Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.0 (19)
$85.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (3)
$85.99
Amazon
4.4 (206)
$85.99
Reverb
4.0 (14)
$79.99 New
$36.87 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (9)
$85.99

Average Price: $77

Standard/Professional

$60

$176+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "MXR M196 A/B Box". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the MXR M196 A/B Box, a versatile and essential addition to any musician's gear. This ingenious device allows you to route your instrument's audio output to two separate destinations. Whether you're a guitarist looking to switch between different amps, or a keyboardist aiming to control your sound with precision, this box has got you covered.

The MXR M196 A/B Box is as simple as it is effective. A single input feeds into three separate outputs, giving you ultimate control over your sound. The A and B outputs can be individually controlled with footswitch buttons and can be used simultaneously, allowing for rich and diverse soundscapes. LED indicators provide visual feedback, letting you know exactly where your sound is heading.

But the functionality doesn't stop there. The always-on Thru output is perfect for connecting a tuner, an amplifier, or any device that needs a continuous signal. This feature can also be a game-changer in recording sessions, allowing you to send a dry guitar signal to a DAW for re-amping.

Key Features:

  • Route your signal to 2 footswitch-controllable outputs
  • Always-on throughput for your tuner or DAW
  • LED indicators on A and B channels
  • Use for guitar amps, multi-zone PA switching, accessing tone generators and more
  • Quality build from a trusted brand in music gear
  • Provides a simple and economic signal switching solution

With the MXR M196 A/B Box, you hold the power to shape your sound and guide it precisely where you want it to go. Don't just play music, direct it.

Product specs

Type I/O Selector
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 3 x 1/4"
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Height 1.5"
Width 5"
Depth 3.75"

FAQs

What is the purpose of the MXR M196 A/B Box?

The MXR M196 A/B Box allows you to switch your instrument's signal between two separate output paths. This can be used to alternate between two amplifiers or run both simultaneously for versatile sound configurations.

How many inputs and outputs does the MXR M196 A/B Box have?

The MXR M196 A/B Box features 1 input and 3 outputs, allowing for flexible routing options in your signal chain.

Does the MXR M196 A/B Box require a power supply?

Yes, the MXR M196 A/B Box requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately.

Can the MXR M196 A/B Box be used with bass guitars?

Yes, the MXR M196 A/B Box is compatible with both electric and bass guitars, offering versatile signal routing options for different instruments.

Is the MXR M196 A/B Box suitable for live performances?

Absolutely, the MXR M196 A/B Box is ideal for live performances, allowing seamless switching between amplifiers or effect chains without unplugging cables.

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Reviews

PROS

  • Reliable for branching modulation effects in a signal chain

  • Can connect to two amps simultaneously without series clicking

  • Simple configuration for easy setup and use

  • Separate A and B switches allow for ideal signal routing flexibility

  • Solid construction, typical of MXR pedals

  • LED indicators provide clear channel status at a glance

  • Effective for running two effects chains simultaneously or switching between them

CONS

  • Generates ground loop hum when connecting certain setups

  • Lacks features to negate ground hum and tonal depletion

  • Channel A may introduce noise that affects connected devices

  • Raised battery compartment complicates pedalboard attachment with Velcro

  • Noise issues can limit its utility in specific applications

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR M196 A/B Box.

Features and functionality

  • The MXR M196 A/B Box includes a thru output, allowing for additional routing options beyond standard A/B switching.

    Source
  • Saturnworks offers custom A/B pedals with separate switches for A and B, allowing independent control of each output, a feature not commonly found in standard A/B/Y pedals.

    Source
  • It's important to have an isolation transformer to prevent ground loops when using an ABY switch like the MXR M196.

    Source
  • The Radial Big Shot ABY provides safer operation by including an isolation transformer and ground lift, beneficial for complex setups.

    Source
  • The MXR M196 can be used in reverse to accommodate two guitar inputs and one output, allowing for quick guitar changes during gigs.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Morley ABY pedals require unscrewing four screws to access the battery compartment, which only supports 9V batteries without a power supply option.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MXR M196 A/B Box can be used to switch between two guitars or run two amps simultaneously, providing versatility for different performance setups.

    Source
  • Using two amps with an ABY switch can enhance clarity and versatility, allowing one for clean tones and the other for overdrive.

    Source
  • Owners have successfully used the MXR M196 to split signals to three amps, leveraging the always-on thru output for additional routing like sending signals to a tuner.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Morley Mixer, though larger in size, provides input level control, distinguishing it from simpler A/B switchers for users needing additional volume management.

    Source
  • A user found the Radial Big Shot ABY with isolation and ground lift to be a reliable choice for reducing noise and ensuring safety.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners prefer using an ABY switch over investing in a new amp, suggesting it's a cost-effective way to achieve desired tones.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A user modified the MXR M196 with a buffered circuit to optimize long cable runs, enhancing signal integrity when connecting to amps.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 13 Ratings

5 star
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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Phil Sgrosso uses MXR M196 A/B Box

Phil Sgrosso

Guitarist

Saosin

...
Verified via Photo

phil uses an mxr a/b box on his pedal board

See how Laura Cox uses MXR M196 A/B Box

Laura Cox

Guitarist

...
Verified via Hurricanemusic

In an interview with Hurricane Music, Laura Cox discusses her pedalboard and specifically mentions using the MXR M196 A/B Box.

See how Pawel Maciwoda uses MXR M196 A/B Box

Pawel Maciwoda

Bassist

Scorpions

...
Verified via Photo

Pawel Maciwoda utilizes the MXR M196 A/B Box, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on the EBS website.

S

Sarah Vos

Singer, Guitarist

Dead Horses

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo from Grassway Organics Pizza Farm show October 16th 2021 you can see the MXR A/B pedal

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 MXR M196 A/B Box, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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A

akidcalledoutlaw

Gear IQ 1662

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