6 Best Pedal Power Supply Units for Guitar

Best Pedal Power Supply Units for Guitar

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The best pedal power supply units can improve the efficiency of your entire effects signal chain, as well as the sound quality and performance of your pedals.

When a guitarist starts to amass a selection of effects pedals, they must consider the most efficient ways to power them. Using a single power supply is the best option for convenience and reliability.

Rather than replacing the batteries in your pedals after each gig or connecting them to separate power supplies and using lots of unnecessary cables, an all-in-one power supply allows you to plug into your amp and start playing.

With so many pedalboard power supplies available, it can be tricky to differentiate between the various types. This guide will present the best options for all requirements.

In a Rush Roundup

Image Recommended ProductsProduct Features Price
Best Compact Power Supply
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 PLUS 8-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply
  • Powers 8 pedals
  • Toroidal transformer
  • Protected from short circuits
Best for Large Pedalboards
Walrus Audio Phoenix 15-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply
  • Powers 15 pedals
  • Switchable voltage settings
  • Custom-wound toroidal transformer
Best High-Current Power Supply
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO 12-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply
  • Powers up to 12 pedals
  • Four high-current isolated outputs
  • Internal cooling fan
Best Value Power Supply
Truetone 1 SPOT PRO CS7 7-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply
  • Power up to 7 pedals
  • Switchable voltage
  • Fully isolated outputs
Most Versatile Power Supply
Strymon Zuma 9-output Guitar Pedal Power Supply
  • Powers 9 pedals
  • 3-way switchable voltage outputs
  • Dual isolation
Best Power Supply for Recording
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 4x4 8-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply
  • Powers 8 pedals
  • High current outputs
  • Internal thermometer and cooling fan

How We Tested

To ensure that we got an accurate picture of the quality of these power supplies, we began by testing the amount of noise they produced when connected to pedals with varying voltages.

We then monitored how easy it was to secure the power supplies on differently sized pedalboards before finally analyzing the build quality of the devices and how well they could withstand heavy usage.

Best Pedal Power Supply Reviews

Best Compact Power Supply

Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 PLUS 8-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply

The Pedal Power 2 Plus is one of the most popular pedal power supplies for guitarists and bassists. This compact device is easy to use and performs consistently.
Connectivity
4.7
Build Quality
4.5
Versatility
4.3
Reliability
4.6
Value
4.3

    Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 PLUS 8-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply Review

    Voodoo Lab is a highly respected name in the audio electronics industry, with the company’s signature Pedal Power range ranking amongst the best-selling power supplies for musicians. 

    The Pedal Power 2 Plus is designed to be universally compatible, suiting all kinds of effects pedals. It includes a total of eight isolated 9-volt DC outputs, with two suited to higher-powered devices. 

    This pedal supply comes with eight high-quality power cables, with two of them angled and six of them straight. This means you don’t need any additional cables or equipment to start using the power supply immediately. 

    Voodoo Lab has employed a specific toroidal transformer with a modified core designed to reduce the electrical field that can interfere with particular effects, notably those which modulate pitch. 

    The manufacturer has also added short-circuit protection to prevent cut-outs midway through using your guitar pedals.

    Features

    • Powers 8 pedals
    • Toroidal transformer
    • Protected from short circuits

    Pros

    • Compatible with all pedal types
    • Built like a tank
    • Comes with eight cables

    Cons

    • Only has eight outputs
    Best for Large Pedalboards

    Walrus Audio Phoenix 15-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply

    Walrus Audio’s Phoenix is a compact device that supplies clean power to guitar pedals at varying voltages. This power supply is highly durable and perfect for the touring guitarist.
    Connectivity
    4.9
    Build Quality
    4.4
    Versatility
    4.5
    Reliability
    4.6
    Value
    4.4

      Walrus Audio Phoenix 15-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply Review

      If you’re into guitar pedals, the chances are you’ve heard of Walrus Audio. This boutique brand focuses predominantly on stompboxes for guitar and bass, but they also produce some excellent power supplies. 

      The Walrus Audio Phoenix is designed to supply your pedals with the cleanest power possible, ensuring maximum sound quality and performance. It delivers this thanks to its fully isolated design. 

      Perfect for stacked pedalboards, the Phoenix can supply power to up to 15 pedals. If you’re planning on adding to your collection in the future, investing in this extensive device might be the best option. 

      The rugged chassis of this device is easy on the eye, with a striking blue and black design. It also comes with a 5ft power cord and various power cables to connect it to your pedals. 

      Features:

      • Powers 15 pedals
      • Switchable voltage settings
      • Custom-wound toroidal transformer

      Pros

      • Compatible with 9V, 12V, and 18V pedals
      • Comes with a variety of cables
      • Great for extensive pedal selections

      Cons

      • Switches are tiny
      Best High-Current Power Supply

      Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO 12-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply

      Voodoo Lab’s Pedal Power Mondo is an extensive power supply that is perfect for guitarists who use a wide range of effects pedals in their signal chain.
      Connectivity
      4.8
      Build Quality
      4.7
      Versatility
      4.6
      Reliability
      4.6
      Value
      4.7

        Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO 12-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply Review

        With twelve outputs, the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power MONDO 12-output caters to every type of effects pedal a guitarist can use. Each output is isolated for maximum clarity, and you get access to various voltages. 

        Some of the outputs can supply either 9V or 12V to different effects pedals, while others are solely for 9V 400mA devices. You can combine small stompboxes with more oversized, complex pedals without issues. 

        As you’d expect from a Voodoo Lab power supply, the Pedal Power Mondo is highly roadworthy. Encased in solid metal housing, it can withstand the wear and tear that practicing, recording, and performing guarantees.

        This device is made in the USA and combines high-end components to create a solid and reliable power supply for your signal chain. 

        It also comes with all the cables you need to connect your pedals to the supply and a detachable power lead.

        Features:

        • Powers up to 12 pedals
        • Four high-current isolated outputs
        • Internal cooling fan

        Pros

        • Great for guitarists who use a lot of pedals
        • Perfect for high voltage devices
        • Excellent isolation

        Cons

        • Very wide design
        Best Value Power Supply

        Truetone 1 SPOT PRO CS7 7-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply

        The CS7 by Truetone is a conveniently-sized power supply that offers various voltage settings for your effects pedals.
        Connectivity
        4.2
        Build Quality
        4.1
        Versatility
        4.0
        Reliability
        4.0
        Value
        4.0

          Truetone 1 SPOT PRO CS7 7-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply Review

          Truetone has designed the 1 Spot Pro CS7 to take up minimal space on your pedalboard without compromising on versatility or performance. This power supply offers seven outputs and adjustable voltage switches. 

          Two of the seven outputs installed on this device are exclusively for 9V pedals. Then, four outputs can be switched from 9V to 12V depending on the specifics of your pedals. 

          The final output is solely for 18V pedals, which are usually larger digital devices that require a lot more power than your average-sized guitar effect. 

          With the CS7, you get all the cables and connectors needed to start using it right out of the box. It also comes with mounting hardware, which may be compatible with your pedalboard, depending on its design. 

          All of the outputs included on the Truetone 1 Spot Pro CS7 are fully isolated, so you don’t need to be concerned about the possibility of unwanted noise appearing when powering your pedals.

          Features:

          • Power up to 7 pedals
          • Switchable voltage
          • Fully isolated outputs

          Pros

          • Comes with all required cables
          • Compact design and easy to fit on a pedalboard
          • Easily mountable

          Cons

          • Not ideal for large pedal selections
          Most Versatile Power Supply

          Strymon Zuma 9-output Guitar Pedal Power Supply

          The Zuma by Strymon is one of the best-isolated pedal power supply devices available to guitarists. It can power up to 9 pedals simultaneously and has adjustable voltage settings.
          Connectivity
          4.7
          Build Quality
          4.2
          Versatility
          4.1
          Reliability
          4.1
          Value
          4.0

            Strymon Zuma 9-output Guitar Pedal Power Supply Review

            Strymon is a fast-growing manufacturer of guitar pedals and related devices, and the Strymon Zuma 9 is its flagship power brick. 

            With nine outputs, seven of which offer the standard 500mA 9V output used for most effects pedals and two with a 3-way selector switch to alter the voltage, this device is highly versatile. 

            The switchable voltage allows you to increase to 12V or 18V, which is useful if you need to power multi-effects pedals or larger digital stompboxes. 

            To ensure that the power supply creates no noise issues, Strymon has used dual isolation. This reduces the chance of electronic buzzing or humming, marring your signal clarity. 

            The Zuma is also compatible with any power cable, making it an excellent choice for guitarists who aspire to or already play in different countries.

            Features:

            • Powers 9 pedals
            • 3-way switchable voltage outputs
            • Dual isolation

            Pros

            • Keeps electronic noise to a minimum
            • Compatible with 9V, 12V, and 18V pedals
            • East to mount on your pedalboard

            Cons

            • Voltage witches are very small
            Best Power Supply for Recording

            Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 4x4 8-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply

            The Pedal Power 4x4 is ideal for smaller pedalboards that need to be easily transportable. Offering eight power outputs, this compact power supply is deceptively versatile.
            Connectivity
            4.5
            Build Quality
            4.6
            Versatility
            4.5
            Reliability
            4.6
            Value
            4.4

              Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 4x4 8-output Isolated Guitar Pedal Power Supply Review

              With eight isolated outputs, the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 4×4 has been designed to combine high current and regular current devices. The four outputs on the left side of the device can be used for 400mA 9V or 12V guitar pedals. 

              Then, another four outputs are designed for standard-sized guitar pedals that require 100mA 9V power. Finally, the right side of the outputs offers two 9V 400mA outputs. 

              Voodoo Lab once again manages to keep this power supply noiseless. It won’t produce any unexpected sounds that can detract attention from the effects you use with your electric guitar. 

              Furthermore, the Pedal Power 4×4 has an internal cooling system that consists of a thermometer and a fan. This prevents overheating, which can occur when high current outputs are used for powerful effects pedals. 

              Along with this power supply, you also get a set of Voodoo Lab’s excellent cables in varying lengths and a mixture of angled and straight connectors.

              Features:

              • Powers 8 pedals
              • High current outputs
              • Internal thermometer and cooling fan

              Pros

              • Ideal for high-current devices like multi-FX pedals
              • Comes with high-quality cables
              • Incredibly durable

              Cons

              • May be overkill for low current pedals

              Best Pedal Board Power Supply Buyer's Guide

              Investing in a power supply is wise for any guitarist with multiple effects pedals in their signal chain. These devices can improve the sound quality and performance of your pedals and the convenience of your guitar rig.

              If a pedal has the wrong amount of power being supplied, or if an unsuitable power supply is being used, the performance is significantly compromised. An isolated pedal power supply is the perfect solution.

              Setting up your gear before performing, rehearsing, or recording should be as easy and quick as possible. That way, you have more time to focus on getting your tone and dynamics right and checking that your equipment is working correctly.

              A power supply will save you lots of time and effort because you can leave your pedals set up and ready to plug into the power source without connecting all the individual cables each time you use them.

              Let’s get into the critical aspects of pedal power supplies below.

              Things to Consider When Buying Power Supply for Pedalboards

              Number of Outputs

              Each power supply has a maximum number of outputs from which power can be transmitted to your pedals through cables. You must consider how many outputs you need to power your entire signal chain. 

              Voltages

              Depending on the size and nature of your effects pedals, some may require different voltages from the power supply than others. 9V is the most common, but other devices may need 12V or even 18V to operate efficiently.  

              Switches

              To save space and keep their devices compact, some power supply manufacturers install switchable power settings so that you can access varying voltages without needing more outputs. 

              Isolation

              A power supply must provide isolated outputs. Otherwise, you will probably encounter unwanted electronic noise when using your pedals.

              How To Choose The Best Guitar Pedal Power Supply

              When choosing a power supply, it’s essential to consider your current pedal collection and whether you’ll be expanding it in the near future.

              It’s better to have a power supply with too many outputs initially than to invest in another one when you add more effects pedals to your signal chain further down the line. 

              The physical dimensions of the power supply also need to be assessed because you need to maximize the space available on your pedalboard. Most power supplies can be mounted to a pedalboard in several ways.

              Velcro strips are often used to attach the power supply to a pedalboard on the top or underneath if the board has an angled design. 

              You should check that the power supply’s dimensions align with the amount of space you have to work with on your pedalboard. Otherwise, you may need to invest in a larger one to accommodate it.

              It’s not just as simple as placing the supply on your board, you’ll also need to factor in the space that the power cables take up and how they will need to reach the various pedals.

              Currents and Isolated Outputs

              Effects pedals require different voltages depending on their size and design. For example, a small stompbox that only houses one effect will likely require a lower voltage than a large digital multi-effects processor.

              The main voltages for effects pedals are:

              • 9V DC
              • 12V DC
              • 18V DC

              It’s worth checking your existing pedals and noting what voltage they require. Most of them are likely to be 9V pedals, mainly if they only produce one effect, such as delay or chorus.

              When designing power supply units, manufacturers may use one specific voltage or include several options to cater to multiple pedal types. 

              Some power supplies are designed specifically for high current pedals, while others include 9V outputs.

              It’s also common to find switches installed on the outputs, which can alter the voltage supplied to the pedals. You can toggle between two or three voltage settings by moving the small switch up or down.

              These switches are not usually included on every output; just a select number usually positioned furthest to the right or the power supply. 

              Each output on a power supply for guitar pedals must be isolated if you want to avoid electronic interference being present in your signal.

              Some devices even offer double isolation, which provides additional protection from humming and buzzing noises.

              Cooling Systems

              Power supplies can get very hot, mainly if they supply power to high-current pedals. If you’re using several high [power pedals, it may be a good idea to look for a power supply with an onboard cooling system.

              High-end power supplies have an inbuilt thermometer that detects when they reach a specific temperature.

              This then triggers a fan to start cooling down the internal components of the power supply to avoid overheating. A vent allows the hot air to be expelled so it cannot build up inside the metal enclosure.

              A cooling system is not necessary on all power supplies, only those that will be used with many pedals and for long periods.

              Pedalboard Power Supply FAQs

              Are Most Guitar Pedals 9V?

              The vast majority of guitar pedals use 9V power supplies. This is common for standard single-effect stompboxes, such as delay, reverb, overdrive, or chorus pedals.

              Pedals that require a higher voltage, such as 12V, 18V, or in rare cases, 24V, are usually much more extensive. They may have a digital processor that requires significantly more power than a smaller-sized stompbox pedal.

              What Does mA Stand For On a Power Supply? 

              In addition to the DC voltage of a power supply, the outputs are also rated in terms of milliamps, presented as mA. This indicates the power of the electrical current, and the output must match the pedal.

              For example, if you used a 500mA guitar pedal with a 100mA output on a power supply, this would cause the pedal to malfunction. It could even damage the pedal permanently due to the excess power.

              Does a Power Supply Affect Tone? 

              In theory, a power supply should not affect your guitar tone because it doesn’t change the frequency output of the instrument, pedals, or amplifier. However, adding electronic noise to the signal can negatively affect your guitar sound.

              Noise issues are caused by poor isolation of the power supply’s outputs or the wrong current strength sent to a pedal.

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