What is a guitar pedal AC power supply?
A guitar pedal AC power supply is a device that provides power to multiple guitar pedals. It is a convenient way to power your pedals without having to use multiple power adapters. Guitar pedal AC power supplies come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can provide different amounts of power. Some power supplies can even provide isolated power, which can help to reduce noise and interference between pedals.
Editor’s Note: Guitar pedal AC power supplies are an essential piece of gear for any guitarist who uses multiple pedals. They can help to keep your pedals organized and powered, and they can also help to improve the sound of your pedals.
We’ve done the analysis, dug through the information, and put together this guitar pedal AC power supply guide to help you make the right decision.
Key differences or Key takeaways:
| Feature | Isolated vs. Non-Isolated | Number of Outputs | Current Capacity | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isolated | Provides separate power for each pedal, reducing noise and interference | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Non-Isolated | Shares power between pedals, can cause noise and interference | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Number of Outputs | Determines how many pedals can be powered | Varies | N/A | N/A |
| Current Capacity | Determines how much power each pedal can draw | Varies | Varies | N/A |
| Voltage | Determines the voltage that is supplied to the pedals | Varies | N/A | Varies |
Transition to main article topics:
- Types of guitar pedal AC power supplies
- How to choose the right guitar pedal AC power supply
- Benefits of using a guitar pedal AC power supply
- Conclusion
1. Types
Guitar pedal AC power supplies come in two main types: isolated and non-isolated. Isolated power supplies provide separate power for each pedal, while non-isolated power supplies share power between pedals.
Isolated power supplies are more expensive than non-isolated power supplies, but they offer several advantages. First, isolated power supplies can help to reduce noise and interference between pedals. This is because each pedal is getting its own dedicated power source, so there is no chance for the power from one pedal to interfere with the power from another pedal.
Second, isolated power supplies can help to protect your pedals from damage. If one pedal shorts out, it will not affect the other pedals on the same power supply. This is because each pedal is isolated from the others.
Non-isolated power supplies are less expensive than isolated power supplies, but they do not offer the same level of protection or noise reduction. However, non-isolated power supplies can be a good option for guitarists who are on a budget or who only use a few pedals.
Ultimately, the best type of guitar pedal AC power supply for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
Table: Isolated vs. non-isolated guitar pedal AC power supplies
| Feature | Isolated | Non-isolated |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Noise reduction | Better | Worse |
| Protection from damage | Better | Worse |
2. Outputs
The number of outputs on a guitar pedal AC power supply determines how many pedals can be powered by the supply. Most power supplies have between 5 and 10 outputs, but some power supplies can have as many as 12 or more outputs. When choosing a power supply, it is important to consider the number of pedals you need to power, as well as the current draw of each pedal.
- Powering multiple pedals: A power supply with multiple outputs can be used to power multiple pedals, which can save space and reduce clutter on your pedalboard. This can be especially useful for guitarists who use a lot of pedals, or who use pedals that require a lot of power.
- Matching current draw: It is important to match the current draw of your pedals to the power supply. If the power supply does not provide enough current, the pedals may not function properly. Conversely, if the power supply provides too much current, it could damage the pedals.
- Daisy chaining: If you need to power more pedals than your power supply has outputs, you can use daisy chaining. Daisy chaining involves connecting multiple pedals to a single output on the power supply. However, it is important to note that daisy chaining can reduce the amount of current available to each pedal. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the power supply can provide enough current for all of the pedals that you are daisy chaining.
By considering the number of pedals you need to power, as well as the current draw of each pedal, you can choose the right guitar pedal AC power supply for your needs.
3. Current
The current draw of a guitar pedal is the amount of power that the pedal requires to operate. It is measured in milliamps (mA). The current draw of a pedal is important because it determines how much power the pedal will draw from the power supply. If the power supply does not provide enough current, the pedal may not function properly. Conversely, if the power supply provides too much current, it could damage the pedal.
The current draw of a pedal can vary depending on the type of pedal, the number of effects that are engaged, and the settings of the pedal. For example, a distortion pedal will typically draw more current than a reverb pedal. Additionally, a pedal that is set to a high gain setting will typically draw more current than a pedal that is set to a low gain setting.
It is important to consider the current draw of your pedals when choosing a power supply. The power supply should be able to provide enough current for all of the pedals that you need to power. If the power supply does not provide enough current, the pedals may not function properly. Conversely, if the power supply provides too much current, it could damage the pedals.
Here are some tips for choosing the right power supply for your pedals:
- Check the current draw of each of your peda
ls. This information can usually be found in the pedal’s manual or on the pedal’s website. - Add up the current draw of all of your pedals. This will give you the total current draw that your power supply will need to provide.
- Choose a power supply that can provide at least the total current draw of your pedals. It is better to choose a power supply that can provide more current than you need, rather than a power supply that does not provide enough current.
By following these tips, you can choose the right power supply for your pedals and ensure that your pedals will function properly.
Table: Current draw of common guitar pedals
| Pedal type | Current draw (mA) |
|---|---|
| Distortion pedal | 20-50 |
| Overdrive pedal | 10-30 |
| Reverb pedal | 5-15 |
| Delay pedal | 10-25 |
| Chorus pedal | 5-15 |
| Flanger pedal | 5-15 |
| Phaser pedal | 5-15 |
| Wah pedal | 10-20 |
| Volume pedal | 5-10 |
| Tuner pedal | 5-10 |
4. Voltage
The voltage that is supplied to the pedals is an important consideration when choosing a guitar pedal AC power supply. The voltage of the power supply must match the voltage of the pedals that you are using. If the voltage of the power supply is too low, the pedals may not function properly. Conversely, if the voltage of the power supply is too high, it could damage the pedals.
Most guitar pedals operate on 9 volts DC. However, some pedals may require a different voltage, such as 12 volts or 18 volts. It is important to check the voltage requirements of your pedals before choosing a power supply.
In addition to the voltage, you should also consider the current draw of your pedals. The current draw is the amount of power that the pedals require to operate. The power supply must be able to provide enough current for all of the pedals that you are using. If the power supply does not provide enough current, the pedals may not function properly.
Here is a table of common guitar pedal voltages and current draw:
| Pedal type | Voltage (V) | Current draw (mA) |
|---|---|---|
| Distortion pedal | 9 | 20-50 |
| Overdrive pedal | 9 | 10-30 |
| Reverb pedal | 9 | 5-15 |
| Delay pedal | 9 | 10-25 |
| Chorus pedal | 9 | 5-15 |
| Flanger pedal | 9 | 5-15 |
| Phaser pedal | 9 | 5-15 |
| Wah pedal | 9 | 10-20 |
| Volume pedal | 9 | 5-10 |
| Tuner pedal | 9 | 5-10 |
By understanding the voltage and current draw of your pedals, you can choose the right guitar pedal AC power supply for your needs.
5. Polarity
The polarity of a guitar pedal AC power supply refers to the orientation of the positive and negative terminals on the power supply. Most guitar pedals use a negative center polarity, which means that the negative terminal is in the center of the power plug and the positive terminal is on the outside. However, some pedals use a positive center polarity, which means that the positive terminal is in the center of the power plug and the negative terminal is on the outside.
It is important to use the correct polarity power supply for your pedals. If you use the wrong polarity, you could damage your pedals. To determine the polarity of your pedals, consult the pedal’s manual or website.
Here is a table of common guitar pedal polarities:
| Pedal type | Polarity |
|---|---|
| Distortion pedal | Negative center |
| Overdrive pedal | Negative center |
| Reverb pedal | Negative center |
| Delay pedal | Negative center |
| Chorus pedal | Negative center |
| Flanger pedal | Negative center |
| Phaser pedal | Negative center |
| Wah pedal | Negative center |
| Volume pedal | Negative center |
| Tuner pedal | Negative center |
If you are using a daisy chain to power multiple pedals, it is important to make sure that all of the pedals are using the same polarity power supply. If you use pedals with different polarities, you could damage your pedals.
6. Size
The size of a guitar pedal AC power supply is an important consideration, especially if you are planning to use the power supply on a pedalboard. A larger power supply will take up more space on your pedalboard, but it will also be able to power more pedals. A smaller power supply will take up less space on your pedalboard, but it may not be able to power as many pedals.
- Compact size for pedalboards: If you are using a pedalboard, you will want to choose a power supply that is compact and lightweight. This will help you to save space on your pedalboard and make it easier to transport.
- Larger size for more power: If you need to power a lot of pedals, you will need to choose a power supply that is larger and more powerful. This will ensure that your power supply can provide enough power for all of your pedals.
- Consider the number of pedals: When choosing a power supply, it is important to consider the number of pedals that you need to power. If you only need to power a few pedals, you can choose a smaller power supply. However, if you need to power a lot of pedals, you will need to choose a larger power supply.
- Consider the size of your pedalboard: If you are using a pedalboard, you will need to make sure that the power supply will fit on the pedalboard. Measure the space on your pedalboard before you purchase a power supply.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right size guitar pedal AC power supply for your needs.
7. Weight
The weight of a guitar pedal AC power supply is an important consideration, especially if you are planning to use the power supply on a pedalboard. A heavier power supply will be more difficult to transport, but it may also be more durable. A lighter power supply will be easier to transport, but it may not be as durable.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the weight of a guitar pedal AC power supply:
- Durability: A heavier power supply is more likely to be durable
than a lighter power supply. This is because a heavier power supply will be made of more durable materials. - Transportability: A lighter power supply is easier to transport than a heavier power supply. This is because a lighter power supply will be easier to carry and will take up less space.
- Size of pedalboard: If you are using a pedalboard, you will need to make sure that the power supply will fit on the pedalboard. A heavier power supply may not fit on a smaller pedalboard.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right weight for a guitar pedal AC power supply is to consider your individual needs and preferences.
Table: Weight of common guitar pedal AC power supplies
| Power supply | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|
| Truetone CS12 | 2.2 |
| Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus | 2.5 |
| Cioks DC10 | 3.0 |
| Strymon Zuma | 3.5 |
| Walrus Audio Phoenix | 4.0 |
8. Price
The price of a guitar pedal AC power supply can vary depending on a number of factors, including the brand, the number of outputs, the current capacity, and the voltage. However, it is important to remember that the price of a power supply is not always indicative of its quality.
There are a number of affordable power supplies on the market that can provide reliable power for your pedals. However, if you need a power supply with a lot of outputs, a high current capacity, or a specific voltage, you may need to spend more money.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the price of a guitar pedal AC power supply:
- Brand: Some brands of power supplies are more expensive than others. This is often due to the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability.
- Number of outputs: Power supplies with more outputs are typically more expensive than power supplies with fewer outputs.
- Current capacity: Power supplies with a higher current capacity are typically more expensive than power supplies with a lower current capacity.
- Voltage: Power supplies that can provide a higher voltage are typically more expensive than power supplies that can provide a lower voltage.
It is important to weigh the cost of a power supply against your needs. If you only need a power supply with a few outputs and a low current capacity, you can probably get away with a less expensive model. However, if you need a power supply with a lot of outputs, a high current capacity, or a specific voltage, you may need to spend more money.
9. Brand
The brand of a guitar pedal AC power supply is an important consideration because it can indicate the quality and reliability of the product. Some brands have a reputation for producing high-quality power supplies that are built to last, while other brands may produce power supplies that are less reliable or durable.
When choosing a guitar pedal AC power supply, it is important to do your research and read reviews from other users. This will help you to get a better idea of the quality and reliability of different brands.
Here are some of the most popular brands of guitar pedal AC power supplies:
- Truetone
- Voodoo Lab
- Cioks
- Strymon
- Walrus Audio
These brands are known for producing high-quality power supplies that are built to last. However, it is important to note that even within these brands, there are different levels of quality and reliability. For example, Truetone’s CS12 is a very popular power supply that is known for its high quality and reliability, while Voodoo Lab’s Pedal Power 2 Plus is a more affordable option that is still very reliable.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a guitar pedal AC power supply is to do your research and read reviews from other users. This will help you to get a better idea of the quality and reliability of different brands and models.
Table: Comparison of popular guitar pedal AC power supply brands
| Brand | Price | Number of outputs | Current capacity | Voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truetone | $129 | 12 | 1000mA | 9V, 12V, 18V |
| Voodoo Lab | $99 | 8 | 500mA | 9V, 12V, 18V |
| Cioks | $149 | 10 | 1000mA | 9V, 12V, 18V, 24V |
| Strymon | $199 | 9 | 1200mA | 9V, 12V, 18V, 24V |
| Walrus Audio | $149 | 8 | 1000mA | 9V, 12V, 18V |
10. Warranty
The warranty of a guitar pedal AC power supply is an important factor to consider, as it can provide peace of mind and protection in the event of a malfunction. A longer warranty period typically indicates that the manufacturer is confident in the quality and reliability of their product.
- Protection against defects: A warranty can protect you against defects in materials or workmanship. If your power supply fails due to a covered defect, the manufacturer will repair or replace it free of charge.
- Peace of mind: A long warranty can give you peace of mind, knowing that you are protected against unexpected failures. This is especially important if you are using your power supply on a regular basis or in a critical application.
- Manufacturer confidence: A longer warranty period typically indicates that the manufacturer is confident in the quality and reliability of their product. This can be a valuable consideration when choosing between different brands and models.
When choosing a guitar pedal AC power supply, it is important to consider the warranty period offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide you with peace of mind and protection against unexpected failures.
FAQs about Guitar Pedal AC Power Supplies
Guitar pedal AC power supplies are an essential piece of gear for any guitarist who uses multiple pedals. They provide a convenient way to power your pedals without having to use multiple power adapters, and they can also help to improve the sound of your pedals by reducing noise and interference.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a guitar pedal AC power supply. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about guitar pedal AC power supplies:
Question 1: What is the difference between isolated and non-isolated power supplies?
Answer: Isolated power supplies provide separate power for each pedal, while non-isolated power supplies share power between pedals. Isolated power supplies are more expensive than non-isolated power supplies, but they offer several advantages. First, isolated power supplies can help to reduce noise and interference between pedals. This is because each pedal is getting its own
dedicated power source, so there is no chance for the power from one pedal to interfere with the power from another pedal. Second, isolated power supplies can help to protect your pedals from damage. If one pedal shorts out, it will not affect the other pedals on the same power supply. This is because each pedal is isolated from the others.
Question 2: How many pedals can I power with one power supply?
Answer: The number of pedals you can power with one power supply depends on the power supply’s current capacity. The current capacity is measured in milliamps (mA). The current draw of a pedal is the amount of power that the pedal requires to operate. The current draw of a pedal can vary depending on the type of pedal, the number of effects that are engaged, and the settings of the pedal. To determine how many pedals you can power with one power supply, you need to add up the current draw of all of your pedals. The power supply’s current capacity must be greater than or equal to the total current draw of your pedals.
Question 3: What is the difference between a 9V and a 12V power supply?
Answer: The voltage of a power supply is the amount of electrical potential difference between the positive and negative terminals. Most guitar pedals operate on 9 volts DC. However, some pedals may require a different voltage, such as 12 volts or 18 volts. It is important to check the voltage requirements of your pedals before choosing a power supply.
Question 4: Do I need to use a specific type of power cable with my power supply?
Answer: Yes, it is important to use the correct type of power cable with your power supply. The power cable should be rated for the voltage and current of your power supply. Using the wrong type of power cable can damage your power supply or your pedals.
Question 5: How do I know if my power supply is working properly?
Answer: There are a few ways to test if your power supply is working properly. One way is to use a multimeter to measure the voltage output of the power supply. The voltage output should be within the specified range for your power supply. Another way to test your power supply is to connect it to your pedals and see if they power on and function properly.
Question 6: How can I troubleshoot problems with my power supply?
Answer: If you are having problems with your power supply, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. First, check to make sure that the power supply is properly connected to your pedals and to a power outlet. Next, check the voltage output of the power supply to make sure that it is within the specified range. If the voltage output is too low, your pedals may not function properly. If the voltage output is too high, it could damage your pedals.
Summary: Guitar pedal AC power supplies are an essential piece of gear for any guitarist who uses multiple pedals. They can provide a convenient way to power your pedals, reduce noise and interference, and protect your pedals from damage. When choosing a guitar pedal AC power supply, it is important to consider the number of pedals you need to power, the current draw of your pedals, the voltage requirements of your pedals, and the type of power cable you need. By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar pedal AC power supply for your needs.
Transition to the next article section: Now that you know how to choose the right guitar pedal AC power supply, let’s take a look at some of the best guitar pedal AC power supplies on the market.
Guitar Pedal AC Power Supply Tips
Guitar pedal AC power supplies are an essential piece of gear for any guitarist who uses multiple pedals. They provide a convenient way to power your pedals, reduce noise and interference, and protect your pedals from damage. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your guitar pedal AC power supply:
Tip 1: Choose the right power supply for your needs.
The first step is to choose the right power supply for your needs. Consider the number of pedals you need to power, the current draw of your pedals, and the voltage requirements of your pedals. You should also consider the size, weight, and price of the power supply. Once you have considered all of these factors, you can choose the power supply that is right for you.
Tip 2: Use the correct type of power cable.
It is important to use the correct type of power cable with your power supply. The power cable should be rated for the voltage and current of your power supply. Using the wrong type of power cable can damage your power supply or your pedals.
Tip 3: Connect your pedals correctly.
When connecting your pedals to your power supply, be sure to connect them in the correct order. The first pedal in the chain should be the one that is closest to your guitar. The last pedal in the chain should be the one that is closest to your amplifier. This will help to minimize noise and interference.
Tip 4: Isolate your pedals.
If you are using multiple pedals, it is a good idea to isolate them from each other. This can be done by using isolated power supplies or by using daisy chains. Isolating your pedals will help to reduce noise and interference.
Tip 5: Keep your power supply clean.
Over time, your power supply will collect dust and dirt. This can lead to problems with the power supply, such as noise and interference. To prevent this, it is important to keep your power supply clean. You can do this by wiping it down with a cloth or by using a vacuum cleaner.
Summary: By following these tips, you can get the most out of your guitar pedal AC power supply. You can choose the right power supply for your needs, use the correct type of power cable, connect your pedals correctly, isolate your pedals, and keep your power supply clean. By following these tips, you can ensure that your pedals are getting the power they need to sound their best.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Now that you know how to get the most out of your guitar pedal AC power supply, let’s take a look at some of the best guitar pedal AC power supplies on the market.
Conclusion
Guitar pedal AC power supplies are an essential piece of gear for any guitarist who uses multiple pedals. They provide a convenient way to power your pedals, reduce noise and interference, and protect your pedals from damage.
When choosing a guitar pedal AC power supply, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The number of pedals you need to power
- The current draw of your pedals
- The voltage requirements of your pedals
- The size, weight, and price of the power supply
By considering these factors, you can choose the right guitar pedal AC power supply for your needs.Guitar pedal AC power supplies are a valuable investment for any guitarist. They can help you to get the most out of your pedals and to protect your investment. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right power supply for your needs and get the most out of it.
Youtube Video:
