The Lehle Module SW-L is a compact true bypass switching unit from Lehle, built for pedal builders and modders rather than as a stompbox you step on. Instead of the standard 3PDT latching footswitch, which Lehle describes as unreliable and noisy, it routes the signal through a gold-plated contact relay, with an active pop suppression function controlled by an intelligent microcontroller circuit1. Paired with the Lehle Switch BTN momentary switch, Lehle positions it as a drop-in replacement for mechanical switching in a pedal or DIY project1.
What it replaces and how it switches
The module's job is to take over the bypass switching a 3PDT switch normally does inside a pedal. Lehle says the relay design lets it switch "even faster than mechanical switches, noise-free and without wear"1. The gold-plated relay contacts are what Lehle credits with lossless signal routing1, and the microcontroller circuit handles pop suppression, the click you can hear when a mechanical switch disconnects1.
It offers three operating modes, set to match the external switch you pair it with1:
- Latching: the switch toggles between states and stays where you leave it
- Momentary: the module responds only while the switch is held
- Mixed Mode: a combination of the two behaviors
The module is one of a family of Lehle switching modules, alongside the Lehle Module SW, Lehle Module SW-OF and Lehle Module SW-OFL.
Size, leads and build
Lehle describes the module as smaller than a 9-volt battery1, and the spec sheet dimensions bear that out: 40 mm long, 25 mm wide and 14 mm high overall without cables, at 34 g2. It comes fully molded in a shielded metal can with leads1, and the leads themselves are specified as AWG26 7/34 halogen-free cable with tinned endings, 100 mm long2. The unit complies with RoHS II under Directive 2011/65/EU2.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 40 mm [1.6"]2 |
| Width | 25 mm [0.98"]2 |
| Height (without cables) | 14 mm [0.55"]2 |
| Weight | 34 g [1.2 oz]2 |
| Cable length | 100 mm [3.94"]2 |
| Max level | 12 dBu2 |
Power
The module's spec sheet does not state a power requirement beyond its 9V supply2. Its switching is handled by a gold-plated contact relay, which Lehle describes as providing lossless signal routing2.
The spec sheet gives two different current draw figures, 7 mA and 21 mA, without explanation. If you are sizing a power supply for a build using this module, allow for the higher figure.
Where it is made and what it costs
The Module SW-L is made in Germany and is currently available1. Lehle's list price is €39.901.
Videos
LehleSwitcher
Sources (2)
- LEHLE MODULE SW-L, Lehle GmbH
- LEHLE MODULE SW Datasheet V1.0.cdr, Lehle GmbH, 2019-09-17
