Choosing a Pedal Power Supply: Balancing DC Isolation with AC Convenience
This specific 7-output DC power supply with 2 AC outlets represents a hybrid solution for guitarists needing both isolated pedal power and charging capability. Unlike basic daisy-chain supplies, this unit offers dedicated 9V outputs for noise reduction while adding AC convenience for amplifiers or digital devices. The combination addresses two distinct power needs in a pedalboard setup.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Verify your pedal count and voltage requirements—this supply's seven 9V outputs suit moderate pedalboards but won't power 18V or 12V pedals without adapters.
- The two AC outlets are ideal for powering small amplifiers or charging stations, but check their total wattage capacity against your intended devices.
- Consider physical placement: this unit's size and outlet configuration must fit under your pedalboard while allowing access to both DC and AC ports.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Quality power supplies feature isolated outputs to prevent ground loop hum between digital and analog pedals. Check for robust construction with secure input jacks and adequate ventilation, as power supplies generate heat during extended use. Reliable units include sufficient current (mA) per output to handle modern digital pedals' demands.
Guitar & Bass Accessories Market Context
Market Overview
The pedal power market has expanded beyond basic adapters to include feature-rich units with multiple output types and smart power management. Recent trends show increased demand for hybrid supplies that combine isolated DC with AC convenience, particularly for gigging musicians needing to power auxiliary equipment.
Common Issues
Budget power supplies often suffer from inadequate isolation, causing audible hum when powering multiple pedals. Many units fail to provide sufficient current for power-hungry digital pedals like Strymon or Eventide, leading to performance issues. Physical durability problems include flimsy DC connectors and overheating during extended sessions.
Quality Indicators
Superior supplies specify true isolated outputs rather than shared ground designs. Look for units with individual output current ratings (typically 100mA-500mA per output) that exceed your pedals' requirements. Quality construction includes metal housings, secure locking DC connectors, and proper safety certifications like UL or CE marks.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade B Interpretation
The Grade B authenticity rating with 15% estimated fake reviews indicates generally trustworthy feedback with some promotional inflation. This suggests the product performs well but may have some incentivized reviews boosting its 4.89 average rating above the adjusted 4.50 authentic score.
Trust Recommendation
Focus on reviews discussing specific technical aspects like noise reduction, output stability with particular pedal combinations, or long-term durability. Be slightly skeptical of reviews that only praise general features without mentioning actual usage scenarios with guitar equipment.
Tips for Reading Reviews
Prioritize reviews that mention specific pedal brands (Boss, Electro-Harmonix, etc.) and describe noise performance in different venues. Look for detailed accounts of how the AC outlets were used—these authentic experiences reveal real-world utility beyond basic functionality claims.
Expert Perspective
This power supply's combination of seven isolated 9V outputs and two AC outlets addresses practical needs for gigging musicians who require clean pedal power plus auxiliary charging. The strong 4.50 adjusted rating from authentic reviews suggests reliable performance, though the gap between displayed and adjusted ratings indicates some review manipulation. The hybrid design is particularly valuable for players using digital modeling pedals alongside traditional effects who need both clean power and device charging.
Purchase Considerations
Evaluate whether the seven DC outputs adequately cover your current and future pedal collection, considering that some digital pedals may require two outputs. Assess if the AC outlets' placement and accessibility work with your pedalboard configuration, as rear-mounted outlets can be inconvenient for frequently accessed devices.
Comparing Alternatives
Compare this unit's output count and AC capability against competing models from brands like Truetone, MXR, or Voodoo Lab to ensure optimal feature alignment with your specific rig requirements.
