relay bypass

Relay bypass is a switching system in effects pedals that uses a relay, often operated by a microcontroller, instead of a traditional mechanical 3PDT bypass switch¹². It replaces true bypass 3PDT switches and is described as a more reliable and silent switching system¹. Microcontroller-operated versions can include a subtle mute circuit that reduces the pop induced by mechanical switching². It is commonly paired with soft touch or momentary footswitches³⁴⁵. Relay bypass appears both as a DIY module for pedal building and as the bypass type in commercial pedals and effects loops⁶⁷⁸.