How To Make Custom Power Cables

Learn how to build your own custom size DC POWER CABLES for standard polarity, reverse polarity, voltage doubling, current doubling, and y-cable/splitter cable (daisy chain).
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Intro - 00:01
DC Cable Overview - 00:55
Materials Overview - 04:36
Standard Polarity Power Cables - 04:49
Reverse Polarity Power Cables - 09:26
Voltage Doubler Cables - 11:28
Current Doubler Cables - 16:46
Y-Cable/Splitter Cables - 20:45
Outro - 24:36
#TheRigDoctor #PedalPowerCables #DCPowerCables

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Learn how to build your own custom size DC POWER CABLES for standard polarity, reverse polarity, voltage doubling, current doubling, and y-cable/splitter cable (daisy chain). SUBSCRIBE 👉 👉 👉 kzbin.info ⬇️ CLICK BELOW FOR ALL DIAGRAMS & MATERIALS ⬇️ vertexeffects.com/diy-power-cables ⬇️ CLICK BELOW FOR RIG DR APPROVED MATERIALS & ACCESSORIES ⬇️ vertexeffects.com/rig-dr-recommended-pedalboard-materials TABLE OF CONTENTS: Intro - 00:01 DC Cable Overview - 00:55 Materials Overview - 04:36 Standard Polarity Power Cables - 04:49 Reverse Polarity Power Cables - 09:26 Voltage Doubler Cables - 11:28 Current Doubler Cables - 16:46 Y-Cable/Splitter Cables - 20:45 Outro - 24:36

[@rockinrew4925]

I just watched your maximize your power supply video. Built a couple y cables. Thanks my friend

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@rockinrew4925 this one will take that even further - you learn to make everything, plus all the diagrams linked in the description. You can make all your 18V, 24V doubler cables, current doublers, and more :)

[@rockinrew4925]

@@VertexEffectsInc thanks so much for your content. In these times it's more valuable then ever. I ordered mogami 2319 and pancake and right angel ends. Made all my own patch cables. I'm not using a switcher but I gig all the time. That's probably my next upgrade. I will be adding some buffers. What do you think of the templ audio buffer mods? I have a temple board with some custom modules I made for usb power and a 10 pin din for my foot switch for my egnater tourmaster amp. And happy birthday.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@rockinrew4925 Thanks again for watching! I have my list of recommended buffers in the description. Thanks for the birthday wishes!

[@rockinrew4925]

@@VertexEffectsInc I was thinking of 2 bonified buffers for the easy of mounting under the board. I use a wireless so I was thinking output buffer for my front of the amp and the return of my fx loop.

[@handidrummed]

Thanks for the videos! I haven't soldered in over ten years but I had to fix my bass so I bought a new iron. You've inspired me to make my own power and patch cables. I've got the power cable supplies, just waiting on the vice 😁

[@MrDavemiley]

To the point and excellent instructions ! I love these DIY tutorials . Thanks Mason ! You are one of the main reasons me and a soldering iron get along much better these days ! My DYI confidence is MOBetta !

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Wow, thanks! So glad you find it helpful!

[@Doomsday5d]

This is teaching mad game for people who cant get this info else where. Bless your soul brother!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@rgr4929]

That is the exact info I was looking for right now and it appeared to me without searching! :) Thanks from Spain!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I’m so glad!

[@CristianMay]

This video is pure gold. Thank you!

[@cfh13]

If only this video existed 20+ years ago. I had an old 80s boss power supply that had its plug cut off. I tried soldering a long cord from a random wall wart to the boss power supply but it did not work. I've got a cs12 now. I have a gcx & gcp coming tomorrow so your videos will come in handy soon. I want to rack the majority of my pedals.

[@edwinmcastro]

Your answers are always spot on and to the point thanks for the content it’s actually really helpful

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@brentled]

Very helpful! Thank you for sharing this information. Its really cool to learn how to sort out my own modifications.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🥳🥳🥳

[@PhishBanjo]

Thanks for this video, Mason! And thanks for the recommended parts list.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Any time!

[@telecastersRthebest]

This is amazing. You always make great content.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@henkkman]

Thanks for the video! Really like that Dan Huff track in the backround ✌️

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You're welcome! Hope you enjoyed and and we earned your subscription.

[@peter2712771]

Great video. This was perfect timing. I have to make two splitters so I can take the second power supply off my son's pedalboard.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yessir! Be sure to reference those wiring diagrams and materials list, it has everything you need!

[@waynenicholsonmayo]

Excellent as always, cheers!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@Antonio-nn5ot]

This video is pure gold!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@jsound8028]

This video is exactly what I was looking for! Best!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I'm so glad!

[@waynegosson1793]

Great video

[@thesamjonesproductions]

Fantastic info

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mrgnl.1]

Man i Did it!, reverse polarity, Your the best Dude! Thank you Sooo

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Killer! Great news!

[@navinadv]

I really love your videos Mason. I am an amateur home musician who started building pedals and pedalboards for myself in 2010 and learned from making mistakes. I wish your videos would have been around then. We did not get much of the stuff you get in India so I built my own isolated linear power supply (it was heavy). Then I saw Truetones SMPS supply and was kicking myself for not thinking about the idea first. I know you like the cables from Belden and Bestroncis BPTA and they are great for pedalboards but I would also suggest considering making guitar cables using Sommer Cables Classique cables. I have made several for my friends and myself and they last forever.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Navin, so glad you dig the videos - sometimes trial and error is the best way to learn a lot of this stuff. Sommer are good cables too, I also like Gotham (I think those are made in Switzerland). I mostly use Mogami however (made in Japan) for most of the builds you see, in particular the 2319 which is under $1 per foot from most retailers, even less sometimes.

[@damianacuna5413]

thanks rig doctor!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

no problem! Enjoy!

[@GarryGnu]

Awesome video. Thank you! Subbed and followed 🤘🏽🤠

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@GarryGnu]

@@VertexEffectsInc I made a Y cable for my MXR Kfk EQ and Doubleshot Distortion, both running on 18 volts.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Very cool

[@arisjohnkare468]

I keep finding more and more gems on your channel - thank you so much! A quick Q, would you be able to combine the above techniques to make a current doubler that has reverse polarity? Trying to power an Effectrode PC-2A compressor and it’s been a nightmare. Excellent and informative video, thanks again!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I will keep everything exactly as it was except change the one on the guitar pedal input so that the black and red wires are reversed there only.

[@andymalcolmson614]

Mason! Loving the videos, keeps me inspired and love your work. Got a weird one for you, you mentioned the current doubler? What would happen if I wanted to double current from two mismatched outputs, say one 9v and one at 12v both at 500ma to make 1a. Is it possible? I read voltage leaking can occur but I don't trust random comments on old forums haha. All the best!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Not advisable, the 12V one will try to source the 9V one which will try to sink the voltage.

[@8ventus8]

Thanks Mason!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Any time

[@jeongmok.h66]

Perfect

[@oneszeros1]

Hey Mason - wondering if you have plans for, or would consider doing a video dealing with custom cables for Cioks if you haven't already (how to make, lengths, best materials, keep it all tidy etc)? Would truly appreciate that! Love the channel and just subbed. Cheers from Australia 👍

[@VertexEffectsInc]

It's the same as this only the inverted polarity is standard polarity for RCA and standard polarity is inverted polarity based on my diagrams.

[@didtoknan8128]

Thank you for the zip tie trick ! I hated that kind of connector because the housing did not stay in place. The zip tie will solve that issue !

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@franciscopacobarreras9270]

Hi Mason, can you do a video soldering the Ciosk ones? they look weird with the RCA plug.

[@bengreer7638]

@Vertex Effects Agreed, can you show us how to solder our own for the Ciosk supplies??

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Same as what I did here, just reverse the leads - or do the opposite of how I wire things for the RCA plugs (red to the sleeve, black to the tip).

[@franciscopacobarreras9270]

Vertex Effects thank you!

[@Dogger1230]

Great, I have a CIOKS CIOKOLOLATE and I’m confused by what reversing or doing the opposite means

[@Drtydeeds]

@@Dogger1230 probably a good idea to not wire things yourself then.

[@Mediocre_Bass_Player]

Great vid thank you!! On your recommendation I am using Cioks DC7, could you do a quick vid on how to make custom DC cables for Cioks since they use RCA connectors for one end? Thanks again!

[@bilalnachabeh]

21:55 I can use this method to power my overdrive pedals that draw less than 20mah each! I have a 9v 500mah output on my power supply. thank you this is very very helpful and cost saving!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can parallel your overdrives in most cases so long as they have the same voltage and current and don't exceed 500mA total when combined.

[@bilalnachabeh]

@@VertexEffectsInc the pedals are boss sd1 / bd2 and ehx east river drive all three don't consume 100mah😂👍🏻

[@DaveBloomDrumsOnline]

This really helps me. I appreciate it. One quick question, how do you test your cables effectively before plugging them into the power source? I want to make sure everything is spot on before a chance ruining a pedal.

[@ohkey2999]

tester?

[@sethmjcooney]

Love this channel--my go-to for DIY content and help. Question I have is, with the 1 Spot CS12, there is 1 9v AC outlet with 800mA output. Is it possible to make a reverse cable to run a DC pedal off of it? Specifically looking to see if I could power an Iridium off of it with the right cable? Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Seth, you could perhaps make or buy a converted box to do it externally, I haven't researched companies that make this for a pedalboard application.

[@demonmucker4734]

Hello from Canada. Love the videos. I just wanted to know what temp you run your soldering iron at for guitar and power cables? Thanks.

[@vividrecordingstudio]

Working on my board and wired up the way you mention standard cables here with truetone wires and they were reverse polarity. Make sure if using the truetone cables you take black to the top, not red.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If found that they can change run to run. The best way is to test them first to see where the black and red wires are.

[@rockstardr]

That's so useful

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks so much! I hope we earned your subscription!

[@rockstardr]

I subscribed a long time ago

[@justinfoshee4760]

Hi Mason, thanks for the great content. If I need to shorten the main power cable for a MXR iso-brick, how would I go about that? I’m curious about the ferrite bead at the end of the cable. How do I retain that, or is it necessary to retain it? Thank you.

[@TheFeelButton]

Time for some cable Voodoo for my Voodoo labs supply. Great DIY! 👍😀✌

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Good luck! Enjoy!

[@BirdsandBeastsRecords]

This video is great. Thank you. Just a question about the current doubler as I am needing to build a reverse polarity current doubler. I presume I would make the cable as directed but then reverse the + and - at the connector going into the device being powered? Cheers!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can make the cable exactly as you see it here and then inverted the trip and sleeve on the side the plugs into the pedal. You can test it with your multimeter before you plug it into the pedal to make sure it matches the pedal provided power supply polarity as a check.

[@Durgo25]

Thanks so much for this video! Curious, what setting heat do you set your Weller too?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Nothing beyond 500 degrees is really necessary for most circumstances. Usually I adjust the heat depending on the tip. The larger tips take longer to cool down, so they don't need a lot of heat to maintain temp. Smaller tips might require more heat because they loose heat very quickly when in use.

[@joben_magooch]

Hey Mason, thanks for the tips! I'm curious - would making a custom daisy chain/Y-cable with more than two plugs, would the concept basically be the same? I have three OD's I'd like to chain together (rather than buying a new power supply...) but don't like the messy look of an off-the-shelf daisy chain.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, I'd just be careful the more you add to really test it first.

[@GJPlays]

Hi Mason, thank you for the video. I wonder could I use the same method on the cable coming from a transformer> For example, by Boss Gx-100 has it's own PSU but the cable is too long - could I shorten like this?

[@dozerandgabby]

Great stuff Mason, Thanks! The fade out sounded like EJ...

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes indeed!

[@OscarRios]

Hi, thanks for your highly informative video for the regular mortals like me. Quick question: is there any way to test this “before you plug it” to your pedal... like a meter or something, but how? What should I be looking for on the meter? I don’t know how to use a meter... just to make sure a my cable was done correctly. Thank you again.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes use a multimeter set to DC and you can measure the voltage and polarity before you plug into your pedal.

[@janroeser9792]

Hey Mason, thanks a lot for making these fantastic videos! So many great tips! One question: I want to build my own custom dc cables and use those with a Strymon Zuma power supply. However, I'm a bit worried: What if there happens to be a short in one of the soldered connectors (for example if somebody accidentally pulls at the cable)? Could that damage the power supply? Greetings from Germany!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

A short actually just shuts the output down and the LED goes out. You can always test you DC cable with a multimeter first to make sure it's reading properly before adding it to your board.

[@PatStyles]

Thanks for the zip-tie tip. Have you considered using color-coded zip ties to identify things like reverse-polarity cables? Maybe even the doubled cables in case the actual power supply is not visible when attaching the cables to the effect.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No, usually I use heat shrink but that's a great idea.

[@timbartlebaugh9915]

Thanks for the videos, they are some of the most informative on KZbin. I’ve got a EHX QTron+ 24v and I need to power it with my MXR IsoBrick. I want to power with a Y-cable from the 18v jack and the variable jack next to it set to 6v. Is that safe or do I need to use two equal outputs at 12v? On the ISOBrick it is possible to use the 2 variable jacks set @ 12v but they are on opposite sides of the pedal and the cable management won’t be as clean so I’d prefer the 18&6. Your guides have really improved my board, thank you!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You shouldn’t have a problem, you should just use a multimeter to make sure that it’s getting the voltage that you need, because sometimes there are some tolerance differences. Also make sure that you check with the polarity matches what’s on the provided power supply of the device

[@timbartlebaugh9915]

Will do, thanks!

[@NoBSMusicReviews]

A question I keep meaning to ask you, regarding power, but especially audio cables - how do you get the lengths perfect? More than once, I've measured twice then cut and soldered and cut and soldered and cut and soldered to get it perfect. You may have a video on this issue, but in all the best practices and build videos that I've seen, there's never been a 'here's how I measure all of those cables before I make 'em' segment. I mean, with the long wire chases you make with all of those tie-wrap adhesive blocks, how do you accurately measure the exact length of the run? Also - do you leave free-play on both sides for installing/deinstalling/reinstalling? Would love some close ups of board installs with switchers too. Keep up the great work!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Route them in place and then terminate them at the power supply. We have a few videos showing this technique.

[@bobbarcus8310]

Thanks you seem to be a cool guy

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching Bob!

[@deanallen927]

Nice video. Can you recommend a bulk cable for building them from scratch?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No reason to, just use what comes with the supply and use KobiConn 2.1mm ends.

[@sergiohotjazz]

I there. Can you put a link of the vise you're using? Can't find it anywhere. Thanks, great channel by the way, really usefull and direct.

[@uyyuy5442]

I guess you learn a lot of things while in quarantine edit: Belated happy birthday btw!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thank you so much!

[@jeremygrant8998]

Could you make a setup for busking using the mission engineering 529 and a power bank and show how to ground pedals like the rc600.

[@ZacharyWThomas]

Hey Mason, I just got a Big Muff Pi with a 1/8" Positive-Tip plug. If I wanted to power this from a Cioks DC-7, could I solder a 1/8" plug to the Cioks cable using the reverse polarity diagram, or would it be standard? Thanks!

[@89190alexis]

Hi! Great video as usual! I just don't understant why would you use zip ties?

[@dogsareloud]

Great Video. Has anyone figured out the amp draw for the POD GO in case we want to put it on a proper power supply rather than the wall wart.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Not sure what it draws, but you could get a current reader to figure that out. Truetone makes one.

[@rodolphehoguin5787]

Great tips! I have a mxr pedal m300 reverb (9v 240mA) that not function with a power supply T rex Fuel tank junior (5 outputs/9v 120 mA). Cable#4 (current doubling, keeping the same voltage) would allow to resolve this problem?? that's to say using two outputs of the power supply for this pedal?

[@boalston2484]

Oh great and mighty Rig Dr. I need some help. I've been trying to find a low profile IEC cable to use the courtesy outlet on my PP2 to power a second power supply on my Pedaltrain pt3. All of the cables I've bought, don't fit in the gap on the front so I've been trying to find the materials to make the cable myself. I've had no luck so far because I don't know where to start looking for parts. I thought about just getting a cable with a rotating male end and replacing the female end with a right angle plug but I can't for the life of me find the right angle connectors so that I can make them. Do you have any advice?

[@DavidRoger78]

hi Mason, thank you for the great explanations. You said that your Steel String can be operated at 18V also. I just bought one in January and I love it, but I use it with the classic 9V power. what are the advantages of operating it doubling the voltage? Thank you 💪💪💪

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Only v1 can go up to 18V, MKII already is running internally at max headroom.

[@DavidRoger78]

@@VertexEffectsInc yes, I bought a refurbished MK1. That's why I asked you. So 9V means half of the headroom?

[@moveonmotortrainingenj-p1384]

Hi Mason, i find your videos extremely useful, thanks. I have 2 pedalboards with cioks power units. Now, if i want to tidy my power cables i will need to cut the existing rca plugs to cut the cables to length. Ordinarily rca is used in audio. Which rca plugs are most useful for powering my pedals? Thanks in advance!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful. I use Switchcraft RCA plugs for my DC power plugs on things like Cioks supplies.

[@thatkidd197]

Been having some trouble trying to figure out exactly how to wire up custom length cables for cioks rca to dc supplies, would you consider doing a video on this ??

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I would buy the individual pre-made cables from Strymon or Voodoo Lab in the 36" or 42" lengths and then cut them down to size and re-terminate the end going into the Cioks. I use the mini RCA straight plugs from Switchcraft. Remember too on RCA plugs the shield goes to the tip and the center conductor to the sleeve for normal polarity (basically the reverse of what's in the diagrams in this video).

[@thatkidd197]

@@VertexEffectsInc y’all are bad ass thank you sm ✊🏼

[@danielcastillogonzalez4249]

Thanks for the information. If my intention is to make my power cables from scratch is it possible to use 2 of these right angles and a regular cable 21awg? Thanks in advance!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You could make the entire thing from scratch but there’s not much of a reason if you already have existing power cable, there’s no benefit sonically.

[@Wjprinzi]

Hey Mason! building a lil rig based on all your awesome vids. I'm wondering how you end up measuring your cable lengths? assuming youre tying down the cables to the board with zip ties, how do you practically measure and cut to length accurately?

[@GuitarKylePlays]

Hey there, thanks for the video. Wondering one thing - if you're not very experienced with soldering, is it just as good to cut apart a Daisy Chain to achieve a Y Cable? I'd prefer to construct custom cables in the long run, but I have a new build that I want to test thoroughly before a couple of return periods have ended for devices I've purchased. It seems that anywhere I can source cables from will be a week or more out for shipping.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You could but you'd have to make sure it could reach your pedals and you'd be waisting a lot of the daisy chain. If at all possible, it's better to split from the source (meaning the power supply), then from the pedals themselves.

[@Azyndevil5]

Awesome video. How do u extend the length if the cable?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Get longer cables is the best option or you can splice two cables together

[@aidanparker9543]

What about for a mini AC IEC cable from the wall to dc inverter. I just got a travel lite board and am jamming stuff close and the power it comes with way way too long for it to fit with the power module in the board

[@dylanlee4776]

Are there certain types of pedals you would never want to daisy chain regardless of their mA draw? My micro qtron for example only draw 2 mA so I figure I could chain that with something like the keeley compressor plus which only draws around 5 mA. Also have a walrus Julia, nano POG, and loop station I need to figure out who to chain with who for best results if you have any input. Thanks mane.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Generally things with clocks in them can be problematic, things like phasers, flangers, chorus, those can have issues in a certain context. I generally would only do low current overdrive devices, boost, distortion.

[@asp102]

Great video! 🙂 question: can the current doubler combine different current outputs? Eg an 800ma and a 300ma to make 1100ma? Or would it need to be two identical outputs (like the 2x 500ma you mentioned) Thanks so much!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes

[@JBNick1]

Hey Mason, do these techniques work for the Cioks flex cables (on the 2.1mm ends, not the RCA ends)? Thanks for the great video!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Similar but you would reverse the wires if you were using my diagrams to retrofit for RCA for the proper polarity.

[@JBNick1]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks! Just to clarify: the RCA connectors are wired for reverse polarity (center positive), but the 2.1mm DC connectors are still wired for standard polarity (center negative) in the same cable?

[@MrAndfio]

What gauge (type)of cable are you using. regards, great videos full of information.

[@efraintrinidad6297]

Can I use the MxR mini brick with this cables? Thanks

[@kastor8274]

Thanks so much for this video. One question regarding power supplies. I have a Strymoin Ojai, can you tell me if its ok to dress the EIAJ cable together with the audio cables ? Or will that cause noise ?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Shouldn't be an issue. It's still low current, low voltage. Not going to be an issue like AC.

[@kastor8274]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks so much for answering !

[@JDudeGuy00]

Thanks so much for the video. I have a question. Do you introduce ground loops into your pedal board when you split the output of a power supply using your y-cable method where the ground goes to both pedals? I know Voodoo lab sells adapters with a lifted ground. Do you think that is necessary for this situation? Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No, but it is possible to get them if you're splitting power on opposite sides of the pedalboard. Normally if you split from the source (your power supply) and keep the power cables running together closely until you break them off into their respective pedals, you should have no problem. I disagree with the Ground Lifted cables as Voodoo Lab sells, that's a Hail Mary solution and is unnecessary in most cases.

[@JDudeGuy00]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks so much for the reply! You are a really awesome dude and create amazing content! Thanks so much for all the useful information you put out there!

[@tomfoolery2082]

Uv probably seen those small black caps tht go on the male plugs to protect from shorting out . Would u kno where i could buy the caps by themselves. Thx ,, love the channel .

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Keystone makes them, you can get them at Mouser.

[@georgeprice4700]

Try little bits of tubing. Take a plug to the hardware store and see what fits.

[@RobertNolan]

I like how you can't stress enough how important the power supply is for boards. You can have all the pedals in the world but a bad power supply and poor cable connections are the difference in that things performance. It's like buying a race car and putting 87 octane in it.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Definitely not sense in buy $200+ pedals and using a noisy supply with them. The foundation of good tone is a quality power supply and cables.

[@douglas3103]

What size wire do you recommend, if I just wanted to buy a spool? 24 AWG ??? Thanks! Love the channel!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Ideally you just re-use existing ones, there's really no benefit to making them from scratch. The molded end on these is more robust than a soldered version for this application. I would look for a coax that can handle the voltage properly of your pedals and go from there.

[@clarencefernando9925]

Great video! Question: Can I use 24awg stranded 2 core wires instead of 22awg? I've read that 22awg is the standard used in power cable connectors. Thanks

[@bpabustan]

I am hearing Dann Huff and GIant on the background NICE!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes! The best

[@bpabustan]

@@VertexEffectsInc been a fan of CCM musicians during the late 80s....

[@VertexEffectsInc]

bpabustan I think he was even doing some of the Amy Grant stuff back in the late 70s

[@bpabustan]

@@VertexEffectsInc As far as I can recall, he started as guitarist of Whiteheart (a Christian version of Toto) started working with Amy Grant on Straight Ahead album. He is first heard with this WICKED guitar solo on Where Do You Hide Your Heart. After leaving Whiteheart and gaining exposure with Amy Grant, he became like the Steve Lukather of Nashville during the 80s, though he also worked with Michael Jackson and some other recordings in California. His work with David Benoit on the album Freedom At Midnight is one of my favorite works of Dann Huff.

[@dedwardsthebass]

Would the same technique work on #4 if you extended it with another plug for the purposes of making a Current Tripler?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes

[@SaulRamirez-rk9nj]

Amazing content brother! I have a question. Would it be just as effective to snip down the wire length and just re-solder the red and black wires back together without having to do anything to the DC ends of the wires that came with my power supply? If so, are there any extra tips you might have? Thank you!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You could do that too but I don't think it will be as stable - long term - compared to re-terminating the ends. The other complication is it would be difficult to do the parallel cables or voltage doublers in that fashion. But, YES, that will work as you've described, it just won't be as clean. You'll want to head shrink the inner conductors as well as the outside to be sure you don't get a short.

[@SaulRamirez-rk9nj]

Vertex Effects Thank you Doc!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@SaulRamirez-rk9nj my pleasure

[@mprs18]

Great Vid, slightly unrelated but I can't find the answer anywhere. Is it better to mount a power supply on the top of the board or the bottom? if space isn't an issue on top and there is plenty of room underneath. Is it just convenience or is there more to it?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If you have a switching power supply, you can get away with putting any place on the board for the most part without issue. If you have a linear supply, you need to be careful as many digital effects will have some noise issues in this environment, also some pedal with clocks in them, like phaser, flanger, chorus. Also, Wah pedals with inductors and have issues if it gets too close to the transformer. You can look at my recommended power supplies in the links and most of those are switching power supplies as opposed to linear supplies.

[@rgr4929]

If I wanted to build my dc cables from scratch, what cable do you recommend? Please tell what diameter or characteristics should it have. Should it be shielded in any way or a normal cable should do?? I am not a pro in this matters...any info is appreciated! Thank you very much.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I don't recommend it, it's not an advantage like for your instrument or patch cables. The molded ends are usually more robust than the DIY ends from KobiConn that I use. If you were looking for a DC cable, any coax will work that meets the voltage and current requirements of the pedal. I'd look for something around maybe 1A of current and 18VDC for the specs.

[@ArodsVideoChannel]

Hello Mason. I’m creating a few Y-Cables for my pedal board.I wanted to know if there would be a noise problem or any problems for that matter,for two T.C. Electronic Bona fide Buffers joined by a Y-Cable? Also digital Pedals?(T.C. Electronics flashback and Hall of fame) Thanks in advance!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Test it. I wouldn't do it with any digital pedals like the Flashback or Hall of Fame. Only low current analog pedals that don't have an internal clock like a phaser, chorus, tremolo, etc.

[@EhrosmithTV]

Hi Mason! Im just curious about the Current Doubler / Y-Splitter Cable.. There were Current Booster Cables available in the market.. My question is, were these current booster cables wired the same with yours? I can't make a DIY cable as of this time, so Im planning to buy a Current Booster Cable and use it as a Y-Splliter cable instead.. Is it okay if I do that? Thanks!!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

A Current Doubler is the same as the Y-cable you're just doing it on the power supply end rather than the pedal end.

[@craigheadland3210]

Hello and Merry festive period and all that jazz! Is it ok to modify a voodoo lab cable in the same way as the Strymon cables? I need a y cable to power 2 drive pedals and I have some spare cables lying around. Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, they're just shielded but same idea, just treat the shield as the black wire on the Strymon.

[@craigheadland3210]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank you!

[@armandojauregui2412]

Hi Mason, quick question, I have a pedal that needs 24v, 1A and center positive, is there a way use voltage doubler and current doubler at the same time?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You'll need 2x 12V outputs first of all, and something that provides 1A output - what's the pedal?

[@HasyirIbrahim]

Hey Mason! If most pedal takes center negative plug, shouldn't you wire the red(tip) to the outside and the black to the inner tab? Im not sure how power works. please enlighten me

[@VertexEffectsInc]

We provided diagrams in the video for each polarity.

[@jazhisyam]

Hi Mason, I was just wondering, for the OneSpot CS12, in one of your replies, you mentioned that the power cables that came with the pack can sometimes be inconsistent when it comes to the wiring of the hot and ground. meaning to say, some power cable was wired red to the tip (the way it suppose to) where as some were wired black to the tip (on both ends). is it true? And also another thing, as for the AC wire where they barrelled it in RED, was it meant for AC only? or it is just like any of the other coloured cables? Cos I am planning to shorten them up and attach a Kobiconn in one end, and plug it to my whammy. Can I do that? Sorry for the number of questions.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I've only found this to be true on Truetone, it's always a good idea to check. For the color coding refer to the manufacturer - there's not a standard. For some it's just taking 2.1mm to 2.5mm, others it's 2.5mm and reverse polarity.

[@jazhisyam]

@@VertexEffectsInc Got it. Appreciate it Mason!

[@ShaunZimmerman668]

Mason what are the zip ties for just to make sure the housing of the jack doesn't come apart or? and have u had that problem without the zip ties?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes and yes, or you can epoxy them shut like Best Tronics does however once you do that and you have a failure (which is more often the cable than the plug) you can reuse it. I typically re-terminate the side that connects to the power supply.

[@JoeTaylor-hx8gv]

What does the cable tie that you put on the dc cable up against the plug do?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Just holds it in place better for security.

[@daviiifigueiredo7773]

If you wanted to use custom size dc power cable. Which one would you advise ?

[@scuttlepuddle]

is there anything i can do to lower the voltage? like from 18v and a cable that can make the output 9v?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Truetone makes this product.

[@tdhayes1]

When doubling (current or voltage) and you cut off the strain relief, what keeps the connection tight/protected? Is the housing w/zip tie strong enough for plugging/unplugging force not to pull the wires from the solder joint?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Solder and the zip tie around the housing. Ideally these are on your power supply side, not pedals so they are somewhat protected.

[@tdhayes1]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks for your reply! I watch ur vids every day! What do you think of the epoxy method used by Best-Tronics? Working on a new board and pretty much bought everything you suggested for making power and signal cables. Working with a Pedaltrain Nano 24, TC Electronics Buffers (in and out), Voodoo Labs Power 3 plus and X8 and about 16 pedals. Big questions about pedal order. Some of my pedals dont fit into neat categories (Keely Darkside, CB RAH & Sabbara Cadabra for instance). I'll check out your memberships and get some expert advice. T

[@SaulRamirez-rk9nj]

Hi Mason, I tried my best looking through the comments to find the answer to this question, so my apologies if you’ve already answered it. Would it be possible and safe to use the current doubler method on more than just two power outputs? I have a pedal that can be powered with 300mA, BUT has a feature that is only usable when powered by 1500mA. I have a Zuma so I was wondering the likelihood of it working if I were to try and combine the current from three of the 500mA outputs. Thanks!

[@illicitenergy3307]

this is what I was looking for also

[@SaulRamirez-rk9nj]

@@illicitenergy3307 I ended up trying it and it works!

[@illicitenergy3307]

@@SaulRamirez-rk9nj thanks!

[@herbertsanpascual4357]

hi! im planning to cut my dc cables to length but i have wires with the same color. how do you distinguish which one is positive and negative? tnx

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You’ll need a multimeter

[@sebastiangutierrez2962]

For the current doubler (parallel connection) the outlets must be dame current?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No, but you'll only get the amount of the combined current, so if it's on 100mA output and one 200mA output, you'll only get 300mA.

[@gliceriojr.urdaneta2391]

Hi! Is the Y-cable/splitter same exact functionwith daisy chain? Thanks.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Same cable (y splitter, current doubler, and daisy chain) yes.

[@musiczambrano]

Will these cable configurations work with one of those FURMAN pedal board power supplies?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Not sure...haven't compared

[@tecschooldropout]

What if you are starting with a center-positive adapter cable? (the red ones that come with the CS12) I want to keep it as a center-positive adapter, but just with a right angle plug. Should I wire the hot wire to the outside or the tip? What does "center negative" mean relative to "center positive" and which one means that the hot wire is wired to the tip? Because if I start with a cable that is already a center positive adapter, could I potentially be converting it back to center negative?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You have to determine which side the polarity is flipped. You can do this with a multimeter and then solder the new end with the right polarity to mirror what you want.

[@yourotheralterego]

Hey Mason, I’m trying to make a power cable for my H9. I’m using the voodoo labs reverse polarity cable (red one) since a regular cable jack doesn’t fit. I’m just trying to make it shorter. If i leave the red side to plug into my H9, do I still reverse the ground & hot wires on the power supply side? I’ve tried both ways, but no luck with either. Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You’ll have to use your multimeter- I’m not sure which side they reverse the polarity on.

[@yourotheralterego]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks, will do. Does it matter which side is reversed? Or do they both have to be reversed?