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Average Price: $298
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Description
Not everyone needs a fully programmable one-touch switching system, however we all want to sound better. There comes a point where using multiple effects pedals chained together can introduce issues, including signal loss and tone-suck. QuarterMaster puts each of your pedals in its own separate true-bypass loop so it stays out of your signal path when you're not using it. The result is clearer tone with more integrity, preserving the sound of your individual pedals and also your favourite guitars and amps.
The QuarterMaster QMX also has a very clever ace up its sleeve…
Each loop has a push button next to the loop return that gives you the option to turn any standard loop into a Flip Flop loop. In standard mode, loops turn on and off independently: you turn them on and off with the switch, in any combination.
Flip Flop mode enables an element of one-touch switching. If you have two loops in Flip Flop mode, for example, selecting one will turn the other off… while all your standard-mode loops remain stackable, on/off as usual.
This can be especially useful if you use a number of different drive pedals, for example, that you never use together. With loops in Flip Flop mode, selecting one turns all the other Flip Flop loops off. Your standard loops remain as they are.
Aside from the tone preserving and practicality benefits of QuarterMaster, users have been telling us that it's a great way to keep our beloved pedals (and their switches) in great condition. No need to worry about QMX in that respect – our own-design OptoKick footswitches are incredibly tough and reliable.
Even if you're running a small board, QuarterMaster will make your playing life easier and your tone better!
Product specs
| Brand | GigRig |
| Model | QuarterMaster QMX-6 |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2015 - 2025 |
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Categories | Controller, Expression and Volume Pedals |
| Color Family | Black |
FAQs
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How many loops does the TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 support?
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TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 supports up to six loops, allowing you to connect and control multiple effects pedals in your signal chain efficiently.
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Can the TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 be used with any type of pedal?
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Yes, the QMX-6 is designed to work with any standard effects pedal, making it a versatile choice for guitarists looking to streamline their pedalboard setup.
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Does the TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 require a power supply?
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The QMX-6 itself does not require a power supply to operate, as it is a passive switcher. However, any pedals connected to it will still require their own power.
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What is the primary benefit of using the TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6?
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The primary benefit is the ability to organize and manage multiple pedals, reducing tap-dancing and preserving your signal integrity by isolating pedals when not in use.
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Can the TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 be used in a live performance setting?
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Absolutely, the QMX-6 is ideal for live performances as it allows quick and seamless switching between different pedal combinations, enhancing your on-stage flexibility.
Videos
TheGigRig
TheGigRig QuarterMaster QMX – Official Video
Reviews
PROS
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Eliminates need for pedal tap dancing
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Preserves tone quality, unlike cheaper loopers
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Solid build and low noise operation
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Compact design saves pedalboard space
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Simplifies pedal switching
CONS
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High price for a non-programmable unit
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Lacks "flip-flop" feature for more flexibility
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Some users report noise issues, contradicting others
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about The GigRig Quartermaster QMX-6.
User experience
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Owners report noticeable improvements in tone, clarity, and volume after using the GigRig Quartermaster, with pedals sounding "louder, stronger, and more defined."
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Features and functionality
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The Quartermaster allows for one-step switching with its "flip flop" feature, enabling seamless transitions between distortion pedals without manual deactivation of others.
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Setup and maintenance
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Rearranging pedals on the Quartermaster requires unplugging them from the switcher, unlike the programmable G2 or G3 models that offer flexible order changes.
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It's noted that the Quartermaster can significantly reduce signal chain noise, even for guitars prone to 60-cycle hum, enhancing overall sound quality.
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Daisy chaining digital and dirt pedals together can amplify noise; isolating digital pedals on their own power loop is recommended to reduce hiss.
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Use cases and applications
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The switcher is reported to stabilize pedal setups in harsh environments, aiding reliability during gigs by simplifying troubleshooting and lead swaps.
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The Quartermaster QMX is considered effective for synths and hardware inserts, offering full-range bypass without cab simulation, which helps manage noise in studio settings.
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Mods and upgrades
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Modding a 90s USA Big Muff to true bypass is suggested, requiring just a switch change for better transparency.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings
209
Artist usage
Add artist
Somewhat visible in this Instagram video in the bottom row of the pedal board. Although not crystal clear, it is believed that this is the GigRig Quartermaster QMX 6, based on the placement of the logo on the pedal, as well as the colour of the unit and the layout of the switches.
The EffectsBay website shared some pictures posted to Reeves' Facebook page. The image showing his guitar pedalboards features a QMX 6 pedal switcher.
Jim James utilizes TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 on his pedalboard, as confirmed by a detailed breakdown provided by John Bohlinger in the "My Morning Jacket Rig Rundown" by Premier Guitar. This setup allows him to efficiently manage the various effects pedals in his collection.
Can be seen at 0:03 https://youtu.be/kXmbO6jUs_Y?feature=shared and at 0:51 in https://youtu.be/dGqs1LsXnM0?feature=shared, both from the previous day gig in Dallas, Tx Photo of Theo Ellis’ pedalboard is from the next day (1604’22) gig at Houston’s House of Blues
Sterenberg uses the Gigrig Quartermaster to control effects that lack footswitches and upper level effects on his board. From his website:
"To remedy this, I resorted back to my old ways, using the pedals as they are for the front row (my most used pedals), and using the looper next in the signal chain for the back row. This hybrid setup gives me the spacing and feel I am after, while still reaping some of the benefits of the relay-switching system."
Ethan Ives uses TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 switch effects pedal, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo from Instagram direct messages.
Tom Blankenship, bassist for My Morning Jacket, uses TheGigRig Quartermaster QMX-6 to manage his effects, as confirmed in the "My Morning Jacket Rig Rundown" by John Bohlinger for Premier Guitar.
In this Instagram post, Corey Congilio posts his pedalboard and in the caption says:
This is my first ever board with a Daniel Steinhardt QMX6 switcher too! So far, no complaints!
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use The GigRig Quartermaster QMX-6, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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