Maximizing Your Power Supply

#pedalboard #powersupply #pedalboardpower
The Rig Doctor shows you how to maximize your power supply on your pedalboard and how to appropriately power multiple pedals off of a single output.
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PEDALS PEDALS TO BE AWARE OF WHEN COMBINING POWER
Chorus
Phaser
Tremolo
Delays
FLANGER
Transistor-Based Fuzz & Octave
Digital Pedal (including Tuners)
*Note, this is not a die-hard rule, there are many exceptions. This is a good place to start. It's always best to test for yourself and see if you get added noise when powering pedals off of the same output. You can test this easily by unplugging power from one pedal and see if the noise lessens.
RIG DR.'S FAVORITE POWER SUPPLIES:
Truetone CS12 - amzn.to/2FaKxZC
Truetone CS7 - amzn.to/2EZMCX7
Truetone CS6 - amzn.to/2Cj3TtU
Strymond Zuma - store.strymon.net/zuma
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2+ - amzn.to/2EvyOVi
MILLIAMP READER:
Truetone Milliamp (mA) Reader - amzn.to/2F9v3VN
VOODOO LAB "Y" CABLE:
Voodoo Lab Output Splitter Adapter - goo.gl/t6BuVV
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WEB:
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PEDALBOARD TOOLS:
Soldering Iron - amzn.to/2GFQ5Nc
Solder - amzn.to/2GoDPBb
Solder Dispenser - amzn.to/2GpgMpR
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Wire Strippers (20-10 AWG) - amzn.to/2EbhBR3
Wire Snips - amzn.to/2EazwqU
Vise - amzn.to/2E9eTLO
Heat Gun (embossing gun) - amzn.to/2BwGdlm
Label Maker - amzn.to/2BCBcHU
Deoxit D5 Contact Cleaner - amzn.to/2GEm4gu
Truetone Milliamp (mA) Reader - amzn.to/2F9v3VN
PEDALBOARD MATERIALS:
Pedalboards - gomc.tv
2.1mm DC Power Plugs (KobiConn) - goo.gl/U33qfW
2.1mm DC Power Plugs (generic straight) - amzn.to/2Eaw3bO
2.1mm DC Power Plugs (generic right angle) - amzn.to/2SLeJ5v
Mogami 2319 - amzn.to/2IlfQ82
GLS Audio R/A - amzn.to/2EbhYLr
GLS Audio 1/4" Pancake Plugs - amzn.to/2E9hXaw
GLS Audio 1/4" Straight Plugs - amzn.to/2GqmJ63
Iconic Mini Straight 1/4" Plugs - amzn.to/2X2nJlV
Pedal Risers/Lifts - fixpedalboards.com/products/r...
Heat Shrink - amzn.to/2E8GRr4
3M Dual Lock SJ3550 (for pedal) - amzn.to/2TP1rlu
3M Dual Lock SJ3551 (for base) - amzn.to/2I8a7SG
Zip Ties - amzn.to/2HP1Ulv
Tie Down Mounts - amzn.to/2FO8B4T
MIDI Plugs - amzn.to/2VCMSlH
MIDI Cable - amzn.to/2tPAHWQ
PRE-MADE CABLES:
Voodoo Lab Output Splitter Adapter
goo.gl/t6BuVV
Don't want to make your own cables? Have the folks at Voodoo Lab make you our "Y" Splitter/Daisy Chain for you!
- - -
Mogami 2524 w/Silent Plug STRAIGHT
BUY HERE: amzn.to/31ptIm6
Mogami 2524 x/Silent PLUG RIGHT ANGLE
BUY HERE: amzn.to/31xvUIp
BULK: amzn.to/2HNQLS7
CREDITS:
Videographer - Mason Mejia
Graphics - Audrey Reed
Rig Dr. - Mason Marangella
TRANSITION MUSIC
by KZbin Royalty Free Music
"Sam the Man" & "Torrance Sunset"
OUTTRO MUSIC
"He's The Rig Doctor"
Ben Forehand & Renn Anderson

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Howdy folks! Be sure to comment with questions on specific power supplies. I think I got it mostly covered, but there are always a few "Murphy's" in there. All resources are linked in the description box above! Thanks for watching and be sure to subscribe, like, comment, and all that good stuff! XOXO ~Rig Doc.

[@RealMNeutral31]

Dude you just taught me something about guitar that is very important that hardly anyone teaches. Thanks a lot!

[@rohadtanyad8908]

i have 11 pedals that are 9 vdc. most of them draw pretty low current. but i have one pedal that requires 12 vac 1000mA. what power supply could i use that powers all of them? i don't have enough room for 2 power supplies. i have not been able to fund one that works. i have found a few that offer 800mA vac. i have two 12ax7 tubes running high plate voltage in that pedal. can the truetone milliamp reader read ac pedals?

[@Raaaaaaaaaaandy]

Vertex Effects any recommendations for after market dc cables? Thanks

[@johnhurtt977]

@@rohadtanyad8908 The Strymon Zuma will handle this.

[@rohadtanyad8908]

@@johnhurtt977 where do you see the zuma having any 12 volt AC outputs, especially at 1000mA? as far as i can tell, they only handle dc power, and 12volt only to 375mA.

[@Ottophil]

Ive been a guitarist and a my own tech since the mid 90’s and ive been an electronics technician working in the Industry for 13 years. I feel your channel goes above and beyond to show guitarists the tech stuff they should know. I now tell everyone who has asked me to repair their broken output jacks and troubleshoot their broken cables to your channel.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@cormacquinn9058]

this is actually the best youtube channel i have ever found

[@VertexEffectsInc]

So glad you dig it!

[@flyguyty33]

Totally agree! Just now found out about Mason, but so glad I did. VERY knowledgeable and responds to most people’s questions. Seriously a great guy. 🙏

[@josuesamaniego182]

This channel continues to be my favorite. Great video as always!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Josue Samaniego Thank you so much for watching! We really appreciate it! Please subscribe for more great content like this.

[@AlexPriceMusician]

Keep hustlin' Mason. We all appreciate your insight. Great videography and editing in this also

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Alex Price I’m getting better, as we got into getting all Sony cameras, and me personally upgrading to Final Cut Pro X, the quality has improved. Most of our other videos I have nothing to do with the shooting nor editing, but on this series I do I all so I can take on some new skills.

[@AlexPriceMusician]

Yep! It’s something I’ve been learning myself also. I upgraded to Final Cut from Adobe a few months ago and everything has gotten so much better. Found a great Panasonic for cheap at a pawn shop and have an SM7B on the way. It’s really pays to be a DIYer in this industry these days. Thanks always for the inspiration. It’s cool to watch your progress.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Alex Price Thanks again for watching Alex! I appreciate the support!

[@mattg9169]

Thank you thank you thank you!!! I just opened up four spots on my previously full Truetone CS12 Pro. I linked to your channel after watching what you did for Rhett.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Matt Gardner Awesome! I’m so glad, I hope we are in your subscription!

[@mattg9169]

I’m subscribed and alarm bell set.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Matt Gardner woohoo!

[@Mcsteveberry]

how is this not pushed to the top of the search list?!?!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hope it helps! Thanks for watching! Hope we earned your subscription!

[@thathorrorshow4126]

You just earned a sub. I'm gonna save this video for reference. Good you mentioned a pre made cable for those who don't know how to sod. Thanks for the video. This is very useful information for my next project. Appreciated.

[@johnhurtt977]

Pretty handy, and thanks for the "how to" on building the split power cable to take advantage of the power supply. Always love your videos!

[@PhilHeesen]

Thanks for the video, Mason! I always look forward to hearing your advice.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Phil Heesen III I hope you find it helpful! Be sure to subscribe if you haven’t already to stay tuned for more good content!

[@PhilHeesen]

@@VertexEffectsInc Subscribed and loving it!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Phil Heesen III Amazing! Thank you!

[@TotalEvo7]

Man, this really blew my mind. Never thought that it could be possible to do it, until I saw the board you built for Rhett (Shull), which some of the things I have yet to understand. As always, great material for anybody that's getting into building great pedalboards.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks buddy! Hope we earned your subscription! Thanks for watching!

[@TotalEvo7]

@@VertexEffectsInc Of course, why wouldn't you earn one from me? 😂😂. Ever since I saw Ben Forehand's board, which I have to say was quite an adventure, I subsequently subscribed. Looking forward to more Rig Doctor content. 👍

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@TotalEvo7 Thank you! You rock!

[@PageandPlant4Life]

One of the most helpful videos I've ever seen on KZbin. idk why I've never thought to find y cables before. i was running my tuner on a battery like a chump!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it helped

[@michelaser]

This is a good instructional video. It is brief, without background music etc.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@rjroth4869]

So practical! I appreciate all the details including links to tools and supplies. I just graduated from the 1SPOT daisy chain to the CS12 which took care of my noise issues. But if I put all my pedals on, I'll need to do some splitting as taught in this video. Excellent timing for me - thanks!

[@MrDavemiley]

Yo Mason, this video helped me with solving issues powering my GigRig 2 switching pedal board ! Also, i would like to mention , you sure have a very steady hand , like a surgeon watching you do the soldering. .., yep ! You are " The Rig Dr. !"

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I'm so glad! Thanks for watching!

[@smokestackstudiosgem]

Thanks man, my mini strymon power supply with only 5 outs, supplies my Boss ES8, RJM mini amp gizmo, wah, noise gate, ts9, Arion stereo chorus,boss ps6, boss dd7 and polytune 3 easily now. All with those 1spot 2-1 power adaptors you suggested. Very very cool man. Best pedalboard ever!!! Thanks again from a land Downunder 🤘👍🎸

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Amazing! I'm so glad you dig the content and the suggestions!

[@JeffKeel]

Love it Mason adding value and teaching us how to do it. Good on ya man.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

JT Keel Thanks a million JD! I hope we are in your subscription! Thanks for watching

[@JeffKeel]

Vertex Effects I’m there man. Keep bringing the great content.

[@Samuelsonfranz]

Thanks for this Mason! You’re the best!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Totally buddy! Anytime! Thanks for watching and please subscribe if you haven't already! We sure appreciate it!

[@Rigel7WasAlreadyUsed]

This was really helpful, Mason. I've been using cheapo Mosky supplies and thought about upgrading, only to find no one makes a supply with enough taps for the pedals I want to use. This info was just what I needed, doc.

[@anthonystevens7206]

Thanks Mason! So grateful I found this! The other day I was trying to connect my chorus pedal to my tuner and it wasn’t working... now it all makes sense!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it helped!

[@Antonio-nn5ot]

I love this... Gonna redo my pedalboards and turn them into perfection after these videos 👍🏾

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Amazing! Thanks for watching!

[@worshipguitarjapan]

Thanks for the video dude!! I don't have all the tools you have so I just checked for each individual pedal power requirement and combined the pedals accordingly. The pedals I didn't share power with were the DD-20 and time factor, which needed a separate power supply. IN my case I used a power pedal 2 with outputs 5 and 6 to share power.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Gotcha! Thanks for watching!

[@harleyhexxe9806]

Hi Mason! Very helpful information for the DIY'er! I'm putting together a pedal board and I could use some advice since this is my first pedal board build. I will list all the devices I'll be using for this build, with their power requirements, and hopefully, I'm thinking of this correctly. Most of the effects are from NUX, with one from JOYO. 1) NUX Cerberus Integrated effects-9V, 500mA 2)NUX Horseman Overdrive - 9V, 20mA 3) NUX Sculptor Compressor - 9V, 100mA 4) NUX JTC Looper/Drum Machine - 9V, 100mA 5) x2> NUX Solid Studio IR Loader/Power Amp Simulator - 9V, 240mA (each) 6) JOYO II Multimode Wah - 9V, 18mA Power Supply - Truetone 1Spot Pro CS-6 I will be mounting all these on a NUX Bumblebee large Pedalboard Signal path will be: Guitar>Wah>Compressor>Overdrive>Looper>IntegratedEffects, (Dual Outputs)>IR Loader/Amp Sim> to amplifiers and mixing desk. Since the Truetone has two 500mA supplies, two 200mA supplies, and two 100mA supplies, I was thinking of wiring the power this way: One 500mA to the Cerberus One 500mA to each of the Solid Studios with a Y cable One 200mA to Compressor One 200mA to Looper One 100mA to Overdrive and Wah with a Y cable Would this be the way you would power this board, or do you see problems with how I'm thinking of doing it? Thank you!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Paralleling the digital stuff can be tricky, often it doesn't work. You'll have to try it and see.

[@harleyhexxe9806]

@@VertexEffectsInc Are you referring to the two Solid Studios?

[@davidperezsosa281]

This is awesome can’t wait to se the video

[@VertexEffectsInc]

David Perez Sosa it’s a good one!

[@aquinojose94]

Thanks for this! I needed this video.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏😂 our pleasure

[@msglennable]

Thanks for the video, Mason! Could you share your thoughts on putting pedals on top of power supplies? For example, a junction/interface box, a modulation pedal, a tuner, or a wireless guitar receiver on top of a Zuma or Voodoo PP2...

[@CoffeeConversationMusicGear]

@RigDoctor always cool knowledge you share man! Thank you. I love to solder so this fun for me. I normally do soldering in my guitar when changing out pickups, pots and stuff.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hopefully this will be a good transition into a few new things! Hope we are in your subscription! Look forward to seeing you around here in the future

[@joeyselder5693]

Lol! First time I seen your channel. Intro was freaking awesome! Content good too.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad you dig it, hope we earned your sub!

[@Watzzys]

Good job man. Love your videos!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Watzzy so glad you dig them! Please be sure to subscribe!

[@dwrdyts]

Very cool! I never new this!! Thank you for the info.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

My pleasure! Be sure to subscribe to stay tuned for more!

[@robbievalentine8239]

Dang bud. These videos are great. Thank you for sharing

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Of course! Enjoy and please subscribe if you haven’t already!

[@bpabustan]

Thanks for this video, it helped further in designing my soon to be new pedalboard! I am now a subscriber - MOLTO BENE!

[@Mcsteveberry]

i believe this is the video i am looking for

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Perfect!

[@Mcsteveberry]

@@VertexEffectsInc

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@Mcsteveberry thanks for watching!

[@aquinojose94]

You’re the man Rog DOC!!!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

That was an excellent video, thanks for the amazing content!! I got a question: Right now i have in my board 7 pedals (although i intend to buy some more), and i need to buy an isolated power supply to them... you mentioned "Truetone CS12" in the description and I got curious, is there a problem if i turn a 9V pedal that uses like 10mA in a 800 mA plug? will be noisy? sorry for my lack of understanding, and thanks again for the content

[@VertexEffectsInc]

NO problem, pedals only draw the current they need.

[@juaquincura1079]

Great information! Thank you so much.

[@DLawrenceMarketing]

Great info in your video. Hope you can answer a basic question. Are daisy chains typically noisy? I use a daisy chain plugged into my Furman power conditioner and it gets noisy. Maybe I should remove my chorus pedal from the chain. Have you ever used a usb power supply with a daisy chain and was it noisy. The bottom line question is do I need an isolated power supply which eliminates the need for a daisy chain or will something like a usb battery supply clean power and work with a daisy chain?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

David Lawrence In the case of your power supply, I generally find them to be pretty noisy because they’re not built to accommodate the types of pedals that are more commonly use now. I would highly recommend getting an isolated power supply, and I have links to several that I like that are at various price points. To be clear, the daisychaining of pedals can be an advantage to expanding a power supply in specific applications, but I do not endorse doing it across the board because the more of them you do, the higher probability of a problem. Plus, you lose any isolation that you had, so ideally you want to try to minimize it within reason.

[@335gc]

Thank you for the great information!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@Sadsoft]

Any tips on what wire to use for those power cables? Only saw links for the dc power ends and not the actual cable. Great video as well

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I recommend repurposing your existing power cables, not making them from scratch.

[@smokestackstudiosgem]

I did it.. it worked perfectly. Awesome.. Thankyou.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Great 👍

[@Producer_Jeff]

Hey mason, so I’m planning on using a True Tone cs12 for my next ampless rig build and I just had a few specific questions 1) do you usually suggest giving noise gate pedals their own isolated power or are they ok sharing with the usual candidates (overdrive distortion etc) 2) are EQ pedals (boss ge7 is what I’m running) able to share power just as well as any overdrive is? 3) do you recommend giving high current distortion pedals (I’m running the KSR Ceres 3 channel preamp which draws 200ma) their own isolated power or do they share power the same way a regular distortion would? Thanks so much for the content man!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

1) and 2) Depends on the noise gate - always best to test pedals you plan to parallel to make sure there is no issue. 3) as long as you don’t exceed the total mA available you should be ok, but again, refer to 1&2.

[@ztol4_i126]

Great advice on considering Amp draw. Splitting at the plug is definitely that way to go. Each conductor is drawing amperage that is needed for it's pedal only and the conductor is rated higher than the draw to prevent excessive heat generation.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

👍👍👍

[@satchrules101]

@@VertexEffectsInc can i hook up my deja vibe 18 volt 50 mA minimum .. on to a pedal power2 plus voodoo pedal power?

[@bruceanderson8720]

thank you for the great info

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Totally Bruce! Hope it helps you on your rig! Thanks for watching!

[@polenick]

Great videos, thank you! Quick question: I’m building a pedalboard with a Carl Martin Compressor and an SIB Varidrive (plus a bunch of other stuff). Since those two have the hard wired power cord, how do you suggest powering those? I will use a voodoo or similar for the other pedals. Thanks!!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can use a small power strip with an IEC connector and place in a far corner away from all pedals possible.

[@HHJoshHH]

Thank you so much Mason!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes of course!

[@RoadsterRock]

great vid! genuinely learnt a lot. what would you consider the best/quietest power supply to get? i am putting a board together with about 7 pedals, mainly standard boss type, with a wah and treble booster. i've been looking at the coins dc7, one spot and strymon zuma, but would consider any really. many thanks

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Strymon, Cioks, Truetone, are all good ones.

[@Cianod90]

Great video, wish I had this information ago!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching! Hopefully this still comes in handy!

[@gtr2212]

Your videos are incredibly helpful!! Love the daisy chain idea, never thought of using that with a brick. Is there a power supply that can power the ES-8, 4 standard stomp boxes, an H9 and a boomerang phrase sampler (9-10VAC, 500-1000mA)?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Not that I'd recommend. You really need a quality isolated supply.

[@gtr2212]

Sounds good, I'll stick with the power supplies that I'm they came with.

[@crosseyedwillie]

Uncle Mason - usually play blues and use 2 pedals and a tuner. I got the urge to build a pedalboard to screw around with at home. Using a Voodoo Labs power Plus ..... 7-effects and a tuner.....the pedals are 60ma or under. The pedal power slots are Channels 1-4 = 100ma / Channels 5-6 = 250ma / Channels 7-8 = 100ma. / question #1 is there any need to put them in special spots on the power supply if the draw is under 100ma on all the pedals? / question #2 - I cut the ends off of one side of two EBS ribbon cable ... I soldered two 1/4” switch craft input jacks ... so I plug in from the sides of my Accel pedalboard. Bought two metal cups from Angela instruments to attach them to the board. (I wish I could show you a picture). But these inputs are inside the board (but exposed), should they be sealed in something. The board is dead quite ... I get some hum when I turn on the Overdrive/preamp...... Just wanted to get some words of wisdom from the Master!

[@kowalski5233]

Hi Rig Doctor. Thanks for the great material! I was hoping for some more detail / examples on the process that flew by at the 11:20 mark about. What exactly to listen for, examples of what you deem good/bad, etc. Any advice there?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

An easy way to test is to test each pedal by itself, isolated, then add in the parallel power cable and see if you have more noise. If it's not noticeable, you're probably OK, if you're getting more noise or strange behavior from the pedal compared to it being powered by itself, then you'll know you have an issue.

[@kowalski5233]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks so much for the reply! Perfect, thanks. I'll approach it that way, it makes a lot of sense. I was A/B some compressors with my acoustic the weekend and used my looper to play a riff clean, then with comp A and then comp B to listen to it afterward (hard to compare while playing if your acoustic is loud AF), and then thought, wait, what am I doing, and put the looper in front of the pedals like you suggested in the video. \m/

[@VertexEffectsInc]

kowalski5233 👍👍👍

[@jeffsipe_]

Hey Mason! I think I know the answer, but just to be sure. Would there be any issues combining the following pedals via power splitter/daisy chain? JHS Little Black Buffer (19 mA) > JHS 3 Series Compressor (8 mA) > Greer Lightspeed Drive (11 mA) > JHS Kilt V2 (64 mA) The total draw shouldn't be a problem for the 500 mA output on my Zuma, but I just wanted to make sure there are no other issues that you're aware of with this specific combination that I'm overlooking. Thank you in advance for any info, and for all the info you share on this channel! It's immensely helpful.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

They might be just fine, but the best way to test us to actually try it, I always like to keep around a splitter cable so that I can test various daisychains

[@MusicTherapyLaz]

I have the One Spot Pro CS-12 because of the various voltage requirements of some of my pedals...this was very helpful for my pedalboard build plan as I often stack various drive pedals and also use digital delay, reverb and modulation pedals...my one question is how buffered pedals might affect this type of setup? Thanks dude! You Rock! 😎🎸🐦🤘

[@blanejohnson9045]

Polytune>carl Martin compressor that has a 2 prong cable plug that needs a courtesy outlet>overdrive>el capistan>line 6 m5> keeley omniverb. Is there a power supply that will power these with a courtesy outlet for the carl martin comp to plug into?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Not that I know of, but you can mod the Carl Martin for DC power

[@distortion_plus]

Have you tried heat shrinking the power connector back together instead of the tiny cable ties? It's not a high stress area for the most part and would be less bulky than the ties.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The zip ties are way more solid than that could possibly be. There is pretty good rigidity once it’s zip tied. Just not quite as robust as the actual molded end. Because there aresome offsets on each side of the dc power housing, when you zip tied them together it’s pretty immovable if you tighten it down enough.

[@lacgugolator]

Ha! So awesome! I learned today! Thank you Rig Doctor! I’m in a budget but I want to for away from daisy chains. I use three daisy line and three powder plug - I want to rebuild my pedalboard similar to your design should I go all out on a Zuma or a cheap Amazon power supply bank? Like Donner iso 8?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Zuma, Cioks, Truetone are all great and some of these are really budget friendly like the Truetone

[@david_heryanto]

Thank you.. love it.. Do you have suggestion if we use Boss RV6, DD7, and od or Dist with boss power supply like on boss BCB 60?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That is not an isolated supply, so it’s basically one giant daisy chain for everything. There may be some circumstances where this wouldn’t be an issue, however with boss pedal’s because they’re all reliant upon power in order to pass signal, if one of the outputs goes down the entire system goes down. And I didn’t find needs to be particularly nice power supplies anyway. I would definitely recommend looking at the list of supplies that I posted in the description box and starting there.

[@Shankdv8]

If I was to go completely DIY with power cables(buy 2 ends and solder a wire between) what wire would be the best? Would a standard ground/hot wire work?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No reason to do this. Zero advantage. It’s not like audio cables. You’d need to find a cable tha was coax and thin enough diameter to fit the 2.1mm plugs that could run the voltage levels you need, 9V minimum.

[@riffhero]

Hi mason, can I use my daisy chain to extract my power splitters? Say I want to combine 2 pedals, in which case, I would cut (or reduce) my daisy chain to have only 3 connectors: 1 for the power supply and 2 for the pedals. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Riff_Hero you could, you might wanna heat shrink the side you cut so you don’t risk a short

[@riffhero]

Vertex Effects okey thank you!

[@GuitarJawn]

I just starting ripping my board apart last night I'm thinking about going with this, Polytune3 - Lovepedal Believe - Keeley Monterey - Ego Comp Mini - (Over Drive Pedal that gets swapped "too" often) - LovePedal Dover Drive - Phase 99 - Lovepedal Rotary Reverb - (*Digitech DL8 and Big Sky if not using an effects loop) - Voodoo Labs Giggity

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Looks good to me!

[@andrewmckenzie3964]

What do you recommend for a mini board & power supply? I have 5 or 6 pedals to power. Looking for a board that will fit in my mono tick. Pedal train nano, or voodoo labs dingbat probably. I'd assume truetone CS-6 or the Ojai r-30 but worried if they'll fit under the board w/out mods. Any help or advice would be excellent. you're the man

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Sure...

[@marcelstannard2701]

Awesome vid!! Thanks!! I'm about to tackle my board!! Mini wah/pog2/boss ps5/boss Ms3/Hx effects/boss re20/bigsky/H9.. powering with hopefully a onespot cs12...

[@RobinSunquiet]

Hi Mason, Thanks for this awesome video! Do you ever use bulk 18AWG wire to connect 2 of the Kobiconn DC plugs rather than using the cable provided by Strymond you showed in this video? I have a Truetone CS7 which didn't come with the 2ft DC cables I will need, so am thinking about ordering generic 3ft DC cables off of amazon, but fear the quality of these might not be very good. Any suggestions about where to get quality wire to connect 2 Kobiconn DC plugs at custom lengths? Does Mouser sell the wire too? If so, which one do you recommend? Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Robin Sunquiet Have you considered purchasing the 36 inch Voodoo lab versions? They have single end molded DC power cables that you can terminate to length. You can make your own too, but for low voltage like this I’m not sure there would be a difference and the lengths aren’t that long so cable resistance voltage drops aren’t really an issue.

[@RobinSunquiet]

@@VertexEffectsInc Awesome! Thanks for the suggestion. I will go with the Voodoo lab version. I appreciate what you do and appreciate your help in this process!

[@oldtimer99]

Besides connecting the pedals how can you test you did a good job soldering the two cables? Can the pedals be damaged if you did it wrong? I am trying to assess the risk. Thanks.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

There are cable testers or you can use a multimeter to test it set to ohms. Your cables should read 0 ohms tip to tip, you can also use the "buzzing" feature on most DVMs to measure continuity.

[@teos-music]

Nice video and very useful! Cheers

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Teos! Hope we earned your subscription! Stay tuned for more good stuff!

[@teos-music]

@Vertex Effects Subscribed after watching modify your volume pedal video:)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Teos Music Thanks for hanging in there! We appreciate you watching!

[@alexj3007]

This possibly saved me money by not buying the one spot CS12. I can now continue to use my cs7. Thanks!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Alex J Awesome! Again if you’re only using say eight or nine pedals, you could definitely get away with just using this as long as everything is within the current limitations.

[@cddw33]

Awesome video!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@gianlucamauro4770]

Can I combine pedal power supply’s through a Y cable into an outlet? For example a zuma and a cs12 through a Y power cable and into an outlet. Or just use 2 zumas. Will there be a difference?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can make a Y cable for your AC or use a power strip or something like our power module to combine two supplies at one outlet.

[@asp102]

If you have a pedal with a higher draw than any single output on your power supply can handle, could you turn the Y cable around, plug the two connectors into your power supply (using two outputs) and use the one connector for your thirsty pedal? And would this work if the power supply’s outputs were isolated and rated differently? Eg an isolated 300ma output and an isolated 800ma output. Would the Y cable combine these to make 1100ma output? Thanks! 🙂

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Colin, you can parallel two outputs, and you can check out our Power Supply Cable video to show you how to DIY a voltage doubler, and current doubler, and reverse polarity cable.

[@jean-pierrejoubert6140]

Thanks for this video. Would it work just as well to use heat shrink instead of the cable ties to hold the housing in place?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Jean-Pierre Joubert You could, but I don’t think it will hold as well

[@jean-pierrejoubert6140]

@@VertexEffectsInc Cool, thanks!

[@TroyLeonardO]

You are a tone guru🙏🏽💯🙏🏽 bless you

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching

[@rgr4929]

Hey! In your favorite power supplies list you put the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2+ but not all the other Voodoo Lab models... But with Truetone you put all the models... Any issues with the other VoodooLabs models? I was thinking about buying or the Voodoo Lab ISO5 or the Truetone Cs7... THanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

They're all linear supplies and can have issues with magnetic fields and not much shielding on the aluminum case models. There is a Pedal Power 3 now that is a switch mode supply which I'm sure is great, but haven't tested yet, but the only linear supply they have that has any sort of shielding for the EMF is the Pedal Power 2

[@IvanStoynev]

Hey, uncle Mason! Thanks for the cool video, as always! Just curious - saw the video of GMOC pedalboard making again & noticed that the rubber feet are really low profile, so the power supply will be on the board; Have you noticed issues with pedals staying on top of a power supply? (excluding wah-wah pedals, which should be as far away from the PS as possible; & we are talking about quality isolated PS). Thanks, keep up the good work. All the best from Bulgaria =]

[@chrisjones1849]

Is it ok to use 2.1mm extension cables w/o added noise? My pedals are at home, some on the floor and some on my desk in front of me, and I need longer 2.1mm cables to reach some of them.

[@fraenkiboii]

Q: Is the current draw of a pedal higher when there's an actual audio signal running through it? I mean in case of a transistor, for instance, if there's no current on the base, there's no current on the collector, right?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

There are some very high impedance circuits that may exhibit some fluctuation, but we’re talking about decimal points, or single digit maximums, but I have never seen it myself, and a lot of it has to do with how it’s powered, current limiting, source impedance, etc. You definitely want to test the pedals turned “on” as I did because they may have different sedentary voltages versus active voltages, but playing a signal through the pedals I don’t think will gain you much in your testing process but I suppose you don’t risk anything by doing it other than it costing you your time.

[@bashars8393]

Hi Mason, I have a daisy chain cable that I am not using but would like to use as a port splitter for being able to power multiple pedals via one port. Say if I want to power 2 pedals from one port, can i splice the cable and disconnect the ground from the 9v jack going to the 3rd pedal to avoid getting ground loops ? Thanks

[@bashars8393]

Sorry i meant 2nd pedal.. not 3rd.

[@ryanjames2194]

Hi Mason. Thanks for this video, it was very helpfun. I have 2 question. I'm building a bass rig and wanted to know if I could daisy chain these specific pedals together. The Darkglass Alpha Omega Ultra with the Darkglass B7K v2. I'm using the 1 Spot CS12 power brick.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If they're digital probably not, you can always test it, but depends on the pedals themselves and how they're designed. Sometimes even analog pedals can be problematic together in some cases.

[@burricanecarter]

Could you explain how to set up a voltmeter to measure the consumption of a pedal?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

burricanecarter I recommend in the video in mention that the Truetone milliamp reader is the best way to get an accurate reading to test the actual current draw on each device. I had forgotten the one that I have at my shop and rigged up something where I could test the current draw by setting my multimeter to millivolts and having a splitter off of the power output so one side was reading the current drive while the other side was feeding the pedal the actual voltage. To be clear, the cost to build this was greater than the cost to actually buy the True Tone milliamp creator. I do not recommend you repeat what I did, but for the purposes of the video and for expediency sake, I rigged up something very quickly. Normally you would not be able to read current from a multimeter.

[@calypsoreese3559]

Hello There. Follow up question that hopefully doesn’t have TOO OBVIOUS of an answer. I have a BBE SUPA CHARGER and a Line 6 HX STOMP. Aside from the Rev Pol and Barrel Adaptor, anything i am missing??? I don’t want to fry the STOMP. Or, is this simply the wrong power supply to attempt to power my STOMP? Thanks for all and any help! Aloha

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Calypso Reese I think it’s standard polarity but a 2.5mm barrel. I don’t think you can power off this one - you need at least 1A to power it.

[@-thirteen]

Dude, thanks for this. I was just debating which pedal was going away to make room for my new Ultraphonix. No shit

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad we could help!

[@LuisHernandez-dy1rq]

Could I use the output from my Polytuner to power the ditto or Boss chorus CE2?

[@billphillipstube]

Confused about the polarity of the wiring here. Most pedals are center negative, right? So shouldn't the black wire go to the center tab, and the red to the shield?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

On most of the power cables sold with power supplies, internally, the red side is wired to the tip, black to the shield (ground). If you’re fearful of the polarity you can always buzz it out with your multimeter to know for sure.

[@BourkeTommy]

I have and Fulltone OCD and a Fulltone Fulldrive that I like to run at 18v on my one spot cs7. Is it ok to do a spliter out of the 18v output the same way you would on the 9v outputs?

[@J1JL]

Hi Mason, how bout sharing power with silicon fuzz pedals or with a tuner?

[@MyguitarteacherCa]

i have a pedal that needs 300mA - but my psu just has 100mA. is there any way to combine 3 psu outputs into one 330mA output (like a y-cable but with 3 on the one end)

[@tanujak98]

i have a Cioks power supply and I know they have parallel adaptors that allow you to combine two outputs of equal voltage to get the sum of the current.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can have more mA (current) than the pedal accepts just not less. Voltage on the other hand needs to match the pedal exactly.

[@BlueCollarRadio]

If someone asked this, I didn't see it. Can we just trust the current draw that it reports on the back of the pedal, or in the manual? Or do you always test it anyway?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Typically the manual will state higher than the actual draw.

[@ryuyamakawa4431]

I have 9 pedals on my pedalboard, and I have Cioks DC7 for my power. Is it ok to combined TC tuner mini with Ernie ball MVP volume pedal? And Strymon compadre with Belle Epoch Deluxe?

[@caseyscott1766]

If something were to go bad with one of your lower mA (analog) pedals, would that affect the noise factor given the "Y" power cable?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Casey Scott I would say the bigger risk would be a short, which could, depending on how the power supply is wired, cut off power to both pedals that are wired in parallel off the power supply. If one of those pedals were not true bypass, and had some active circuitry that was always on to keep the pedal passing signal, you could have a signal loss in that case, the same way as if you unplugged the power jack on a Boss Pedal for example. However, I don’t know that it’s any more of a risk than any single pedal being powered by a power supply that relies on power to keep the signal passing through. If you assemble the cable properly there’s really no more risk of a signal loss then just a single DC power cable. As far as noise is concerned the only thing I can think of is if the pedal was being underpowered or current limited as far is causing noise but not going into a full failure.

[@pearcetube]

I saw a video using the Voodoo Lab Output Splitter where it seems the ground is removed from one of the cables. If I understand, the ground is provided via the 1/4" that runs between them - eliminating potential for a ground loop. If that's true, could you skip braiding/connecting the shield to both ends and just solder one of them to the connector?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Pearce Murphy I don’t recommend doing it that way, it’s sort of a “Hail Mary” if you’re trying to sort out a noise issue. I have never once had a situation where I had to lift the ground in order to get noise to go away when splitting. In particular if the pedals that you’re going to are fairly close together there shouldn’t be much loop area. In other words as long as the cable is not spread far apart you should be just fine connecting the ground.

[@tristiankerner7624]

Can I daisy chain my clean boost (only used for leads) with a multi drive pedal and a plumes (that I only use to boost the signal with the drive turned down) if they all add up to less than 500 MA into a Strymon Zuma?

[@JK_35]

I have a strymon power supply and I’d like to power my line 6 hx stomp with the strymon. I’ve heard of using a Y cable to connect two 9v outputs from the strymon to the hx stomp. Do you think this would be safe, or that there is a better solution?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

J K I did this on Erick Walls’ Rig, check it out in another rig doc video. You just need to have the right barrel size.

[@jmd12331]

Hey doc , can a Peterson strobo hd tuner share power with a dmc micro which controls a collider? Since both the tuner and dmc micro are digital I wonder if they might cause noise together. Using an ojai.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

They're both digital...you can test for yourself, but typically digital combined with anything is a NO-NO. But who knows, it might work OK.

[@tonypichardo6570]

First of all, thanks for all you do! I have an es-5 and I’m wanting a dmc micro. I’m wondering if it ok for them to share power?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Pretty sure it’s made clear in this video that you can’t share digital and analog OR across digital devices, there are some exceptions to this but generally you’re gonna run into problems. The best way is to test it but my guess straight off the bat since I believe these are both digital, or have digitally controlled parameters it’s likely not going to work even if you have the current to feed both of them adequately

[@prstito]

Would you recommend daisy chaining Jackson Audio pedals like the Bloom(midi compatible version) and Broken Arrow? I feel like since they are controlled via digitally, it might introduce noise?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The truth is, I don’t know, I haven’t tried, but I know these have some things going on beyond just a straight to bypass with a mechanical switch and there are some more complicated parts to do the switching in some of the midi capabilities, if I understand the pedal correctly. You would have to try it, there’s no standard when it comes to this stuff, only guidelines.

[@AlexG.LimChannel]

Hi Uncle Mason. Greetings from Singapore:) May I check if the Y cable MC2 from truetone is ok?? Lastly, do you sell those already made ones? Thank you in advance and bless you:)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I don’t sell them

[@idontwanttousemynameyoutub7538]

I use a Zuma, and need to free up an output or two - I heard that I can connect a daisy chain from the ground lifted side of a VL output splitter? I'm not sure if it was in one of your videos, and couldn't find it if it was. I love your videos and you've been very helpful in the past, thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I wouldn't use a ground lift. I'd just split from the source of the power supply to two analog pedals in the distortion, overdrive, boost, or wah category. We have videos on how to DIY these splitter/paralleling cables.

[@idontwanttousemynameyoutub7538]

@@VertexEffectsInc Ok, thanks - I thought I may have gotten away with. I'm in lockdown and won't be buying a new power supply soon and I already have 3 Output splitters in use!

[@mattgilbert7347]

I have a Fuzz from MI Effects, the germanium "Neo Fuzz". The information on powering it using a PS is slightly confusing. As far as I can tell, it isn't reverse polarity but it cannot be daisy-chained or run of any PS that does not feature truly isolated, regulated outputs (eg: Truetone CS7/12) - at least that's what I think. So far I've had a battery in there, just to be safe until I figure this power thing out. I believe the same applies to my other Fuzz, a Lovepedal White Dragon. That one came with a reverse polarity adapter BUT according to the info you also cannot just use that adapter with a 1-Spot or any other non-isolated PS. It's kinda confusing. If there's any way you could help I'd appreciate it. I really love these two pedals but running them off a separate adapter is annoying, and although people claim that germanium fuzzes sound better (the handwired, "large dragon logo" White Dragon is a ge/si hybrid) with batteries and that the batteries "last forever" I'd rather run everything from one PS, like the CS12 which is on my list to buy. Here's the link to the Neo Fuzz instructions, if that helps. "Important Safety Note: Even though the pedal can be powered using a standard power supply, the internal polarity is reversed since the germanium transistors require a negative supply voltage. This means that you cannot use the same power supply to power normal pedals as well. You will most probably damage or burn out your power supply if you do this. If you want to be safe, only use batteries with the Neo Fuzz." miaudio.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/NeoFuzzManual.pdf There isn't much info available about the Lovepedal, other than it is center-positive. Thanking in advance. Great video! Helped me to finalise my decision regarding which PS to buy to replace my various cheap bricks and 1-Spots. CS12 FTW.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

It sounds like you’re confusing the One-spot wall wart with the Truetone CS7 and CS12 power supplies. The wall wart is not isolated. However the Truetone power supplies are isolated. Your fuzz, in all likelihood is using a transistor, perhaps Germainium, maybe silicon, in many cases will not agree, and can be damaged by sharing power or using any improper polarity. This would be especially problematic when you’re talking about the daisychained one spot wall wart. However, on an isolated supply, like the Truetone one, this will not be an issue so long as your matching the polarity of the isolated output to the fuzz pedal. Does that help clarify your question?

[@mattgilbert7347]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks, no I understand the difference between a 1-Spot "wall wart" (we don't call them that in Australia tho) and a Power Supply Brick such as the CS7, CS12, Voodoo Lab PP+. and so on. The Neo Fuzz features two matched, high-gain germanium transistors. The Lovepedal can blend between silicon and germanium. The actual transistors in the Lovepedal vary depending on the pedal, as Sean will use whatever he has handy or can order in. You've basically answered my question, as long as the power supply outlet is *truly* isolated (many claim to be but are not) and I use my polarity adapter for the Lovepedal (not required for the Neo Fuzz) and use the CS12 9v outlets for both, it should be fine. It would be problematic if I used another power supply, as I mentioned and as you are aware, many "isolated" power supplies are not as advertised. Thank you for your time.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Matt Gilbert good luck! I think you’ll dig the CS12

[@grneyedvillain2084]

After watching this vid, I decided to do this and got a one spot pro because I was running 2 power supplies. I bought the generic right angle plugs you have listed. Tried to solder them together but when I plug them in, only one works. Tried different cables and same result. What could it be?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad I could help with the power supply. Are you checking them to make sure the polarity is correct?

[@sbrave]

Any suggestion on a pwr supply to power my Mooer Radar 12v300mA, Baby Bomb30 DC 24V, 2A DC,center neg, Uk Gold900 9v300mA and TC Mini HOF? The Radar and Baby Bomb have their own pwr supplies, but trying to use just one if possible? Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Most of these you can current double with a current doubler cable. Many of these can do up to 500mA per output with voltage from 9-18V.

[@markcruz6942]

hey Mason great video! I am on an edge of getting a new power supply for my rig but I want to ask you personally which model or brand do you prefer? I am thinking of getting either an Strymon Ojai or Truetone CS6. I am a bit hesitant with Ojai having an external supply and price, CS6 somehow is cheap but I am not sure if its really "isolated". I hope you could help out. thanks

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I highly recommend the Truetone. It's one fo the best built supplies mechanically, and is totally isolated as advertised. If you have only six pedals to power, or use my tips and maybe get 8 pedals powered out of it, it's the one I'd recommend getting hands down. We use them on all of our NAMM trade show rigs. You can get it on Amazon here: amzn.to/2O8QTfb

[@markcruz6942]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank Mason! appreciate it. Truetone it is!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad I could help! Hope we’ve earned your subscription!

[@jjincguitar240]

Thanks for the nice video:) I have a simple question about power supplies. I have just about 1 dist pedal and 2 overdrives. What will you recommend between truetone cs6 or cs7 or strymon ojai? Most important things are noiseless, stability, and cost-efficient!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

최명진 Without question the true tone CS7. It’s incredibly well built, I have seven outputs, one at 18 V and the option to run other outputs between nine and 12 V. It’s compact, very robust, and will work at any input voltage coming into the supply.

[@jjincguitar240]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks for very helpful reply :) You mean cs7 is better than strymon stuffs?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

최명진 Mechanically, the Truetone is more robust for this application. It is designed to be a standalone power supply, and not in auxiliary supply that requires in external cable, that links to an IEC for power. The Strymon Ojai, although a quality supply, I view as something that you add on to one of their existing supplies, not as a standalone. The robustness of the Truetone equals that of the industry standard for many years, Voodoo Lab. Don’t get me wrong, the Strymon is great, however if you were starting fresh I would recommend the Truetone, however if you already own the Strymon I would encourage you to use it and not waste time getting another supply.

[@jjincguitar240]

@@VertexEffectsInc Wow amazing reply!!! I really appreciate your kindness Thank you very much Have a nice day:)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

최명진 Awesome! Thanks! You too