Mobile rig w/ CIOKS 4 & a laptop power bank. It works! Pretty silent, runs 7 pedals (2 digital - GFI Specular Tempus & Boss RC500) plus Morningstar MC8. I get 7 or so hours on a 27,000 Milliamp power cell, powering about 800 milliamps of current. That and my fishman loudbox mini charge, and I’m completely A/C-free.
i went to an iso brick from a daisy chain after watching this, all the noise problems are gone, iso brick is good, my brother went with a truetone cs12 recently and he got rid of all his noise too. both of those seem like a great option
The MXR 238 has two transformers on the power pcb. They look like in house custom jobs with a nice Dunlop label. It looks like one tap from one transformer and the 4 remaining outputs from the other transformer feed each board, there are two distribution boards leading to the panel outs, one inverted above the other, it looks very nice inside, but I couldn’t separate the three boards to have a good look! (Good solder joints not a board connector.) Money well spent. The selector switch on the one spot, only applies to the mains input voltage, the 9Vac regulated out on the front is always 9Vac. Minor points I suppose! Have a good day.
9:00 More current in MA that the power supply puts out than pedal requires in MA. This won't harm the pedal, just make sure that the power supply matches in Volts what the pedal requires. If the pedal is a 9V, then the power supply must be at 9V. If the pedal requires 12V, then the power supply must match that requirement at 12V. The pedal only draws in MA what it needs to run properly. Just make sure that the pedal does not draw MORE than the power supply puts out.
I ended up buying the Cioks Ciokolate because of this video. Went from a Pedal Power Plus 2 and a Voodoo Labs 4x4 to just the Ciokolate, way less noise.
Excellent info. I got a little confused about the power supply technology description. In the electrical engineering arena, we typically think of a switch mode supplies as noisy. This is because they literally switch on and off to reduce the voltage. Linear supplies are often though of as “quiet” or “low noise” because they don’t switch; they drop voltage by dissipating the energy as heat. I’ll definitely have to look into how these work. Thanks for sharing.
Engineer and guitar player here, i'm confused too. I think the best solution apart from battery, is the use of a transformer and a linear regulator, that way you are isolating the noise from the power grid and not adding any harmonic/noise with the linear regulator.
Oh that's very interesting! I always say that I can learn something new every day and today is no different! So the linear ps like my 3 VoodooLabs are all utilizing a small transformer that can introduce small amounts of noise/hum when in close proximity to my effect pedals..... I knew this but I *didn't* *know* that the ones with a steel case were impervious to this problem because the heavy case shielded it versus the *aluminum* version (which I didn't know they switched production from steel to aluminum shells) and for that I thank you for educating me! Love your channel!!!!!
I currently have a power supply that has 6 output cables, so only 6 pedals can be on. It worked perfectly. However, I have ordered a few more pedals. I guess I'll buy one of these power supplies. Thank you.
Truetone Pro series (CS7 and CS12) are not fully switch mode, because they both use linear regulators, from what I've researched online. So it's not just the AC on the CS12 that makes it hybrid. The new Voodoo Lab PP3/PP3+ series are also using that same technology. DC7 is on the other hand, fully switch mode.
I have the Strymon Zuma. * It has 9 outputs, which I need for my large pedal board. * Each output is 500mA, which is DOUBLE what Voodoo Labs can power. * Two of the outputs have a switch for 9v, 18v, or 12v, so it can power most anything. * It has a 24v output, to power a Strymon Ojai, if you so need. (I don't, but I am glad to have that functionality.)
Those are great and similar in features to the Cioks supply - which has 660mA per output and each output is variable from 9-18V, along with the expansion options for other Cioks supplies.
@@ciokspowersuppliesforeffec7533 Thank you for the response. I am all about oddball, weird, and stuff few have heard of. At least as far as I am aware, I think CIOKS definitely qualifies. In other news, some of the pedals on my board are the Spaceman Mercury IV, the Astronomer, and the Blackbird (named after the SR-71). This was completely non-intentional, but I ended up with an aviation/space theme to my pedalboard. If only your 8-slot supply was called the DC-8, it would replace the Strymon, just on principle.
I have a 2-Notes Le Clean that draws 500mA/12Vdc, an Eventide H90 that draws 1,000mA/12Vdc and an Alesis SR18 drawing 500mA/12Vdc. That is a total of 2,000mA and I haven't said anything about the 9Vdc pedals I have. All of my pedals are large What do you recommend for a pedal PS?
What is switch mode? Can you post up a video where you explain this pedal and electronic stuff? I played for many years, I just do not understand this electric stuff very well.
When you contact Sweetwater ask for Aric Ficek Sweetwater Sound Sales Engineer!!! He has helped me many times and is very knowledgeable, great person and has great communication skills!!!
Just got a Cioks DC7 to use with my HX Stomp and a couple of drives and a MIDI controller I pair with it. Love the low profile and easy mounting, perfect for putting under a smaller board like a PT Nano or Metro
Mason thank you so much for doing this. The voodoo lab is something I’ve used close to 20 years now but with the current pedals I have like a Strymon Iridium & Flint, it’s causing my board to have some noise issues. Looks like I’m going to have to plunk down some dough for a more modern power supply.
@@foxns7 Yes it comes with everything you need. Power supply and cables for powering pedals. It's isolated too so it's very quiet. I have 8 pedals hooked up on my board now and very little noise.
The voodoo lab pedal boards with the attached power supplies are perfect. I bought the dingbat board with the Mondo supply and it's absolutely amazing.
Hi, I´m new to the usage of analog pedals and I´d like to know: at what point do I need to start usin´ a power supply? For now, I just use a ehx bass clone and a proco RAT for bass. Let´s say if I wanted to add one more ...?
Super helpful AND timely video. I’ve been totally overwhelmed at the different PS options that are now available. Now I get it. And who getter to explain the differences!? Thanks, Mason. 👍🏼
Now I understand thank you for this video because I buy recently a boss rv6 pedal from Japan and its not compatible from my psu no power sign even the cables from the input to out put is connected same psu that I use some of my boss pedal. I try to put my psu in a transformer 110v I know it's a dump idea even it required 230v I'm surprised it's working and it's led is blinking just 2sec. But still not compatible ..
You need to check the current of your power supply versus the current of the RV-6. If you the RV-6 draws more than the current maximum you will need a new supply. The input voltage from your wall AC should match your country of origin, i.e. if you're in the USA it should be a 120V power supply, but some of these wall warts are also switch mode and as long as the AC plug fits you won't have an issue. My guess is the supply just doesn't have enough current for your pedal. Your Sweetwater Sales Engineer should be able to help you with this easily.
@@VertexEffectsInc thanks for the great idea, I already check the current but I'm still wondering why my others boss pedal from my old psu is working properly but for my new boss rv6 is dead connection no sign of power and input,output sound ?
@@soulcaliber256 some of the older Boss PSU's for the pedals in the 80's was actually 12VDC, and using a batteries would get stepped up in the circuitry internally...not knowing your supply - it's hard for me to evaluate what the issue might be. Do you have a battery to try comparatively? Don't the RV-6's still have a battery clip?
I buy a new psu yeah it's working now. Thanks you so much. Your video is really helpful especially different countries have different electric power current so you need a psu that have a convertible in any power current.
I have the MXR Isobrick, and it's great. Interested in a CIOKS with 12+ outputs, but it seems like none of those have more than one 18v, yet the CIOKS DC7 allows all 7 outputs to be 18v. It's not very straight forward when researching these.
Mason, prepare yourself for a long comment... I've been working with David Mikautadze for years. He's never steered me wrong. But, I'm nervous about powering my Harley Benton Thunder 99 Power Amp Pedal. I'm putting together a pedalboard with my Thunder 99 that is 24 Volts. The board will be powered with a Truetone 1 SPOT PRO CS12 power supply. QUESTION: I need to know if I can power the Thunder 99 pedal SAFELY, by utilizing 2 of the 12 Volt outputs and a Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Voltage Doubler Adapter Cable, and a Truetone CYR Reverse Polarity Converter Cable? The Thunder 99's power supply says it's 24V, 5.0-A. And it's center pin polarity is positive. Sheesh! That was a mouthful. I understand answers here is a long shot, but I thought I would just throw it out there anyway. David helped me put all of that together. Just making sure before I make my purchase. FYI, I do want to stick with the 1Spot.
I'm glad he touched on the power drawing question. If I understood correctly, I don't need to be afraid that my pedal will get fried if i plug it into a higher output power supply because the pedal will only draw as much power as it needs, right?
the salesman at sweetwater talked me into buying the 1-spot combo pk. instead of the BOSS psa-120 that is spec'd for my old Boss ME-50 . the price was almost the same. & the selling point was that i could daisy chain a few more pedals with the 1spot combo. when i opened the package ( CUDO's for sweetwater; our mail carriers here are not good. & sure enough, it was raining the day it came... sweetwater had wrapped it in plastic, not once but 2 plastic bags !!! ) ok. now i hooked the power supply to my boss me50 & all it would do was blink every LED on the unit, in unison, at the same time . i quickly unplugged it & checked polarity, my AC receptical, inspected the me50 unit, i wasnt using the daisy chain cord, just the 1spot. i had a power adapter i was using for the me50 that worked, but i had pieced it together , from an old AC wall adapter that , with my DVOM , checked correct voltage & current, i cut the cord to swap polarity, cord was old & so was unit. but it powered the me50 just fine with no probs.. (im actually still using it) so, the malfunction belonged to the 1spot.. well ive been studying power supplies design & how, what they are. the 1spot uses a transistor/op-amp to step down the voltage & is a switching class, vs. my pieced together AC adapter which is a transformer with coils of magnet wire or inductors of different guage & length to step down the voltage & a bridge rectifyer. or a linear class. the boss me-50 isnt working with a switching class power supply. i suppose that the me50 it may need a constant current and the switching class is giving it fits.. anyway.. i still got this 1spot brand new in the box & sure wish i had bought the dang PSA-120 😫
Want to power your Argon8, Digitone Keys, MicroFreak, HydraSynth and Minilogue? Grab a Cioks7, plenty of parallel adapters, extra center-positive red flex cables (and purple ones for Korg products) and there you go. What I don't get is how the DC7 is able to power the Pearl Mimic Pro drum module. It shouldn't be possible but here it is right in front of my eyes.
Mason is GOAT. one quick question, he/you (idk who's reading this) mentioned that your power supply providing beyond the current your pedals require is fine... now, for the electrical principle novice in the room, my understanding is that the same is NOT TRUE for voltage? a friend of mine brought home a new behringer pedal, plugged it in, it turned on for a millisecond, then turned off, and all of a sudden the room smelled like burnt rubber. looked at the power supply he plugged into it, and it was a big old 14V brick into (i assume) a 9V behringer drive pedal. assuming that is what caused it to immediately fry?
Not a pro, but my basic understanding would presume you’re correct. I believe he even mentioned it at the start of the video. If you feed higher/lower voltage current to your pedal than what it’s rated for, you could ruin it. That’s why the old voodoos are outdated. They cannot accommodate other voltages.
Man this was so help full .Thanks again for another killer video Mason .I literally came across this demo trying to find one of your videos on this subject . I'm doing some research on power supplies to go under the riser on my new Vertex 17"x10" pedal board that I just bought from Sweetwater ,no $#!+ . Might be stacking 2 Ciocks in stead of a mxr . I feel like I should invest in some Aflec with all the Dr. advice I've been getting lately lol.
I have a Bass Whammy Gen 2 and I am having difficulty trying to find a way to power it without having to use a separate power supply from my True Tone CS12. It runs 9vdc @ 1300mA. HEYULPP! Hahahahaha
@@VertexEffectsInc how can I do that? Current doubler? What’s the best current doubler to get? And would it be a problem if it does not reach the full 1300mA current draw requirements? Two high current slots on my CS12 would only get me to 1000mA draw.
I use a Caline P-1 power unit on my board. Been using this 1 for 4 yrs. At this time have 12 pedals going to it. It's not isolated or any of these other cool expensive fancy things that are talked about here. 12 pedals on board including 2 18v out of 1 out. 3 daisies that only use 2 outs for the board giving me outs at the beginning, middle and at the end. This way I can temporarily add a pedal somewhere to test or just use for whatever song needed. I've had as many as 17 pedals hooked up and it's dead silent. Course it helps that the last pedal is a silent modded 10 band EQ. But even with that turned off and a 496/500 bucket equipped L Paul going into a Boogie its quiet. Only paid $22 for this pwr unit 4 yrs ago cause at the time Ebay had Ebay bucks and I got $11 taken off the price. Now 2 yrs later while watching various items I found a brand new MXR 248 pwr unit being sold as open box but never used for $50. Bought it just in case and have played with it but not on my board. Never and I repeat NEVER had a single problem with this pwr unit. Course setting up the board I had to keep moving certain pedals around to get it silent as some pedals didn't like it's neighbor. But once that's set and I got enough stuff I liked on board haven't made any changes in 2-3 yrs now.
So in choosing an appropriate power supply in terms of power output, am I more interested in calculating the cumulative power requirements of all my pedals and then finding something that can supply at least that much total power? Or do I need to look at supplies on a per output level (this brick has 3 outputs rated for x milliamps and 5 outputs rated for y milliamps)?
Hi, Jason. For an isolated power supply you would just need to make sure that each output has enough current (mA) available for the pedal that you’re plugging into it. You’ll also want to make sure the required voltage on each output is a match. Thanks for your interest! Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1320, charlie_davis@sweetwater.com
Is this video still be answered? I Have a Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO 12-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply that i cannot seep to get rid of a hum... This video makes me believe a switch mode power supply vs a linear based. Just curious for feedback
I have 7 effects pedals but haven't mounted them on a board yet. They all are MXR and all have the DC connectors going to a power strip. If I mount them all on a board what is wrong with running my existing connectors to a power strip instead of a power supply? In other words plug the connectors into the pedals then plug them into the power strip and then plug the power strip into the wall socket. Anything wrong with doing that?
Hi, Delbert! Thanks for your total valid and honest question. In short, there’s nothing “wrong” with using a power strip. The advantages of using a power supply are: isolated grounded connections, mounting convenience and space, expansion (more pedals!). Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them! Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
I have a problem where my multi fx pedal requires 1000mA 9V DC. I can't find any power supplies that support that. Does that mean I have to use the mains supply or is there something that can help
Thanks for your question, it’s very timely with all the power hungry digital effects out on the market. While it’s unlikely you’ll find a pedal power supply with a 1A tap, there are plenty with multiple 500mA taps. With a junction cable for amperage (not voltage) you may be able to power your pedal. I say 'may' because some multifx need their proprietary wall power supply. Inquire with us or the manufacturer to make sure you get the appropriate items. Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them! Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
Hi, Is it ok to use one proper power board and to it add, connect a power brick that will power up three guitar pedals in total? I'm using Katana 50 amp and plan to get something like Boss noise suppressor, Revv G3, and a Korg tuner. Thanks 😁
Hi, Dejan. Yes, that will work fine. With that setup you'd be able to utilize the effects in your Katana along with whatever pedals you add in the front end. Thanks for your interest! Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1320, charlie_davis@sweetwater.com
Hey Mason Great review and advice on Power Supply units. I do have one question ... The majority of the pedals I use are 9v DC but I have one pedal that is 12v AC and wondered whether they can all be run off the same Power Supply. Any advice would be great. Many thanks and cheers from OZ. Pete 🎸
Thoughts on the Mission Engineering 529? I use one under my board and power it with a 10,000mAh phone portable battery bank and it goes well but I’m not sure how it goes compared to plugging in to the mains power
If you stick the adapter for the ISO brick underneath the pedal board too, which plugs into a powerstrip, or IEC adapter (as used in Warwick Rockboard's Mod 1, will it generate more noise?
Hi, Bhahmi. Great question! You will want to add up the current draw (aka amperage) for all of your pedals and make sure it doesn't exceed 1700mA total if you want to use it with the 1spot combo adapter. You can usually find this information in the manual or online. If it does exceed 1700mA, you will be better off getting an isolated power supply such as the 1spot CS12. Feel free to reach out with any other questions. Thanks! Jason Filloramo, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1281, Jason_Filloramo@sweetwater.com
What is the actual mA rating of the 18v 100mA out on the truetone? I want to plug my first gen pog into it, but the power supply for it is rated at 500 mA. I am worried that I will under power the pedal. Also, do you know what the current draw of the first gen pog is? I hear it is around 200 mA?
Hi, Steven! Thanks for your message, Happy Friday! The rating of each tap is as listed on the power supply. You may plug in a pedal with a lower power requirement or split to pedals that don't exceed the output level. If you plug in a pedal with a higher requirement, it won't work. The PSU for the original POG is 18V 500mA. I wouldn't try to power it with less. The Nano and Micro are both around 200mA. Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them! Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
so if my pedal requires 9v 300mA and the supply is 9v 500mA that is fine? But if the power supply was 18v instead it would not work? Thanks for the video, it is super helpful!
Hi and thanks for your message, hope you're well and safe. When splitting a power tap to multiple pedals, keep in mind that the two pedals on the split are no longer isolated and grounded from each other. This could lead to noise issues. The should also be of the same voltage and not have a higher current draw than the individual tap or to the power supply overall. I'm not a big fan of doing these splits in general however if it's one pedal, it's unlikely to cause issues if you pay attention to the previous points. Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them! Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
Im currently using the Roland PSU-1B adapter connected using a daisy chain. Seems to work fine and I dont reckon hearing any noise from the supply. But im curious, is there any issue with using daisy chains or adapters? Any advantages or disadvantages?
Daisy chaining isn't ideal, it's not isolated. Some pedals might do OK with it - typically analog distortion, overdrive, boost, devices are OK sharing power and don't require isolation. Some pedals that have internal clocking like a Phaser, Chorus, Flanger, etc. can sometimes have an issue and the clock speed will pulse through the signal even when the device is off and you can change the rate just by moving the speed knob on the pedal - even when it's off. More commonly, if you're using a combination of digital and analog pedals with varying current needs that push your supply to the limit, it can become problematic. The best litmus test is to try the pedals on battery, battery is the most isolated power you can get and will be the most quiet. You can compare the noise floor of the battery versus the supply and see where you are. Most pedals have internal battery compartments and if you plug in the DC supply input it'll bypass the battery so you can easily A/B without any extra gear needed.
Sorry to bother you guys but I've been looking for something for my pedal board im trying to build. I'm rocking my line 6 pod go and just thinking about running a wah and a over drive pedal into it. Any suggestions?
Hi, Korey! Thanks for your message, hope you're well and safe. We're here to help, so no bother at all. To best help you decide, we really need to have a discussion. There are so many options, and without knowing your taste or style or budget there's no way to know if the suggestion is right for you. Please contact us direct when you can! Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
Hi, Sith Enthusiast. So technically the pedalboard doesn’t require a power supply but all pedals are going to require some sort of power. That could be from a 9V battery, individual wall adapters, or one with multiple isolated outputs. Since most people using a pedalboard have multiple pedals that need to be powered, the best option is typically a power supply with multiple isolated outs. This provides the simplest solution that will be allow for fast set up times and also have the lowest noise. Thanks for your interest! Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1320, charlie_davis@sweetwater.com
Fuel your fun, worry-free! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe if this video helped you!
i want to chain my boss pedals,so can i used daisy chain for my PSA230 adapter?
@@pdepde9648 ye
Thanks bro
My dude did a phenomenal job explaining everything, bravo
Mobile rig w/ CIOKS 4 & a laptop power bank. It works! Pretty silent, runs 7 pedals (2 digital - GFI Specular Tempus & Boss RC500) plus Morningstar MC8. I get 7 or so hours on a 27,000 Milliamp power cell, powering about 800 milliamps of current. That and my fishman loudbox mini charge, and I’m completely A/C-free.
i went to an iso brick from a daisy chain after watching this, all the noise problems are gone, iso brick is good, my brother went with a truetone cs12 recently and he got rid of all his noise too. both of those seem like a great option
The MXR 238 has two transformers on the power pcb. They look like in house custom jobs with a nice Dunlop label.
It looks like one tap from one transformer and the 4 remaining outputs from the other transformer feed each board, there are two distribution boards leading to the panel outs, one inverted above the other, it looks very nice inside, but I couldn’t separate the three boards to have a good look! (Good solder joints not a board connector.)
Money well spent.
The selector switch on the one spot, only applies to the mains input voltage, the 9Vac regulated out on the front is always 9Vac.
Minor points I suppose!
Have a good day.
I got a Pedal Power 3 Plus from Sweetwater. Unless it blows up, I will never need another one.
This is the type of a doctor that will prescribe you the most expensive medicines
9:00 More current in MA that the power supply puts out than pedal requires in MA. This won't harm the pedal, just make sure that the power supply matches in Volts what the pedal requires. If the pedal is a 9V, then the power supply must be at 9V. If the pedal requires 12V, then the power supply must match that requirement at 12V.
The pedal only draws in MA what it needs to run properly. Just make sure that the pedal does not draw MORE than the power supply puts out.
I ended up buying the Cioks Ciokolate because of this video. Went from a Pedal Power Plus 2 and a Voodoo Labs 4x4 to just the Ciokolate, way less noise.
Is it really really worth it tho? I was thinking about it too but for the price can get 3 MXR
Excellent info. I got a little confused about the power supply technology description.
In the electrical engineering arena, we typically think of a switch mode supplies as noisy. This is because they literally switch on and off to reduce the voltage. Linear supplies are often though of as “quiet” or “low noise” because they don’t switch; they drop voltage by dissipating the energy as heat.
I’ll definitely have to look into how these work. Thanks for sharing.
Engineer and guitar player here, i'm confused too. I think the best solution apart from battery, is the use of a transformer and a linear regulator, that way you are isolating the noise from the power grid and not adding any harmonic/noise with the linear regulator.
Oh that's very interesting! I always say that I can learn something new every day and today is no different! So the linear ps like my 3 VoodooLabs are all utilizing a small transformer that can introduce small amounts of noise/hum when in close proximity to my effect pedals..... I knew this but I *didn't* *know* that the ones with a steel case were impervious to this problem because the heavy case shielded it versus the *aluminum* version (which I didn't know they switched production from steel to aluminum shells) and for that I thank you for educating me! Love your channel!!!!!
Great breakdown and info on power supplies. This video definitely changed my mind on what I think fits best with my pedalboard.
heck yea! Glad you liked it!
I currently have a power supply that has 6 output cables, so only 6 pedals can be on. It worked perfectly. However, I have ordered a few more pedals. I guess I'll buy one of these power supplies. Thank you.
Wow! This was really reveling, an eye opener. Thx!!
Truetone Pro series (CS7 and CS12) are not fully switch mode, because they both use linear regulators, from what I've researched online. So it's not just the AC on the CS12 that makes it hybrid. The new Voodoo Lab PP3/PP3+ series are also using that same technology. DC7 is on the other hand, fully switch mode.
I have the Strymon Zuma.
* It has 9 outputs, which I need for my large pedal board.
* Each output is 500mA, which is DOUBLE what Voodoo Labs can power.
* Two of the outputs have a switch for 9v, 18v, or 12v, so it can power most anything.
* It has a 24v output, to power a Strymon Ojai, if you so need. (I don't, but I am glad to have that functionality.)
Those are great and similar in features to the Cioks supply - which has 660mA per output and each output is variable from 9-18V, along with the expansion options for other Cioks supplies.
This video is the first I have ever heard of Cioks. Is that a new company?
@@ThatBaritoneGuitarGuy Hi, we've been making power supplies for pedals since 1991 so we're quite new if you consider the age of the Universe.
@@ThatBaritoneGuitarGuy They've been around since the 1990's.
@@ciokspowersuppliesforeffec7533 Thank you for the response. I am all about oddball, weird, and stuff few have heard of. At least as far as I am aware, I think CIOKS definitely qualifies.
In other news, some of the pedals on my board are the Spaceman Mercury IV, the Astronomer, and the Blackbird (named after the SR-71). This was completely non-intentional, but I ended up with an aviation/space theme to my pedalboard. If only your 8-slot supply was called the DC-8, it would replace the Strymon, just on principle.
I have a 2-Notes Le Clean that draws 500mA/12Vdc, an Eventide H90 that draws 1,000mA/12Vdc and an Alesis SR18 drawing 500mA/12Vdc. That is a total of 2,000mA and I haven't said anything about the 9Vdc pedals I have. All of my pedals are large What do you recommend for a pedal PS?
What is switch mode? Can you post up a video where you explain this pedal and electronic stuff? I played for many years, I just do not understand this electric stuff very well.
I use the CIOKS DC5. It’s solid, can adjust between 9v and 18v, and it’s quiet. Works for me. 😬
When you contact Sweetwater ask for Aric Ficek Sweetwater Sound Sales Engineer!!! He has helped me many times and is very knowledgeable, great person and has great communication skills!!!
mason explains everything so well, it's awesome, sweetwater is for the people
Just got a Cioks DC7 to use with my HX Stomp and a couple of drives and a MIDI controller I pair with it. Love the low profile and easy mounting, perfect for putting under a smaller board like a PT Nano or Metro
i got the cs12 from sweetwater, powers everything on my board except one pedal. worth the $
I have a huge board on a table for amp/guitar testing. I want quiet. Sounds like Cioks might be the one for me.
Mason thank you so much for doing this. The voodoo lab is something I’ve used close to 20 years now but with the current pedals I have like a Strymon Iridium & Flint, it’s causing my board to have some noise issues. Looks like I’m going to have to plunk down some dough for a more modern power supply.
truetone one spot is the choice
He teaches & explains everything so well!!
I bought the MXR Iso-Brick from Sweetwater last year. Worth every penny.
What else does it ship with? Does it have the power supply adapter? Need to know more about this item.
@@foxns7 Yes it comes with everything you need. Power supply and cables for powering pedals. It's isolated too so it's very quiet. I have 8 pedals hooked up on my board now and very little noise.
@@Supernautiloid tq. Much appreciated.
Just picked an ISO up. Where have you been all my life? 👍🏻
Thank you my dude, MXR has great review and the size is unbeatable. Great to hear it works for you and it’s quiet
The voodoo lab pedal boards with the attached power supplies are perfect. I bought the dingbat board with the Mondo supply and it's absolutely amazing.
I'd rather buy half a new guitar honestly. Temple Audio is the way to go.
Hi, I´m new to the usage of analog pedals and I´d like to know:
at what point do I need to start usin´ a power supply?
For now, I just use a ehx bass clone and a proco RAT for bass. Let´s say if I wanted to add one more ...?
Super helpful AND timely video. I’ve been totally overwhelmed at the different PS options that are now available. Now I get it. And who getter to explain the differences!? Thanks, Mason. 👍🏼
Now I understand thank you for this video because I buy recently a boss rv6 pedal from Japan and its not compatible from my psu no power sign even the cables from the input to out put is connected same psu that I use some of my boss pedal. I try to put my psu in a transformer 110v I know it's a dump idea even it required 230v I'm surprised it's working and it's led is blinking just 2sec. But still not compatible ..
You need to check the current of your power supply versus the current of the RV-6. If you the RV-6 draws more than the current maximum you will need a new supply. The input voltage from your wall AC should match your country of origin, i.e. if you're in the USA it should be a 120V power supply, but some of these wall warts are also switch mode and as long as the AC plug fits you won't have an issue. My guess is the supply just doesn't have enough current for your pedal. Your Sweetwater Sales Engineer should be able to help you with this easily.
@@VertexEffectsInc thanks for the great idea, I already check the current but I'm still wondering why my others boss pedal from my old psu is working properly but for my new boss rv6 is dead connection no sign of power and input,output sound ?
@@soulcaliber256 some of the older Boss PSU's for the pedals in the 80's was actually 12VDC, and using a batteries would get stepped up in the circuitry internally...not knowing your supply - it's hard for me to evaluate what the issue might be. Do you have a battery to try comparatively? Don't the RV-6's still have a battery clip?
I buy a new psu yeah it's working now. Thanks you so much.
Your video is really helpful especially different countries have different electric power current so you need a psu that have a convertible in any power current.
Got the CIOKS DC7 from you guys. Thanks for the vid
This man is the best. Thank you sir
I have the MXR Isobrick, and it's great. Interested in a CIOKS with 12+ outputs, but it seems like none of those have more than one 18v, yet the CIOKS DC7 allows all 7 outputs to be 18v. It's not very straight forward when researching these.
Hi, you could consider the DC7 + CIOKS 8 combo which will give you 15 outlets all switchable to 9, 12, 15 or 18V plus the USB.
@@ciokspowersuppliesforeffec7533 Thanks. I just realized that I can expand.
At 1:55, you mention some pedals can be up to 1A in current draw. Which one of these would have an output that high?
Fender LVL 12 FTW!
Mason, prepare yourself for a long comment... I've been working with David Mikautadze for years. He's never steered me wrong. But, I'm nervous about powering my Harley Benton Thunder 99 Power Amp Pedal. I'm putting together a pedalboard with my Thunder 99 that is 24 Volts. The board will be powered with a Truetone 1 SPOT PRO CS12 power supply. QUESTION: I need to know if I can power the Thunder 99 pedal SAFELY, by utilizing 2 of the 12 Volt outputs and a Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Voltage Doubler Adapter Cable, and a Truetone CYR Reverse Polarity Converter Cable? The Thunder 99's power supply says it's 24V, 5.0-A. And it's center pin polarity is positive. Sheesh! That was a mouthful. I understand answers here is a long shot, but I thought I would just throw it out there anyway. David helped me put all of that together. Just making sure before I make my purchase. FYI, I do want to stick with the 1Spot.
I'm glad he touched on the power drawing question. If I understood correctly, I don't need to be afraid that my pedal will get fried if i plug it into a higher output power supply because the pedal will only draw as much power as it needs, right?
the salesman at sweetwater talked me into buying the 1-spot combo pk. instead of the BOSS psa-120 that is spec'd for my old Boss ME-50 . the price was almost the same. & the selling point was that i could daisy chain a few more pedals with the 1spot combo. when i opened the package ( CUDO's for sweetwater; our mail carriers here are not good. & sure enough, it was raining the day it came... sweetwater had wrapped it in plastic, not once but 2 plastic bags !!! ) ok. now i hooked the power supply to my boss me50 & all it would do was blink every LED on the unit, in unison, at the same time . i quickly unplugged it & checked polarity, my AC receptical, inspected the me50 unit, i wasnt using the daisy chain cord, just the 1spot. i had a power adapter i was using for the me50 that worked, but i had pieced it together , from an old AC wall adapter that , with my DVOM , checked correct voltage & current, i cut the cord to swap polarity, cord was old & so was unit. but it powered the me50 just fine with no probs.. (im actually still using it) so, the malfunction belonged to the 1spot.. well ive been studying power supplies design & how, what they are. the 1spot uses a transistor/op-amp to step down the voltage & is a switching class, vs. my pieced together AC adapter which is a transformer with coils of magnet wire or inductors of different guage & length to step down the voltage & a bridge rectifyer. or a linear class. the boss me-50 isnt working with a switching class power supply. i suppose that the me50 it may need a constant current and the switching class is giving it fits.. anyway.. i still got this 1spot brand new in the box & sure wish i had bought the dang PSA-120 😫
I'm totally getting a Cioks for my bass rig! More RIG DOC please Sweetwater!!!!
Want to power your Argon8, Digitone Keys, MicroFreak, HydraSynth and Minilogue?
Grab a Cioks7, plenty of parallel adapters, extra center-positive red flex cables (and purple ones for Korg products)
and there you go.
What I don't get is how the DC7 is able to power the Pearl Mimic Pro drum module. It shouldn't be possible but here it is right in front of my eyes.
Wow, im blown away. Thanks for that presentation. I think Sweetwater should higher you on to do product presentation nice job.
Very insightful. Thanks for the post!
Mason is GOAT.
one quick question, he/you (idk who's reading this) mentioned that your power supply providing beyond the current your pedals require is fine... now, for the electrical principle novice in the room, my understanding is that the same is NOT TRUE for voltage? a friend of mine brought home a new behringer pedal, plugged it in, it turned on for a millisecond, then turned off, and all of a sudden the room smelled like burnt rubber. looked at the power supply he plugged into it, and it was a big old 14V brick into (i assume) a 9V behringer drive pedal. assuming that is what caused it to immediately fry?
Not a pro, but my basic understanding would presume you’re correct. I believe he even mentioned it at the start of the video. If you feed higher/lower voltage current to your pedal than what it’s rated for, you could ruin it. That’s why the old voodoos are outdated. They cannot accommodate other voltages.
Useful video. Thanks.
What do you think about the Strymon Zuma and Ojai?
Wonderful, in the same category as the switch mode supplies and more direct competitor to the Cioks.
I appreciate the pedal board doctor and love sweetwater! 🤘🏻🎸
can the two power supply be connected to power supply?
Man this was so help full .Thanks again for another killer video Mason .I literally came across this demo trying to find one of your videos on this subject . I'm doing some research on power supplies to go under the riser on my new Vertex 17"x10" pedal board that I just bought from Sweetwater ,no $#!+ . Might be stacking 2 Ciocks in stead of a mxr . I feel like I should invest in some Aflec with all the Dr. advice I've been getting lately lol.
Super super super helpful. Straight to the point what a legend. Thanks so much
My suggestion is get the strymon Zuma and its extensions like I did. Nothing more needs to be said. Yes they're that good
They're great and in the switch-mode category. I like them a lot, I also like the Cioks as well for the extension supplies. Can't go wrong either way.
I have a Bass Whammy Gen 2 and I am having difficulty trying to find a way to power it without having to use a separate power supply from my True Tone CS12. It runs 9vdc @ 1300mA. HEYULPP! Hahahahaha
If it’s DC you could parallel two to three high current outputs on any of the switch mode supplies.
@@VertexEffectsInc how can I do that? Current doubler? What’s the best current doubler to get? And would it be a problem if it does not reach the full 1300mA current draw requirements? Two high current slots on my CS12 would only get me to 1000mA draw.
I have more 2 pedals than a say MXR 10. What’s the solution besides buying a second brick.
Is it true that the one spot pro cs12 can power line hx stomp from a single output?
I use a Caline P-1 power unit on my board. Been using this 1 for 4 yrs. At this time have 12 pedals going to it. It's not isolated or any of these other cool expensive fancy things that are talked about here. 12 pedals on board including 2 18v out of 1 out. 3 daisies that only use 2 outs for the board giving me outs at the beginning, middle and at the end. This way I can temporarily add a pedal somewhere to test or just use for whatever song needed. I've had as many as 17 pedals hooked up and it's dead silent. Course it helps that the last pedal is a silent modded 10 band EQ. But even with that turned off and a 496/500 bucket equipped L Paul going into a Boogie its quiet. Only paid $22 for this pwr unit 4 yrs ago cause at the time Ebay had Ebay bucks and I got $11 taken off the price. Now 2 yrs later while watching various items I found a brand new MXR 248 pwr unit being sold as open box but never used for $50. Bought it just in case and have played with it but not on my board. Never and I repeat NEVER had a single problem with this pwr unit. Course setting up the board I had to keep moving certain pedals around to get it silent as some pedals didn't like it's neighbor. But once that's set and I got enough stuff I liked on board haven't made any changes in 2-3 yrs now.
So in choosing an appropriate power supply in terms of power output, am I more interested in calculating the cumulative power requirements of all my pedals and then finding something that can supply at least that much total power? Or do I need to look at supplies on a per output level (this brick has 3 outputs rated for x milliamps and 5 outputs rated for y milliamps)?
Hi, Jason. For an isolated power supply you would just need to make sure that each output has enough current (mA) available for the pedal that you’re plugging into it. You’ll also want to make sure the required voltage on each output is a match.
Thanks for your interest!
Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1320, charlie_davis@sweetwater.com
Is this video still be answered? I Have a Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO 12-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply that i cannot seep to get rid of a hum... This video makes me believe a switch mode power supply vs a linear based. Just curious for feedback
If im a home amatuer with no plans of gigging heavy. What's the best decent cheap pedal power supply?
MXR ISO Brick or Truetone, the smaller supplies from Truetone like the CS6 or CS7 are wonderful and great value.
How bout the voodoo labs 3?
I have 7 effects pedals but haven't mounted them on a board yet. They all are MXR and all have the DC connectors going to a power strip. If I mount them all on a board what is wrong with running my existing connectors to a power strip instead of a power supply? In other words plug the connectors into the pedals then plug them into the power strip and then plug the power strip into the wall socket. Anything wrong with doing that?
Hi, Delbert! Thanks for your total valid and honest question.
In short, there’s nothing “wrong” with using a power strip. The advantages of using a power supply are: isolated grounded connections, mounting convenience and space, expansion (more pedals!).
Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them!
Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
I have a problem where my multi fx pedal requires 1000mA 9V DC. I can't find any power supplies that support that. Does that mean I have to use the mains supply or is there something that can help
Thanks for your question, it’s very timely with all the power hungry digital effects out on the market. While it’s unlikely you’ll find a pedal power supply with a 1A tap, there are plenty with multiple 500mA taps. With a junction cable for amperage (not voltage) you may be able to power your pedal. I say 'may' because some multifx need their proprietary wall power supply. Inquire with us or the manufacturer to make sure you get the appropriate items.
Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them!
Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
mason is irreplacable
Hi,
Is it ok to use one proper power board and to it add, connect a power brick that will power up three guitar pedals in total? I'm using Katana 50 amp and plan to get something like Boss noise suppressor, Revv G3, and a Korg tuner.
Thanks 😁
Hi, Dejan. Yes, that will work fine. With that setup you'd be able to utilize the effects in your Katana along with whatever pedals you add in the front end.
Thanks for your interest!
Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1320, charlie_davis@sweetwater.com
Hey Mason Great review and advice on Power Supply units. I do have one question ... The majority of the pedals I use are 9v DC but I have one pedal that is 12v AC and wondered whether they can all be run off the same Power Supply. Any advice would be great.
Many thanks and cheers from OZ. Pete 🎸
Can I plug a Pedal asking for 9v into a 12v supply?
I have the 1 Spot, its not bad. But honestly those Cioks look super enticing...
What if I have pedals that require Ac or dc and positive or negative polarity
Great and informative video. Thank you for posting. Making a decision real soon.
Where can I get the budda vertex wah 😂
Thoughts on the Mission Engineering 529? I use one under my board and power it with a 10,000mAh phone portable battery bank and it goes well but I’m not sure how it goes compared to plugging in to the mains power
Excellent presentation
I got an on stage ps901 power supply
Do a cheapest power supply for under a 100.00 .
Like the show😊
Great run down mang.
If you stick the adapter for the ISO brick underneath the pedal board too, which plugs into a powerstrip, or IEC adapter (as used in Warwick Rockboard's Mod 1, will it generate more noise?
What about EHX pedals? Can all of that psa power an EHX pedals safely, I am wondering cause EHX has negative center polarity?? Please answer me.
Short answer yes .Neg. center is the standard .If you ment pos.center you can get a adapter cable for like $5
Just buy the Strymon power supplies they are great
They're great too, they fall into the Switch Mode category, and would stack up well to what we talked about in this video undoubtedly.
Great video very informative
great video
I got 8 ..9volt boss pedals so Can i used the 1spot combo adapter to run all my pedals?
Hi, Bhahmi. Great question! You will want to add up the current draw (aka amperage) for all of your pedals and make sure it doesn't exceed 1700mA total if you want to use it with the 1spot combo adapter. You can usually find this information in the manual or online. If it does exceed 1700mA, you will be better off getting an isolated power supply such as the 1spot CS12.
Feel free to reach out with any other questions. Thanks!
Jason Filloramo, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1281, Jason_Filloramo@sweetwater.com
Thank you 🙏🙏 for your kind information..
What is the actual mA rating of the 18v 100mA out on the truetone? I want to plug my first gen pog into it, but the power supply for it is rated at 500 mA. I am worried that I will under power the pedal. Also, do you know what the current draw of the first gen pog is? I hear it is around 200 mA?
Hi, Steven! Thanks for your message, Happy Friday!
The rating of each tap is as listed on the power supply. You may plug in a pedal with a lower power requirement or split to pedals that don't exceed the output level. If you plug in a pedal with a higher requirement, it won't work. The PSU for the original POG is 18V 500mA. I wouldn't try to power it with less. The Nano and Micro are both around 200mA.
Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them!
Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
so if my pedal requires 9v 300mA and the supply is 9v 500mA that is fine? But if the power supply was 18v instead it would not work? Thanks for the video, it is super helpful!
Yes, extra amperage is okay, but you do NOT want extra voltage.
Sir, on the mxr mini, it says you can use a splitter to expand. Does this mean you can add an additional pedal to the power outputs?
Hi and thanks for your message, hope you're well and safe.
When splitting a power tap to multiple pedals, keep in mind that the two pedals on the split are no longer isolated and grounded from each other. This could lead to noise issues. The should also be of the same voltage and not have a higher current draw than the individual tap or to the power supply overall. I'm not a big fan of doing these splits in general however if it's one pedal, it's unlikely to cause issues if you pay attention to the previous points.
Please contact us direct with other questions as you have them!
Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
The RCA connectors, on the ciocks, are a deal-breaker for me.
Dose any of the companies makes a power supply that will power 10 9v single stomp style pedals?
The mxr does .
Im currently using the Roland PSU-1B adapter connected using a daisy chain. Seems to work fine and I dont reckon hearing any noise from the supply. But im curious, is there any issue with using daisy chains or adapters? Any advantages or disadvantages?
Daisy chaining isn't ideal, it's not isolated. Some pedals might do OK with it - typically analog distortion, overdrive, boost, devices are OK sharing power and don't require isolation. Some pedals that have internal clocking like a Phaser, Chorus, Flanger, etc. can sometimes have an issue and the clock speed will pulse through the signal even when the device is off and you can change the rate just by moving the speed knob on the pedal - even when it's off. More commonly, if you're using a combination of digital and analog pedals with varying current needs that push your supply to the limit, it can become problematic. The best litmus test is to try the pedals on battery, battery is the most isolated power you can get and will be the most quiet. You can compare the noise floor of the battery versus the supply and see where you are. Most pedals have internal battery compartments and if you plug in the DC supply input it'll bypass the battery so you can easily A/B without any extra gear needed.
Anyone know when the Voodoo lab pedal power plus 3 is coming out?
It's out now
@@laa0fa502 are you sure? There’s no videos of it on youtube of people with it and Sweetwater has it as preorder
Great Review! Thanks :)
I have some issues with EHX pedals that only seem to work best with their single wallwart adapter 9.6VDC @ 200mA. Which power supply is EHX friendly?
you'll prolly need one that has 200ma per output
How do you turn off the power supply? It's not in the manual, its not on Google, its not on any RUclips videos.
😊
Unplug it lol. There is no switch… I’m not being a smartass, just being honest with you.
Sorry to bother you guys but I've been looking for something for my pedal board im trying to build. I'm rocking my line 6 pod go and just thinking about running a wah and a over drive pedal into it. Any suggestions?
Hi, Korey! Thanks for your message, hope you're well and safe. We're here to help, so no bother at all.
To best help you decide, we really need to have a discussion. There are so many options, and without knowing your taste or style or budget there's no way to know if the suggestion is right for you. Please contact us direct when you can!
Robert Williams, Senior Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 2371, robert_williams@sweetwater.com
Yay! Mason on Sweetwater. This is cool.
🥰🥰🥰🥰
The iso brick has different ma’s…. I wish each plug in was 500ma
Can you run a power supply with another power supply?
trex fame?
Which one goes to eleven? They ALL do when Mason's in the house:)
(Noob) PedalBoard Question: Does every pedalbaord require a power supply?😅
Hi, Sith Enthusiast. So technically the pedalboard doesn’t require a power supply but all pedals are going to require some sort of power. That could be from a 9V battery, individual wall adapters, or one with multiple isolated outputs. Since most people using a pedalboard have multiple pedals that need to be powered, the best option is typically a power supply with multiple isolated outs. This provides the simplest solution that will be allow for fast set up times and also have the lowest noise.
Thanks for your interest!
Charlie Davis, Sweetwater Sales Engineer, (800) 222-4700 ext. 1320, charlie_davis@sweetwater.com
It's called a 9 volt battery.
uhhh. I have no idea which one I need
I made the mistake of getting a mondo but ended up needing a trutone cs12. Sold the mondo got a cs12 lesson learned
Why was the mondo a mistake?
@@davidboyle5763 because I use Digital pedals. The stomp couldn’t be powered by the mondo
@@aaronsanchez93 cheers! I'm learning
@@davidboyle5763 totally understandable!