The Whirlwind Selector is an instrument switch from Whirlwind, a channel-switching device that moves a guitar signal between two paths. Whirlwind describes it as "the only A/B A+B box that provides totally noiseless switching between channels", using patented noiseless optical switching, and says it functions as a 2 to 1 or 1 to 2 switch1. In practice that means one guitar into two amps, or two guitars into one input, with no pop or click when you stomp.
What it does and how it is controlled
The Selector carries two footswitches and two LEDs. The A/B switch, when pressed, toggles the I/O port between "A" and "B". The BOTH switch engages the A and B channels simultaneously; pressing it again returns to the channel indicated by the flashing LED. Whirlwind notes that BOTH is not recommended when using 2-in, 1-out connections1.
The LEDs indicate which jack is selected for output or input. When BOTH is engaged, one LED flashes and one is fully on, and toggling A/B alternates which LED is flashing1.
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| A/B footswitch | Toggles the I/O port between "A" and "B" when pressed1 |
| BOTH footswitch | Engages A and B simultaneously; press again to return to the flashing-LED channel; not recommended for 2-in, 1-out use1 |
| LEDs | Show which jack is selected; with BOTH engaged, one flashes and one is fully on1 |
Power and jacks
On the Selector are three 1/4" jacks, one 2.1mm DC jack (center negative), two LEDs and two footswitches. The I/O port jack plus the A and B jacks are usable as inputs or outputs, depending on whether you run 1-in/2-out or 2-in/1-out1.
Power comes from either a 9V battery or a DC adapter. Whirlwind specifies a 9-volt alkaline type battery, clipped to the battery clip after removing 4 screws from the bottom1.
Older Selector models have a 3.5mm TS power jack with tip positive polarity and use the Whirlwind DC adapter T401-ND. The current model has a 2.1mm DC jack with center negative polarity. The two versions are not interchangeable with the same adapter1.
How it compares
The Selector sits in a crowded field of A/B and A/B/Y boxes. The Morley ABC Pro Selector uses relay switching, which Morley says minimizes switch noise and prevents bleed, and runs on one 9V battery or an optional Morley 9V adapter2. Morley's ABY Pro Selector offers silent switching and the same battery or adapter options3. The Voodoo Lab Amp Selector ABY takes a different approach with three modes: A/B/Y for classic switch and blend operation, Direct Access for independent on/off control of each output, and an exclusive mode4. Builders such as American Loopers make a range of line selector switchers, from a simple A/B box to an A/B/C Line Selector Switcher that selects A, B or C5.
What sets the Selector apart, per Whirlwind, is the optical switching: where mechanical and relay designs break the connection physically, the optical circuit is what the company credits for the totally noiseless switching between channels1. For more on this family of tools, see Switching Pedals.
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Questions
Does the Whirlwind Selector run on a battery?
Yes. Whirlwind says the Selector operates with a 9V battery, and specifies a 9-volt alkaline type battery clipped to the battery clip after removing 4 screws from the bottom. It can also be powered from a DC adapter instead, so a battery is not required for operation.
What polarity does the Whirlwind Selector power jack use?
It depends on the model. Current Selectors use a 2.1mm DC jack with center negative polarity. Older models have a 3.5mm TS power jack with tip positive polarity and use the Whirlwind DC adapter T401-ND. Check which version you have before connecting any adapter.
What does the BOTH switch do on the Whirlwind Selector?
The BOTH footswitch engages the A and B channels at the same time, so both outputs are live. Pressing it again returns you to the channel indicated by the flashing LED. Whirlwind notes that BOTH is not recommended when using 2-in, 1-out connections.
Can the Whirlwind Selector work as an A/B box and a splitter?
Yes. Whirlwind describes it as functioning as a 2 to 1 or 1 to 2 switch. In one direction it selects between two sources into one input, and in the other it sends one source to two outputs. The three 1/4-inch jacks work as inputs or outputs depending on the configuration.
How do I change the battery in a Whirlwind Selector?
Whirlwind specifies a 9-volt alkaline battery. Remove the 4 screws from the bottom of the unit, then clip the new battery onto the battery clip inside. The Selector can also run from a DC adapter, which avoids battery changes altogether.
Sources (5)
- SELECTOR® INSTRUMENT SWITCH, Whirlwind Music Distributors, 2026
- Gold Series ABC Pro Selector, Morley
- Gold Series ABY Pro Selector, Morley
- Amp Selector ABY Isolated Output Switch/Blend, Voodoo Lab, 2026-09-30
- American Loopers A/B/C Line Selector Switcher, American Loopers (www.americanloopers.com)
