Help me build an FM3 board and consider external switch(es)

[Gasp100]

My first got round with FM3 I was dead set on not using any external switches. It actually worked out well and even as a "layout novice" I was able to do quite a bit. But I did not like how I would setup a certain layout paradigm (let's say buttons 1-3 would be: toggle scene 1/2, 3/4, 5/6 but only ever be able to do that across all presets?
Is that what "per preset layouts" are for?
For example for acoustic gigs I want a layout that doesn't even use scenes at all. How does that work? or do I need to change the layout config between gigs?

Anyway, I'm thinking expanding with a good 2 button external switch would go a long way. Any recommendations?

For a board I would like to fit: Dunlop DV4 mini expression + FM3 + 2 button external switch.
I would love to keep this as compact as possible (and wish I could reuse my Pedaltrain Metro 16, but the FM3 is too long top to bottom to fit).

Any setup where I could EASILY remove the FM3 to take by itself to acoustic gigs would be sweet! Thoughts?

 

[Gasp100]

Is the Templeboard Duo 17 the gold standard? This might work and be pretty powerful but manageable from a size perspective as well.

 

[slipstream]

I think your FM3 placeholder isn't quite wide enough. The FM3 is in the temple planner. Here is my plan for the DUO 17:

 

[stdout]

Duo 17 is a popular choice. If you search this thread for ‘duo 17’ you will see lots of pics of how folks have them set up.

 

[slipstream]

For switches I like the Saturnworks "Tap Tempo Soft Touch Double with TRS jack". I got the normally open version but I think the normally closed would work just as well. Lots of people use the Mosky dual switch from Amazon as well. The Boss one in your setup would work but it takes up a little bit more real estate on the board.

And yes, "per-preset" layouts can be used for what you describe. You can also have a "per-preset override" where the preset overrides what is normally assigned to that particular switch.

As for easily removing the FM3 from the board, you could make a small spacer out of plywood and apply velcro or dual lock to that and then stick the FM3 to that. That way you have more points of contact than just the 4 rubber corners. There's a few posts in the "show us your FM3" thread with similar setups I think. You could also use a commercial product like the Zenrigs Glo Riser for the same purpose.

 

[Gasp100]

I think your FM3 placeholder isn't quite wide enough. The FM3 is in the temple planner. Here is my plan for the DUO 17:View attachment 76274

Oops, I think my dimensions are backwards. Is the template planner something on Templeboards website? I'll check it out!.

 

[Danny W.]

I bought a Mosky dual switch on EBay for under $19 shipped. Works fine.

Danny W.

 

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Oops, I think my dimensions are backwards. Is the template planner something on Templeboards website? I'll check it out!.

I believe they have a link on the templeaudio web site but they also have a direct page: templeplanner.com

 

[Gasp100]

I think your FM3 placeholder isn't quite wide enough. The FM3 is in the temple planner. Here is my plan for the DUO 17:View attachment 76274

I have the TC Spark mini as well. So you're using yours for a quick and dirty volume boost post FM3 for solos?

 

[slipstream]

I have the TC Spark mini as well. So you're using yours for a quick and dirty volume boost post FM3 for solos?

Hah oops no that's just a placeholder. It's the same physical size as the Saturnworks (or Mosky) switch. I just picked another mini-pedal to represent it. Sorry for the confusion.

 

[slipstream]

Here's a link to the rig thread I was talking about, lots of good info here:
https://forum.fractalaudio.com/threads/lets-see-those-fm3-rigs.158779/

 

[Gasp100]

I'm going to try and repurpose my Metro 16. I know there will be a slight overhang, but apparently a few guys have used it successfully. Just wondering how they have it fastened to the board.