The best power supplies for your pedalboard

The complete guide to investing in a quality power supply for your pedalboard!

You’ve invested thousands of euros to build the pedalboard of your dreams, with an impressive collection of pedals and effects (yes, we’re all the same!), but all to the detriment of an element essential to the proper functioning of it all: power!

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know before choosing the perfect feed for your setup, as well as our selection of the best brands on the market.

What you need to know about power supplies before you start

Before diving into the world of power supplies, it’s essential to understand the specific needs of each pedal on your pedalboard. Here are four crucial points to check to avoid any potential problems:

• Voltage (Volts): always observe the voltage recommended by the pedal manufacturer, usually noted next to the power connector.
• DC or AC: Make sure you know whether your pedal operates in DC or AC mode. Most modern pedals operate in DC mode.
• Polarity: for continuous pedals, check the polarity of the connector. The standard convention is to have the “+” in the center, but some pedals may have the polarity reversed.
• Current (mA): knowing the current consumption of each pedal is essential. Choose a power supply capable of delivering the total current required by all your pedals.

The different types of pedalboard power supplies

There are three main types of pedalboard power supply: transformers, power supplies and batteries. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

• 1 – Transformers: these power supplies use a transformer to isolate each output, thus avoiding ground loops between pedals. However, they can generate noise due to the AC/DC conversion directly in the power supply unit.
• 2 – Power supplies: offer a practical solution with multiple outputs, but may require more complex wiring. Some units feature galvanic isolation to minimize interference.
• 3 – Batteries: simple to use, battery-powered power supplies are portable, but require frequent replacement and can become costly over the long term.

Note also that some of your pedals are directly equipped with a battery slot. But the problem with batteries is that they can give out in the middle of a concert…

There are two technologies used in today’s power supplies:

• 1 – Galvanic isolation: uses a transformer to isolate each output, thus avoiding ground loops between pedals. However, this can cause noise problems related to mains frequency.
• 2 – Chopping: operates continuously and uses a chip to chop the signal at high frequency, providing pseudo-isolation. This technology eliminates mains noise and allows higher output currents.

How to choose the right pedal power supply?

The choice of power supply depends on the configuration of your pedalboard and the characteristics of your pedals. Here are some recommendations depending on your needs:

• Analog pedals: a “1 Spot” power supply, i.e. a single power supply with a daisy chain, is generally sufficient for a small number of analog pedals.
• Analog + digital combination: for a mix of analog and digital, a combination of a daisy chain for analog pedals and dedicated power supplies for each digital pedal is recommended.
• Vintage pedals : for vintage pedals requiring galvanic isolation, a dedicated daisy chain or galvanically isolated power supply is required.
• Tube pedals: tube pedals require a power supply capable of delivering higher currents.
• Complex pedalboards: for pedal collectors, we recommend several power supplies, each with several isolated outputs.

• Cabling tips: When installing your pedalboard, be sure to use quality cables to minimize interference and unwanted noise. Pedal order can also influence sound performance.
• Advanced technologies: Some manufacturers incorporate advanced technologies such as linear voltage regulators to ensure a clean, stable power supply, minimizing the risk of noise.

Our selection of the 10 best power supply brands

Cioks

Founded in 1991 in Denmark, Cioks offers a wide range of sophisticated products manufactured at their factory in Poland. Cioks power supplies feature isolated outputs, adjustable voltage, a general voltage selector for switching between 120 and 230 volts, and a toroidal transformer (an efficient and compact type of electrical transformer).

Cioks offers a variety of models, some of which feature LINK technology allowing multiple power supplies to be connected via a single power cable. In collaboration with Eventide, Cioks has developed power supplies specially designed for digital pedals.

Palmer

Palmera renowned brand in the field of pedalboard power supplies, offers a variety of high-quality solutions. Founded in Germany, Palmer offers robust power supplies with isolated outputs to ensure a clean power supply. Their products often incorporate advanced features, offering flexibility to guitarists.

Voodoo Lab

California-based Voodoo Lab occupies a prime position in the world of pedalboard power supplies. Handcrafted, their products are distinguished by exceptional build quality. The Voodoo Lab range offers a selection of models to suit different needs, from the powerful Mondo to simpler options. Each Voodoo Lab power supply is precision-engineered to deliver a stable, clean power supply.

Strymon

Strymonrenowned for its quality effects pedals, also offers power supplies to complement its ecosystem. Their focus on performance and sound quality is reflected in their power supplies. Strymon products like the Zuma and Ojai incorporate advanced features to meet the demands of professional musicians, while maintaining an elegant aesthetic.

Harley Benton

Harley BentonHarley Benton, a brand renowned for its value for money, offers reliable and affordable power supplies. Their products are designed to meet the needs of guitarists with varying budgets. Harley Benton offers a range of power supplies with isolated outputs, guaranteeing a clean power supply for pedals.

Truetone

Truetonewith its “1 Spot Pro” series, stands out for its modern power supply technology. Their innovative approach offers powerful, flexible solutions for guitarists. Truetone power supplies are renowned for their silence, robustness and ease of use.

T-Rex

T-Rexfrom Denmark, excels in the manufacture of effects pedals and power supplies. Their approach guarantees seamless integration between pedals and power supplies. T-Rex offers a wide range of power supplies, each designed to meet the specific needs of different guitarists.

Anasounds K+

Who said a power pedal had to be ugly? Anasounds K+a brand developed by our favorite Frenchmen, offers innovative pedalboard power solutions in addition to cool design. Their unique approach incorporates smart features, such as adjustable outputs, to meet the specific requirements of modern musicians.

Finally, it’s worth noting that some pedalboard manufacturers offer pedalboards with integrated power supplies. Read our article on the best pedalboards on the market to find out more!

Finally…

Choosing the right power supply(s) isn’t just a question of budget (from €50 to €200 and more, there’s something for everyone), it’s above all an essential choice to ensure your pedalboard runs smoothly. By understanding the specific needs of your pedals and choosing the right power supply technology, you can avoid noise problems and ensure optimum performance.

Don’t hesitate to comment on this article with your preferences in terms of power supplies and brands!