Want to share my pedalboard idea with you guys!

[Kiteboarder]

If you guys recall from thread...Downsizing while upgrading... viewtopic.php?f=26&t=40184 I'm working hard on my pedalboard.

Well, after much deliberation I've finally come up with the best solution, and I want to share it with you guys.

I recently got a Rebel 1x12 cab from one of the guys here. So, I have small amp (Rebel) and cab (112x) for smaller gigs and practices. For the louder bigger stuff, I'll run my Mesa Lonestar (openback 2x12) and Rebel (into and Tourmaster 212x cab) in stereo.

Now, the main problem I was finding was that my 30" pedalboard is too big for the smaller gigs. Plus, on it I have the amp switcher, and channel switcher for the Lonestar. Stuff, I don't need when only running the Rebel.

Instead of wasting a whole lot of money building a whole other small pedalboard, I came up with the idea of dividing my current board into 2 separate boards. On one, I'll have the essential effects and the other, the stuff I would only need when running the big rig along with some of the effects I don't use all the time.

I'm going to use 2 PEDALTRAIN JRs. http://pedaltrain.com/ptjr.aspx

If you look at the photo attached, I cut a few pieces of paper and taped them together to recreate the size of the PT-Jr (17 x 12.5). Then I arranged the pedals in the order I want them. Cool thing is, it's just a matter of adding 1 patch cable in between them to plug them together. My main worry was that I needed Reverb and Delay on the main board, so I thought the order of the pedals might be a problems because these usually sit at the end of the chain. But no, since I'm running these in the Rebel effects loop, it can have them anywhere I want.

So basically the order will be:Main Board: Rat>Keeley Comp>Vox Wah>Tuner (will be True bypass soon)>TS808 (mod for TB coming soon) The 2 Hardwires will just be in the amp's loop.

Then... Board 2: EVH Phase 90>Ibanez Flanger (in a TB loop)>Ibanez Chorus>Carbon Copy>Lehle Amp Switcher. The AD9 in the photos is coming out, it's just holding the place for the TB looper.

I'm pretty stoked with the idea. I get to have a small board that's easy to carry around, and a small amp. Then when I need the extra power and extra effects and switching, all I have to do in plug in the 2nd board!

What do you guys think!?? Some things will be tweaked here and there, but overall it's the main idea. I'll post photos of the final rig when ready. It'll be a while because I'm also converting my Lonestar Combo into a separate head and cab setup and modding the 2nd channel.

 

[RockStarNick]

I like this idea for a multitude of reaons:

1. Pedaltrains are awesome.

2. The board on the right is just the essentials, and can get you through any gig.

3. The board on the left is all the extra ear candy that is nice but not totally necessary.

4. You can fit a mic stand perfectly between the two boards.

One suggestion: I'd probably make the order of the first board TU2 > Keeley Comp > Vox Wah > TS808 > Rat > then the two hardwires. That way, you have your buffer first, and your wah before your distortions, and your overdrive before your Rat, to boost the gain for solos.

 

[Kiteboarder]

I like this idea for a multitude of reaons:

1. Pedaltrains are awesome.

2. The board on the right is just the essentials, and can get you through any gig.

3. The board on the left is all the extra ear candy that is nice but not totally necessary.

4. You can fit a mic stand perfectly between the two boards.

One suggestion: I'd probably make the order of the first board TU2 > Keeley Comp > Vox Wah > TS808 > Rat > then the two hardwires. That way, you have your buffer first, and your wah before your distortions, and your overdrive before your Rat, to boost the gain for solos.

Hi Nick, I was actually counting on a response from you.

The mic stand would not be necessary. I don't get anywhere close to a microphone unless it's to talk BS or to scream!

There are a few changes coming up. I've tested the order of those pedals quite a bit. The fact that I have the Rat before the wah and before the compressor has been well thought out. I use amp distortion often; with 2 overdrive pedals on my board I at least want to have one before the wah to give me that bright raspy wah sound, a la Morello. If, I already have 2 distortions (amp and or pedal) after the wah, I might as well have the alternative of having one before it. I do think about the possibility of swapping the places of the Rat and TS808. That'll come over time. I'm going to have Keeley mod that TS808. After that, it'll work even better as a clean boost if I need it.

Secondly, Keeley recommends putting his compressor in between 2 overdrives, instead of first in the chain. I tried it both ways, and I like the idea. So that's another reason why it's after the Rat.

Finally, I see why the TU-2 should be first in the chain. But, I'm probably replacing it with a TB strobe tuner, like the Turbo Tuner by Sonic Research. In which case, I might need to think about a buffer to put in there somewhere. Still, I like my Rat to see my pickups directly. This is mainly because I like it like that more than because it needs to be like that. Plus, arranging the pedals like that, didn't allow me to put the TU-2 on the right side of the wah, mainly because of space. But, I'm sure I'll be able to mess with the arrangement more later.

One thing that bothers me is that I'll need another to Voodoo Lab Pedal power. And... I'm only going to be using like 5 out of the 8 plugs on each of them, so it's kind of a waste.

 

[Fallout Labs]

One thing that bothers me is that I'll need another to Voodoo Lab Pedal power. And... I'm only going to be using like 5 out of the 8 plugs on each of them, so it's kind of a waste.

well.. depending on the current draw across the 5 pedals, you might be able to use one of the high-current outputs to feed a little breakout box on the other board that splits the power out there.. that way, its only one cable for power.. you could incorporate all the audio hookups into a patchbox as well to make it super clean.

like this (but only does audio and midi

 

[RockStarNick]

That is a good idea Casey. I'm a big fan of patchbays and boxes likethat.

The only problem is, he's running two hardwire pedals. Which will probably use up both of thei high-current outputs on the PP2+.

Could he possibly use the courtesy outlet, and run a One Spot for the other board?

 

[Fallout Labs]

That is a good idea Casey. I'm a big fan of patchbays and boxes likethat.

The only problem is, he's running two hardwire pedals. Which will probably use up both of thei high-current outputs on the PP2+.

Could he possibly use the courtesy outlet, and run a One Spot for the other board?

i don't know anything about the hardwire pedals.. not sure how much they draw.. without measuring the draw who knows.. some pedals claim 80mA, and only draw 5-10..

 

[Kiteboarder]

One thing that bothers me is that I'll need another to Voodoo Lab Pedal power. And... I'm only going to be using like 5 out of the 8 plugs on each of them, so it's kind of a waste.

well.. depending on the current draw across the 5 pedals, you might be able to use one of the high-current outputs to feed a little breakout box on the other board that splits the power out there.. that way, its only one cable for power.. you could incorporate all the audio hookups into a patchbox as well to make it super clean.

like this (but only does audio and midi

Thanks for the idea Casey. From what I can tell, it sounds like a great idea. I'll have to check the current draw of the Hardwires like Nick suggested.

But, right now I'm surprised I even understood the idea! I just got back from a snowboarding trip! Lots of fresh powder from a recent snowstorm! I rode all day and I'm sooooo tired I can barely think!

I'm putting this on hold 'till tomorrow. You'll hear back from me soon! -Danny

 

[Kiteboarder]

Hi Casey, when I looked at this yesterday, I kind of picked up that the patch box was for the electrical connections. Now I see it's for audio. That's a great idea, but I actually removed a patch bay I had in my board already. I realized I don't need it for my setup. I'm simply going to link my pedals inline and go True-bypass whenever possible. And there will be one patch cable linking the two board together from the last pedal on the first board to the first on the second board. The Hardwires on the first board are the only ones that don't follow the line as they are separately wired through the effects loop of the amp. But thanks for that idea. It looks rad on your board there.

Now, back to the power issue. So, what you are saying it to use one of the higher power plugs on the Pedal Power and then daisy-chain the second board? If so, I might give it a try. I'm pretty sure the Hardwires can be plugged into any of the power outputs, they draw only 65Ma. So I could leave the high output plugs for the second board. Thing is, I don't like daisy-chains. My pedalboard has always been perfectly quiet with each pedal plugged into it's own isolated power plug.

The One-Spot might also be an idea. But again, I'd have to daisy chain. Plus, I'm not sure if the One-Spot can be plugged into the courtesy plug in the Pedal Power and still fit under the Pedaltrain board. Nick... You might be able to answer this.

Thanks, -Danny

 

[Fallout Labs]

Hi Casey, when I looked at this yesterday, I kind of picked up that the patch box was for the electrical connections. Now I see it's for audio. That's a great idea, but I actually removed a patch bay I had in my board already. I realized I don't need it for my setup. I'm simply going to link my pedals inline and go True-bypass whenever possible. And there will be one patch cable linking the two board together from the last pedal on the first board to the first on the second board. The Hardwires on the first board are the only ones that don't follow the line as they are separately wired through the effects loop of the amp. But thanks for that idea. It looks rad on your board there.

Now, back to the power issue. So, what you are saying it to use one of the higher power plugs on the Pedal Power and then daisy-chain the second board? If so, I might give it a try. I'm pretty sure the Hardwires can be plugged into any of the power outputs, they draw only 65Ma. So I could leave the high output plugs for the second board. Thing is, I don't like daisy-chains. My pedalboard has always been perfectly quiet with each pedal plugged into it's own isolated power plug.

The One-Spot might also be an idea. But again, I'd have to daisy chain. Plus, I'm not sure if the One-Spot can be plugged into the courtesy plug in the Pedal Power and still fit under the Pedaltrain board. Nick... You might be able to answer this.

Thanks, -Danny

i've daisy chained 4-5 outputs before without problems.. if it ground loops, you can just cut the ground between the power jacks.

 

[Kiteboarder]

Thanks for the tips. I need to buy the 2 boards first, but I'll hold off on the other Pedal Power and see if I can save some money by doing a little daisy-chaining. It'll be a few weeks, but I'll post results soon.

-D

 

[RockStarNick]

Hey Danny,

If you're using a Pedaltrain Jr, with a PP2+ mounted underneath, the only thing that will plug into the "courtesy outlet" is a straight 2 or 3-prong cable. (because to reach the outlet, you have to go thru the hole that is drilled into the PP2 aluminum base. see pic)

That being said. You could run a nice heavy duty extension cord from the Pedaltrain with the PP2+, and then just velcro the One Spot underneath the other Pedaltrain.

 

[Kiteboarder]

Hey Danny,

If you're using a Pedaltrain Jr, with a PP2+ mounted underneath, the only thing that will plug into the "courtesy outlet" is a straight 2 or 3-prong cable. (because to reach the outlet, you have to go thru the hole that is drilled into the PP2 aluminum base. see pic)

That being said. You could run a nice heavy duty extension cord from the Pedaltrain with the PP2+, and then just velcro the One Spot underneath the other Pedaltrain.

And that Nick, is a very good idea! But units would be sharing the same ground, and thus, all the pedals will be sharing the same ground. This, usually prevents ground loops! And... This can save me at least $100!

 

[RockStarNick]

And a good, black 3 prong extension cord shouldn't cost you more than $4 at target.

 

[eggfan21]

ive been using the one spot and its been great. I bought a godlyke power pump to swicth my nova delay to 12V. I currently have both nova mod and delay on my board along with several other pedals and the one spot has been spot on. The tc pedals have a pretty high draw as well, i think theyre 400ma to power up but run at 300ma but i could b wrong. If memory serves me right the one spot gives u up to 1700mA. Should b more then enough to get ur stuff up and running. Keep us posted on the progress i love chking out pdlbrds in progress always up for new ideas with mine =D

danny

 

[Kiteboarder]

Hi Eggfan 21. You a Danny too?

I'll make sure to keep you guys posted. I'm gassing up a bit to get the rest of the stuff I need. But, thanks to the suggestions of the guys here, I'll be able to save a few bucks in the process. -D

 

[eggfan21]

he,he yup. Been danny for the 30yrs ive been alive lol. Awesome name isnt it =D

 

[Kiteboarder]

he,he yup. Been danny for the 30yrs ive been alive lol. Awesome name isnt it =D

I turn 30 on Monday... It hurts already!!!

 

[Kiteboarder]

So hey guys, I'm bring this thread back up... I'm back to working on this as I've gassed up and I'm ready to buy the parts I need.

So, I did my homework and... Hell no! I'm not using a 1-spot, Power-all or any other switching-type adapter in my rig. I'd much rather spend a little more and do it right. Sorry, if any of you guys like them, but they don't convince me.

Anyway... I'm doing one of 3 things...
1. Feeding the left board with the 2 high outputs on my PP2. I'll bring a cable or two over and daisy-chain the left side. (I could also use a distribution box like the Maxon PD-01 instead of the daisy-chain). This would be the cheap way. I can do this, as the numbers add up correctly current-wise. Still, I run the risk of some hum thanks to the daisy-chain) and it's more complicated to have to plug power and signal when connecting the 2 boards (Instead of just signal).

2. Using a separate PP2 on the second board. A bit more pricey, but by far the most reliable setup. I won't have to deal with hum, and if one of the PP2's breaks, I've got a spare!

3. Using a VHT Valvulator 1 as a buffer and power. I'm not sure how many of you guys are familiar with this one, but it's a tube buffer that also has 4 isolated 9v outputs with 85Ma each. I could use this on either board 1, or board 2 (depending on where I find it to sound best) and then the PP2 on the opposite board. I would still have to daisy-chain a few pedals from it since I have at least 6 pedals on each board. But... it might be worth it. I'm not keeping the Boss TU-2 as a buffer, so this baby could be a great upgrade.

The VHT Valvulator is $239 vs the PP2 which is $169. But it has the great buffer. If I were to buy the PP2 for $169 and say, an Axess BS-2 buffer for $150, it would be $319. Maybe paying $239 for the VHT is not a bad idea, even though I'll have to daisy-chain a few pedals. -D

 

[Fallout Labs]

Anyway... I'm doing one of 3 things...
1. Feeding the left board with the 2 high outputs on my PP2. I'll bring a cable or two over and daisy-chain the left side. (I could also use a distribution box like the Maxon PD-01 instead of the daisy-chain). This would be the cheap way. I can do this, as the numbers add up correctly current-wise. Still, I run the risk of some hum thanks to the daisy-chain) and it's more complicated to have to plug power and signal when connecting the 2 boards (Instead of just signal).

2. Using a separate PP2 on the second board. A bit more pricey, but by far the most reliable setup. I won't have to deal with hum, and if one of the PP2's breaks, I've got a spare!

3. Using a VHT Valvulator 1 as a buffer and power. I'm not sure how many of you guys are familiar with this one, but it's a tube buffer that also has 4 isolated 9v outputs with 85Ma each. I could use this on either board 1, or board 2 (depending on where I find it to sound best) and then the PP2 on the opposite board. I would still have to daisy-chain a few pedals from it since I have at least 6 pedals on each board. But... it might be worth it. I'm not keeping the Boss TU-2 as a buffer, so this baby could be a great upgrade.

The VHT Valvulator is $239 vs the PP2 which is $169. But it has the great buffer. If I were to buy the PP2 for $169 and say, an Axess BS-2 buffer for $150, it would be $319. Maybe paying $239 for the VHT is not a bad idea, even though I'll have to daisy-chain a few pedals. -D

1 - if it hums sharing put, just cut the ground.
2 - that is true.
3 - i heardthe buffer wasn't very good in the valvulator.. you have a tu-2.. why not get that first in the line, and use it as your buffer.. its actually decent..

 

[aeroic]

Anyway... I'm doing one of 3 things...
1. Feeding the left board with the 2 high outputs on my PP2. I'll bring a cable or two over and daisy-chain the left side. (I could also use a distribution box like the Maxon PD-01 instead of the daisy-chain). This would be the cheap way. I can do this, as the numbers add up correctly current-wise. Still, I run the risk of some hum thanks to the daisy-chain) and it's more complicated to have to plug power and signal when connecting the 2 boards (Instead of just signal).

2. Using a separate PP2 on the second board. A bit more pricey, but by far the most reliable setup. I won't have to deal with hum, and if one of the PP2's breaks, I've got a spare!

3. Using a VHT Valvulator 1 as a buffer and power. I'm not sure how many of you guys are familiar with this one, but it's a tube buffer that also has 4 isolated 9v outputs with 85Ma each. I could use this on either board 1, or board 2 (depending on where I find it to sound best) and then the PP2 on the opposite board. I would still have to daisy-chain a few pedals from it since I have at least 6 pedals on each board. But... it might be worth it. I'm not keeping the Boss TU-2 as a buffer, so this baby could be a great upgrade.

The VHT Valvulator is $239 vs the PP2 which is $169. But it has the great buffer. If I were to buy the PP2 for $169 and say, an Axess BS-2 buffer for $150, it would be $319. Maybe paying $239 for the VHT is not a bad idea, even though I'll have to daisy-chain a few pedals. -D

1 - if it hums sharing put, just cut the ground.
2 - that is true.
3 - i heardthe buffer wasn't very good in the valvulator.. you have a tu-2.. why not get that first in the line, and use it as your buffer.. its actually decent..

I've owned the Valvulator, and I will never own another again. I had proximity hum to the tube with things like Wah pedals, wirelesses, etc. I switched to the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 and a Axess Electronics BS2, and have had ZERO problems since. I would recommend NOT going with the Valvulator. When I did use them, I had a tube go out on a set, and man it's a BITCH changing those tubes.

Eric