As musicians, we know the importance of a good pedalboard power supply. It’s the backbone of our effects setup, providing clean and stable power to our pedals. A reliable power supply can make a world of difference in sound quality and durability.
Pedalboard power supplies come in various shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose: to keep our pedals running smoothly and to avoid hum or noise in our signal chain. This makes selecting the right one a vital step when building our pedalboards.
When searching for the perfect power supply, essential factors to consider are the number of outputs, voltage options, and overall build quality. Ensuring that the power supply can handle all our pedals and accommodate our needs is crucial for a hassle-free playing experience.
So, let’s take a look at the best pedalboard power supplies options for our rig. We’ve researched and tested some top choices that cater to various budgets and requirements, making it simple for you to find the perfect fit.
Types of Pedalboard Power Supplies
Linear vs. Switching Power Supplies:
Linear power supplies are old school, but still loved by some. They provide clean and noise-free power, which is a big plus. However, they can be bulky and heavy, making your pedalboard less portable. Switching power supplies, on the other hand, are more compact and lightweight. They might introduce some noise into your signal, but high-quality ones can minimize this.
Isolated vs. Non-isolated Power Supplies:
Isolated power supplies offer individual power sources for each pedal, ensuring clean power and no ground loop issues. They are more expensive, but worth it for bigger or more sophisticated pedalboards. Non-isolated power supplies are cheaper and share the power between your pedals. This can cause some noise, especially if you mix digital and analog pedals.
Daisy Chain Power Supplies:
A daisy chain power supply is a budget-friendly option for powering a few pedals. It consists of a single adapter with multiple outputs, which are connected in series. Be careful here – if one pedal draws too much power or malfunctions, it might affect the others. Also, make sure your total current draw is within the adapter’s limits.
In summary, consider your pedalboard’s size, budget, and noise sensitivity when choosing a power supply. Each type has its pros and cons, so weigh them carefully before making a decision.
Best Pedalboard Power Supplies
We’ve compiled a list of the top pedalboard power supplies for your musical journey. Enjoy!
CIOKS DC7 Power Supply
Count on CIOKS DC7 for silent, versatile power supply for your pedalboard.
Pros
- 7 isolated DC outlets with adjustable voltage
- Compact size with a 1-inch profile
- USB and auxiliary outlets
Cons
- Slightly pricey
- May require additional cables for some pedals
- Expansion options not included
The CIOKS DC7 stands out for its customizable power capacities, fitting both major and niche pedals. With seven isolated DC outlets, you can adjust the voltage to power your various pedals seamlessly. Talk about versatility!
Due to its tiny 1-inch profile, it’s perfect for conserving space on your pedalboard. Plus, it even has a USB and a 24-volt auxiliary outlet, making it super handy for other uses too. Let’s not forget the power meter that helps you keep track of its performance. A true game-changer!
Though it’s a bit pricey, we believe the quality and capabilities of CIOKS DC7 make it worth the investment. Just remember that you might need to buy additional cables for certain pedals. And if you need more outputs, get ready to purchase extra expansion options separately. But overall, the CIOKS DC7 is a reliable choice that ensures your pedal power supply remains noise-free. So yeah, we think it pretty much rocks.
Truetone Stage And Studio Equipment Case (CS12USJ)
Grab this power supply for its isolated outputs, versatile voltage options, and noiseless performance!
Pros
- 12 fully isolated outputs
- 5 voltage options for any effect pedal
- Cutting-edge noiseless technology
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Bulky size
- Not discontinued by the manufacturer
As musicians, we know that pedalboard power supplies are essential. That’s why we recommend the Truetone Stage And Studio Equipment Case (CS12USJ) for your board. It has 12 fully isolated outputs, making it versatile and efficient.
The 5 voltage options (4-9Vdc, 12 Vdc, 18 Vdc, 9Vdc, and 9Vac) work well for almost any effect pedal out there. You can use this power supply for various setups without any worry. We love how it can power both 9V and 18V pedals.
But best of all, this power supply uses cutting-edge technology instead of transformers, giving you noiseless operation with loads of power. You won’t worry about annoying hums while playing live or recording. Great, right?
Of course, it’s not perfect. Some may find it pricey or bulky in size. But we believe the pros outweigh the cons. So go ahead and power your pedalboard with the Truetone Stage And Studio Equipment Case (CS12USJ). Trust us, it’s a wise investment.
MXR DC Brick Power Supply
We recommend the MXR DC Brick Power Supply as a reliable and compact choice for pedalboard power.
Pros
- Can power up to 10 pedals
- Eight 9v outputs and two 18v outputs
- Short-circuit protection with LEDs
Cons
- No 12v output option
- Cables may be too short for some setups
- Not the cheapest option
The MXR DC Brick Power Supply packs quite a punch for its small size, easily powering up to 10 pedals. If your setup requires a mix of 9v and 18v outputs, this power supply has you covered with eight 9v outputs and two 18v outputs.
The built-in short-circuit protection LEDs for the 9v outputs are a thoughtful touch, making identifying any issues a breeze. This power supply also has overload protection, giving you peace of mind while jamming out.
One downside to the MXR DC Brick Power Supply is that it doesn’t offer a 12v output possibility. So, if any of your pedals need a 12v connection, you might need to explore other power supply options. Additionally, some users may find the included cables too short for their specific pedalboard setup. And while it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there, its performance and reliability make it worth the investment for many musicians.
In conclusion, the MXR DC Brick Power Supply is a great choice for most pedalboards. With its versatile power output options, solid build quality, and helpful protection features, this power supply has the power and reliability to keep your effects sounding their best.
Gator Cases Pedal Power Supply
This power supply is perfect for guitarists seeking versatility and efficient power management.
Pros
- 8 isolated outputs
- Adjustable voltage
- Direct mounting to pedalboard
Cons
- Limited to 1600mA total current
- Some reported hum with digital pedals
- Not suitable for high current pedals
It’s time we chat about Gator Cases Pedal Power Supply. For starters, it offers 8 isolated outputs to power your effects pedals. It means less noise, which is super important for a clean guitar sound.
Another awesome feature is the adjustable voltage. With the simple turn of a knob or flip of a switch, you can get the exact power setting you need. Plus, optimizing power ensures the best performance from your pedals.
We also love that you can directly mount this power supply to your pedalboard. It keeps things neat and tidy, so you won’t trip over cables during your gigs. Trust us, we’ve been there, and it’s not fun.
However, be aware that the maximum output current is 1600mA. If you have lots of pedals or high current digital ones, this supply might not work for you. Some users have reported hum issues with digital pedals, possibly suggesting not complete isolation.
In conclusion, Gator Cases Pedal Power Supply is a versatile and efficient solution for managing your guitar effects. Its adjustable voltage and isolated outputs make it a great choice for most pedalboard setups. Just keep the current limitations in mind when planning your pedal power needs.
Cioks SOL Pedal Power Supply
This power supply is a great choice for small to medium-sized pedalboards with power-hungry pedals.
Pros
- Compact design
- 5 isolated 9V-18V outlets
- Four switchable voltages
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Only 5 outlets
- Not the lightest option
If you’re a musician with a growing pedal collection, the Cioks SOL Pedal Power Supply might just be the perfect fit. It’s compact and sleek, making it easy to fit on most pedalboards.
We love that it offers four switchable voltages (9V, 12V, 15V, and 18V), which allows you to power even the most demanding pedals. With 660mA at 9V DC per outlet, you’ll have plenty of juice to keep your pedals running smoothly.
One downside is that it only has five outlets, so if you have a larger pedalboard or plan to expand your collection, you might need to look for a power supply with more outlets. However, the isolated outlets minimize noise and ensure clean performance.
Overall, the Cioks SOL Pedal Power Supply is a reliable and versatile addition to any small to medium-sized pedalboard. Despite its slightly higher price point and limited outlets, its performance, compact design, and switchable voltages make it an excellent choice for power-hungry pedals.
Strymon Zuma 9-Output Pedal Power Supply
You’ll love this power supply for its high-quality performance and noise elimination.
Pros
- 9 high-current, fully isolated outputs
- Versatile voltage options (9V, 12V, 18V)
- Compact and easily fits under most pedalboards
Cons
- Pricey investment
- Some included cables may be too short
- Not beginner-friendly
As musicians, we understand the need for a reliable power supply for our pedalboards. That’s why we recommend the Strymon Zuma 9-Output Pedal Power Supply. This beast offers nine high-current, individually isolated outputs for ultimate performance.
One cool feature of this power supply is the variety of voltage options. Choose between 9V, 12V, or 18V DC outputs for maximum compatibility with various pedals. We especially appreciate the compact design that easily fits under most pedalboards, which is always a plus for us.
However, we do recognize that the Zuma is quite an investment. But trust us when we say, the excellent noise elimination and overall quality are worth it. The only downside is that some of the included cables might be too short for larger pedalboards. Also, this power supply might not be the most beginner-friendly option.
Overall, the Strymon Zuma 9-Output Pedal Power Supply is perfect for seasoned musicians looking for top-notch performance and an expandable system. It’s a fantastic investment for your pedalboard that’ll enhance the sound and dynamics of your music.
Strymon Ojai R30 Power Supply
The Strymon Ojai R30 is a reliable pedal power supply option, offering versatility and slim design.
Pros
- Powers up to 5 pedals
- Multiple output options (9V, 12V, 18V)
- Compact and noise-free
Cons
- Pricey compared to others
- Adapter feels lightly constructed
- May need extension pack for larger pedalboards
The Ojai R30 guitar pedal power supply from Strymon packs quite a punch for its size. We’ve found it to be an excellent solution if you’re dealing with space constraints on your pedalboard. Its slim dimensions make it easy to fit underneath even the tightest setups.
One of the best aspects of the Ojai R30 is its flexibility in power outputs. With three 9V, 500mA outputs and two switchable 9V, 12V, or 18V 500mA outputs, it can accommodate a wide variety of pedals. Plus, the dual-isolated outputs ensure that your pedals will operate without any pesky noise interference.
While the price may be a bit steep for some, the overall quality and versatility of the Ojai R30 make it a strong contender for the “best pedalboard power supply” title. However, for larger pedalboards, you may find the need to purchase an extension pack for additional power. And although the main unit is compact and durable, the adapter might feel a bit flimsy to some users. But don’t let that be a deal-breaker; this power supply is worth considering for your pedalboard setup.
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus
Get this reliable, isolated power supply for a noise-free pedalboard.
Pros
- Universal compatibility
- 8 isolated outputs
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- 120 volts only
- Bulky design
We’ve used the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus and can confidently say it’s worth the investment. Yes, it’s pricey, but it’s a one-stop solution for powering your pedals with minimal noise. It’s built like a tank, so you know it’ll last for years.
The Pedal Power 2 Plus offers 8 isolated outputs, which means no more hissing or static sounds. Your pedalboard will sound cleaner and more professional. Plus, it’s compatible with all types of Boss pedal effects, so no need to worry about getting additional adapters.
However, there are a few downsides to consider. The device only operates at 120 volts, so you’ll need a step up/down transformer for use in other countries. And if your pedalboard is tight on space, its bulky design might be an issue.
Overall, the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus is an excellent investment if you’re serious about your sound and want a reliable power supply for your pedalboard.
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO
We highly recommend this power supply for its compatibility, versatility, and performance.
Pros
- Powers various digital effects
- 12 isolated output sections
- Internal thermometer keeps the unit cool
Cons
- Expensive
- Mainly designed for 120 volts
- Can be overkill for small pedalboards
The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO is ideal for large pedalboards with standard 9V pedals and high current digital pedals. This power supply is perfect for you if you own pedals from Strymon, Eventide, Line 6, or other high current digital pedal brands. Additionally, it works well with 9-volt battery stompboxes.
One thing that sets this power supply apart is its 12 completely isolated, filtered, and regulated output sections. Say goodbye to ground loops and hum issues. The Pedal Power MONDO also features an internal thermometer, controlling a silent fan that keeps the unit cool under extreme heat conditions.
Although the price can seem steep, the quality and performance are worth the investment. Keep in mind that this power supply is designed mainly for 120 volts, so using a step up/down transformer might be required for some countries. Overall, the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO is a versatile and dependable power supply for musicians with a large variety of pedals.
Voodoo Lab PedalPower 3 PLUS
You’ll love this power supply for its clean, noise-free performance and expandability.
Pros
- 12 isolated 500mA DC outputs
- X-LINK expansion ports for adding outputs
- 100-240VAC operation for international touring
Cons
- Expensive compared to budget options
- No included doubler cable for 18V/24V pedals
- Possible software glitches (rare)
Finally, a power supply that delivers on its promise for noise-free performance! We just tried the Voodoo Lab PedalPower 3 PLUS, and it didn’t disappoint. The 12 isolated outputs ensure there’s no ground hum or unwanted interaction between pedals, while the X-LINK expansion ports allow you to add more outputs as your pedalboard grows.
The lightweight, low-profile design means you can easily mount it to any pedalboard, and with 100-240VAC operation, you can take it on international tours without a hitch.
Though the price is on the higher side, investing in the PedalPower 3 PLUS will save you headaches caused by cheaper, unreliable alternatives. Our only gripe is that it doesn’t include a doubler cable for 18V/24V pedals, which means you’ll need to purchase one separately if needed. Other than that, we highly recommend the Voodoo Lab PedalPower 3 PLUS for its excellent performance and expandability.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Guitar Pedal Power Supply
Number of Outputs:
We all know that we need enough outputs for our pedals. But let’s not forget about future proofing:
- For beginners: 4-6 outputs suffice
- For seasoned players: 8-10 outputs are adequate
It’s better to have extra outputs than not enough!
Power Requirements:
Next, we should consider power requirements. Our pedals consume different current (mA) levels:
- Low current: under 100 mA
- High current: above 100 mA
Simply put, match your pedals’ current needs with the power supply’s offerings.
Isolated Outputs:
When it comes to reducing noise, isolated outputs are essential. For a quieter rig, opt for them. They help by:
- Preventing ground loops
- Eliminating noise from digital pedals
These features are worth the investment!
Universal Switching:
Guitarists love to tour, don’t we? Hence, universal switching is beneficial:
- Adjust voltage for international use
- Avoid extra kits or adapters
This feature ensures a hassle-free touring experience.
Size & Weight:
Pedalboards can be heavy, so it’s crucial to carefully choose the power supply size and weight:
- Small & light: ideal for portability
- Large & heavy: better for studio setups
Make the choice based on your playing style and preferences.
Durability and Build Quality:
Finally, we must consider durability and build quality. Good investment means reliability:
- Metal casing for protection
- High-quality materials used
Choose wisely, and your power supply will last for years!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a guitar pedal power supply?
A guitar pedal power supply is a device that we use to supply power to our guitar effects pedals. It converts AC power from the wall socket into DC power required by most pedals.
How do pedal board power supplies work?
Pedalboard power supplies work by taking AC power from the wall and converting it into smaller voltages. This clean, stable DC power helps keep our pedals running smoothly and quietly.
How many pedals can I power with a single unit?
The number of pedals you can power with a single unit depends on the power supply’s specifications. It’s crucial to check the total current draw of your pedals and to compare it to the power supply’s maximum output.
Does the voltage matter for pedal power supplies?
Yes, the voltage matters for pedal power supplies. Each pedal will have its own voltage requirements. We need to make sure the power supply can deliver the correct voltage for each pedal to avoid damage.
How to mount a pedal power supply on a pedalboard?
Mounting a pedal power supply on a pedalboard can vary based on the board’s design. Some pedalboards have designated spots for power supplies. For others, we might use metal brackets or Velcro to secure the power supply.
How to use a daisy chain to power guitar pedals?
To use a daisy chain, we connect one end to the power supply and plug the other ends into our pedals. This lets us power multiple pedals from a single power supply output. Just make sure the total current draw doesn’t exceed the output limits.