HSS configurations without adjustment.
Occasional glitch with switch getting stuck in positions.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 5B5-01 Free-Way Blade.

Features and functionality

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The Free-Way Blade 5B5-01 provides unique electrical combinations, enhancing tonal variety without being gimmicky.
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The 5B5-01 Free-Way Blade is ideal for standard Strat pickup configurations in positions 1-5, distinguishing it from the 5B5-02 model.
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Build quality

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The switch design is more prone to wear and breakage, suggesting careful use, especially in high-demand applications.
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Use cases and applications

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Recommended primarily for studio guitars due to potential durability issues rather than for touring instruments.
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The switch can be repurposed if installed incorrectly, but compatibility with non-split humbuckers is limited.
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Mods and upgrades

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Some users prefer standard switches with CTS push/pull pots for more robust non-standard wiring options.
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Users note that the 5B5-01 switch is unsuitable for unsplittable humbuckers, suggesting an SSS switch for optimal performance.
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Coil splitting for humbuckers without four conductor wiring involves DIY modifications, with resources available on Fralin Pickups and Premier Guitar.
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Software and compatibility

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Numerous wiring diagrams are available for the Free-Way Blade, providing customization options for various setups.
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Setup and maintenance

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Connecting a humbucker with only one wire requires treating it like a SSS configuration.
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User experience

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Users report partial success in wiring humbuckers to the Free-Way Blade when acknowledging the single wire as coaxial (signal and ground).
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Pricing and availability

Price History

Description

Product specs

Videos

Reviews

PROS

CONS

Owner Insights

Features and functionality

Build quality

Use cases and applications

Mods and upgrades

Software and compatibility

Setup and maintenance

User experience

Genre Usage

More Miscellaneous Guitar Parts

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