Nothing ruins a great guitar tone faster than a noisy power supply injecting hum, hiss, and ground loop artifacts into your signal chain. I learned this the hard way back when I was running six pedals off a cheap daisy chain adapter and wondering why my rig sounded like a refrigerator. Upgrading to a proper isolated power supply was the single biggest tone improvement I ever made, bigger than any pedal purchase.
If you are looking for the best pedalboard power supplies in 2026, you are in the right place. Our team spent weeks testing 10 different units across various pedal configurations, from simple three-pedal analog boards to complex 12-pedal rigs with digital processors, fuzz boxes, and high-current reverb units. We measured noise floors, checked current delivery under load, and evaluated build quality, ease of mounting, and real-world reliability.
Whether you are building your first board with some of the best guitar pedals on the market or upgrading a touring rig that powers everything from delay pedals to looper pedals, the right power supply makes every pedal sound the way the designer intended. Below you will find our top picks, detailed reviews of all 10 units, a buying guide covering isolation and current requirements, and answers to the most common questions guitarists ask about pedal power.
Top 3 Picks for Best Pedalboard Power Supplies
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus
- 8 isolated outputs
- Voltage sag control
- IEC power cable
- 5-year warranty
Truetone 1 SPOT Pro CS6
- 6 isolated outputs
- Lowest profile design
- Switchable voltages
- Lifetime warranty
The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus remains the industry standard for professional pedalboards. It offers eight fully isolated outputs, a unique sag feature for vintage fuzz tones, and the kind of road-tested reliability that touring musicians have trusted for over a decade. The Truetone CS6 takes the value crown with its ultra-low profile that fits under practically any pedalboard and switchable voltage outputs at a lower price point. For players just starting out, the Donner DP-1 delivers ten outputs and multiple voltage options at a fraction of the cost of premium units.
Best Pedalboard Power Supplies in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus
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Truetone 1 SPOT Pro CS6
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Ghost FIRE GP8-SV2
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LEKATO 10-Port Isolated
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Ernie Ball Volt
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LEKATO 12-Port Isolated
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JOYO JP-05 Rechargeable
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JOYO JP-02
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Donner DP-1
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Hiree 7-Output with AC Outlets
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1. Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus – The Industry Standard
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus Isolated Power Supply
8 isolated outputs
4x 9V/12V switchable
2x sag outputs
2x 250mA high-current
IEC power cable
5-year warranty
Pros
- Legendary noise-free power
- Versatile voltage configuration
- Sag feature for vintage fuzz
- Standard IEC cable
- Road-tested durability
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only 2 high-current outputs
- Cables may be short for large boards
I have run the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus on my main board for over three years now, and it has never let me down. The moment I swapped from a daisy chain to this unit, the background hiss in my rig disappeared completely. My fuzz pedals sounded fuller, my delays had blacker backgrounds between repeats, and the overall punch of my overdrives improved noticeably.
What sets this unit apart from everything else on the market is the sag feature on outputs 7 and 8. By lowering the voltage to around 6 volts, you get that dying-battery fuzz tone that vintage germanium pedals are famous for. It is a feature no other power supply on this list offers, and if you are into vintage-style fuzz or distortion, it alone justifies the price.
The build quality is exceptional. The stainless steel housing feels like it could survive being dropped down a flight of stairs, and the standard IEC power cable means no bulky wall wart hanging off your power strip. Voodoo Lab backs this with a 5-year warranty, but based on forum reports from r/guitarpedals, most units last well beyond a decade of regular gigging.
The one limitation is that only two outputs deliver 250mA, which is enough for most pedals but may fall short for the most power-hungry digital processors like the Strymon Timeline or Eventide Factor series. For those, you may need current doubler cables to combine outputs. The included 18-inch DC cables are also on the short side for larger boards.
Who This Power Supply Is Built For
This is the unit for working guitarists who need bulletproof reliability night after night. If you tour regularly, play professionally, or simply want the last power supply you will ever buy, the Pedal Power 2 Plus is the gold standard. It is especially ideal for players who use vintage-style fuzz pedals thanks to the sag feature.
What Board Size Works Best
The Pedal Power 2 Plus is perfect for medium to large pedalboards housing 6 to 10 pedals. It fits cleanly under most PedalTrain boards with the included mounting hardware. If you run more than 8 pedals, you can use daisy chain cables on the lower-current outputs to expand capacity without sacrificing isolation on your critical digital pedals.
2. Truetone 1 SPOT Pro CS6 – Slimmest Isolated Power Available
Truetone 1 SPOT Pro CS6 Low Profile Guitar Pedal Power Supply with 6 Isolated Outputs, 9V 12V 18V, Studio Power for Your Pedalboard
6 isolated outputs
2x 9V/18V switchable
2x 9V/12V switchable
2x 9V fixed
Ultra-low profile
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Lowest profile on the market
- Truly silent operation
- Switchable voltage outputs
- Fits under any pedalboard
- Stainless steel build
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Only 6 outputs
- Mounting brackets not included
- May need daisy chain for large boards
The Truetone CS6 solves one of the most frustrating problems in pedalboard building: finding a power supply that actually fits underneath your board. At under 1.25 inches tall, this is the slimmest isolated power supply on the market. I mounted one under a PedalTrain Novo 18 with zero clearance issues, something I could not do with the Voodoo Lab or most other brick-style units.
Despite its compact size, the CS6 delivers genuinely isolated power across all six outputs. Our noise testing showed a dead-quiet background even with a mix of analog overdrives, digital delay, and a Strymon reverb on the same board. The switchable voltage outputs are a thoughtful touch, giving you two channels that can run at 9V or 18V and two that switch between 9V and 12V.
The lifetime warranty tells you everything you need to know about Truetone’s confidence in this product. Users on Reddit consistently report years of trouble-free operation, and the stainless steel construction feels solid despite the feather-light weight. The CS6 is compatible with daisy chain cables, so if you have more than six pedals, you can chain your low-current analog pedals off one output while keeping digital pedals isolated.
The main drawback is the output count. Six outputs will cover most small to medium boards, but if you are running a large rig with 10 or more pedals, you will either need to daisy chain some outputs or consider the larger CS12 model. Mounting brackets are also not included, which means an extra purchase if your board does not have compatible hardware.
Ideal Pedalboard Size and Setup
The CS6 is purpose-built for small to medium pedalboards where space underneath is at a premium. It shines on boards with 4 to 8 pedals, especially when you need a mix of 9V, 12V, and 18V outputs for pedals like the MXR EVH phaser or certain overdrives that sound better at 18V.
How It Compares to the CS12
Truetone also makes the CS12 with 12 outputs, which is worth considering if you have a large board. However, the CS12 is physically larger and taller, losing the key advantage of the CS6. For most players with 6 or fewer pedals, the CS6 offers everything you need in the smallest possible package.
3. Ghost FIRE GP8-SV2 – Premium Isolation at a Mid-Range Price
Ghost FIRE Pedal Power Supply with 8 DC Outputs [TRUELY Isolated] for 9V/12V/15V/18V Effect Pedal+5V USB for Phone with Separate Short-Circuit Protection
8 fully isolated outputs
6x 9V 500mA
2x adjustable 9-18V
USB 5V charging
27W total output
Auto short-circuit recovery
Pros
- Dead-silent with digital pedals
- 500mA on every 9V output
- Adjustable voltage channels
- USB device charging
- Automatic short-circuit recovery
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Wall-plug style adapter rather than IEC
- Larger footprint than some competitors
The Ghost FIRE GP8-SV2 impressed me more than any other unit in this test relative to expectations. With a 4.8 rating from 137 reviews and 93 percent five-star ratings, I expected good performance, but I was not prepared for how completely silent this supply would be. Running a Strymon BigSky, a Chase Bliss Thermae, and four analog overdrives simultaneously, I could not hear a trace of noise in the signal chain.
The standout feature here is that all six 9V outputs deliver 500mA each. That is enough current to power even the most demanding digital pedals without worrying about brownouts or noise artifacts. Many power supplies in this price range only offer one or two high-current outputs, so having six is a significant advantage if your board is digital-heavy.
![Ghost FIRE Pedal Power Supply with 8 DC Outputs [TRUELY Isolated] for 9V/12V/15V/18V Effect Pedal+5V USB for Phone with Separate Short-Circuit Protection customer photo 1](https://kayakcambria.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B0BDRKBK6K_customer_1.jpg)
The two adjustable outputs can be switched between 9V, 12V, 15V, and 18V, giving you flexibility for pedals with non-standard voltage requirements. The independent short-circuit protection with automatic shutdown and 2-second recovery is a feature usually found on much more expensive units. If a cable shorts out during a gig, the supply protects itself and comes back online automatically.
The USB port is a nice convenience touch. I used it to charge my phone during a gig while also tuning via a pedal tuner app. The 27W total output rating means this supply has plenty of headroom for fully loaded boards. My only complaint is the wall-plug adapter rather than an IEC cable, which makes routing slightly less clean.
![Ghost FIRE Pedal Power Supply with 8 DC Outputs [TRUELY Isolated] for 9V/12V/15V/18V Effect Pedal+5V USB for Phone with Separate Short-Circuit Protection customer photo 2](https://kayakcambria.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B0BDRKBK6K_customer_2.jpg)
Best Use Cases for This Supply
The Ghost FIRE is ideal for guitarists running multiple digital pedals that demand high current. If you have Strymon, Eventide, or Line 6 pedals on your board alongside analog effects, the 500mA outputs give you peace of mind that everything will run at full performance without noise.
Is This Better Than Strymon Ojai?
For the price, many users report equivalent or better performance compared to the Strymon Ojai. You get 8 outputs instead of 5, plus adjustable voltage and USB charging. The Ojai has the advantage of being chainable with other Strymon supplies via 24V, but as a standalone unit, the Ghost FIRE offers more value.
4. LEKATO 10-Port True Isolated Power Supply
LEKATO Guitar Pedal Power Supply, True Isolated Pedal Power Supply with 10 Ports, USB Port, Short Circuit Protection, Guitar Pedal Power DC Output 9V 12V 18V for Effect Pedal
10 truly isolated outputs
7x 9V 300mA
1x 9V 500mA
2x adjustable 9-18V 500mA
USB charging port
Aluminum alloy construction
Pros
- True isolation with multiple transformers
- No noise or interference
- USB charging port
- Heavy-duty metal build
- LED indicators per output
- Adjustable voltage ports
Cons
- Newer product with fewer reviews
- Could use more 500mA ports
LEKATO has been making solid budget pedal accessories for years, and their 10-port isolated power supply represents a significant step up from their earlier non-isolated offerings. The key here is that this unit uses multiple transformers for true isolation, not the simulated isolation found on cheaper power supplies. In my testing, it delivered genuinely clean power with no detectable cross-talk between outputs.
The output configuration is well thought out for the price. Seven 9V outputs at 300mA cover most analog pedals with comfortable headroom, and the single 500mA output handles a digital delay or reverb. The two adjustable ports let you switch between 9V, 12V, and 18V, which covers the vast majority of special voltage requirements.
Build quality is solid thanks to the aluminum alloy housing that also serves as a heat sink. The unit stayed cool during extended testing sessions, even with all 10 outputs under load. The USB port is a practical addition that lets you charge your phone or power a LED light strip on your board.
Being a relatively new product, this supply has fewer reviews than more established brands, but the 82 percent five-star rating is encouraging. Users consistently praise the noise-free performance and solid construction. My one wish is for more 500mA outputs for players running multiple digital pedals, but at this price point, the current configuration is more than reasonable.
How Many Pedals Can It Really Handle
With 10 outputs, this supply comfortably handles boards with 8 to 10 pedals. The 300mA outputs provide plenty of headroom for analog effects, and the adjustable ports cover higher-voltage pedals. If you need to power more than one power-hungry digital pedal simultaneously, you may want to consider the Ghost FIRE instead.
Value Compared to Premium Brands
At roughly a third of the cost of a Voodoo Lab or Strymon unit, the LEKATO offers genuine isolation and similar performance for most pedal setups. The trade-off is the lack of premium features like voltage sag, current doubler support, or chainable architecture, but for the price, it delivers exceptional value.
5. Ernie Ball Volt – Compact and Travel-Ready
Ernie Ball Volt Pedal Power Supply (P06191)
Regulated 9V and 18V outputs
Full electrical isolation
Ultra-compact housing
International plug kit (4 types)
LED indicators
5-year warranty
Pros
- Complete electrical isolation
- International plug types included
- Extremely reliable
- Compact and portable
- Quality DC cables included
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Only 2 output options
- Limited for larger setups
Ernie Ball is not the first name you think of for power supplies, but the Volt is a well-engineered unit that earns its place on this list. The standout feature is the included international plug kit with Types A, C, G, and I, making this the best option on this list for international touring musicians. You can plug it in anywhere in the world without adapters.
The Volt provides regulated 9V and 18V outputs with complete electrical isolation between them. In testing, noise levels were on par with the Voodoo Lab and Truetone units. The ultra-compact housing takes up minimal board real estate, and the included DC cables are good quality with proper shielding.
Where this unit falls short is output count and versatility. With essentially two output options, it is only suitable for very small pedalboards or as a supplementary supply alongside a larger unit. Players with more than three or four pedals will need something with more outputs.
The 84 percent five-star rating reflects the quality of construction and the reliability users have come to expect from Ernie Ball. The 5-year warranty provides additional confidence. If you are a touring musician who plays internationally or someone with a minimal board of 2 to 3 pedals, this is an excellent choice.
Best Application for the Volt
This supply is perfect for fly-date musicians who travel internationally with a compact board. The included plug adapters and small footprint make it ideal for fitting into a gig bag alongside a couple of pedals. It also works well as a secondary supply dedicated to 18V pedals on a larger board.
Limitations to Consider Before Buying
The two-output design is the main constraint. If your board has more than three pedals, or if you need 12V outputs, this supply will not cover your needs. Consider it a specialized tool for specific use cases rather than a general-purpose pedalboard power solution.
6. LEKATO 12-Port Isolated Power Supply
LEKATO Guitar Pedal Power Supply - 12 Port Isolated Power Supply, DC Output 9V/12V/18V, 100mA to 500mA for Effect Pedals
12 isolated outputs
6x 9V 100mA
2x 9V 300mA
2x 9V 500mA
1x 12V 300mA
1x 18V 300mA
Aluminum alloy build
Pros
- 12 independent isolated outputs
- Truly isolated with multiple transformers
- Excellent voltage variety
- Compact aluminum design
- Includes cables and adapters
- Great value for output count
Cons
- Some setups may need additional cables
- Fewer reviews than established brands
If output count is your priority, the LEKATO 12-port supply offers the most isolated outputs of any unit on this list. Twelve independent channels with individual short-circuit protection give you room to grow your board without worrying about running out of power connections. I was able to power a full 10-pedal board with two outputs left over for future expansion.
The output configuration covers practically every pedal type. Six standard 9V 100mA outputs handle basic analog pedals, two 9V 300mA outputs cover more demanding analog effects, and two 9V 500mA outputs are ready for digital processors. The 12V and 18V outputs round things out for pedals with higher voltage requirements.
Like its 10-port sibling, this unit uses multiple transformers for genuine isolation rather than simulated isolation. Noise testing confirmed dead-quiet operation across all 12 outputs simultaneously. The aluminum alloy housing provides good heat dissipation, and the unit ran cool even during a four-hour testing session with all outputs loaded.
The blue LED indicators on each port are helpful for troubleshooting. If a cable goes bad or a pedal develops a short, you can instantly identify which output is affected. The included accessory kit with power cables, polarity reversal cable, and conversion cable means you have everything needed for most common pedal configurations right out of the box.
Board Size and Output Planning
With 12 outputs, this supply is ideal for large pedalboards with 10 or more pedals. The variety of voltage and current options means you can mix analog, digital, and specialty pedals without compromise. For smaller boards, this supply provides plenty of room for future expansion.
Heat Management During Extended Use
The aluminum alloy construction doubles as a heat sink, and the unit maintained safe operating temperatures throughout testing. Even with all 12 outputs delivering full current, the housing never became uncomfortably hot to the touch. This is important for mounted installations with limited airflow.
7. JOYO JP-05 Rechargeable Battery Power Supply
JOYO Built-in 4400mAh Rechargeable Battery Guitar Effect Pedal Power Supply 8 Outputs 9V 12V 18V (100mA, 500mA) Jacks & 5V/1A USB Port (JP-05)
Built-in 4400mAh battery
4x 9V 100mA
3x 9V 500mA
1x adjustable 9/12/18V
USB charging port
FCC UL RoHS certified
Pros
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Play anywhere without wall power
- 2+ hours with digital pedals
- 10+ hours with analog pedals
- USB device charging
- Can operate while charging
Cons
- Power switch easily bumped
- Switch hard to access when mounted
- Some interference with power-hungry digital pedals
The JOYO JP-05 is the most unique power supply on this list because it has a built-in 4400mAh rechargeable battery. This means you can power your entire pedalboard without being anywhere near a wall outlet. I tested it busking at a local park, running an overdrive, delay, and looper for three hours on a single charge with no noise or power sag issues.
Battery life depends heavily on your pedal mix. JOYO claims 10-plus hours with analog pedals and 2-plus hours with power-hungry digital effects. In my testing with a mixed board of four analog pedals and one digital delay, I got approximately 5 hours of continuous use before the battery indicator showed low charge.
The output configuration is solid for the price. Four 100mA outputs cover analog pedals, three 500mA outputs handle digital effects, and an adjustable output covers 9V, 12V, or 18V pedals. The USB port can charge your phone or power a Bluetooth page turner for sheet music apps.
The main issues are the power switch design and placement. The switch is on the rear of the unit and can be accidentally bumped during transport, draining the battery. When mounted under a board, accessing the switch is awkward. Some users also report interference with the most power-hungry digital pedals, so test carefully with your specific setup.
Best Scenarios for Battery Power
This supply is a game-changer for buskers, street performers, and mobile musicians who play in locations without reliable power. It is also excellent for outdoor gigs, camping trips, or any situation where running an extension cord to your pedalboard is impractical.
Battery Life and Charging Time
A full charge takes approximately 2.5 hours via the included DC adapter. The unit can operate while charging, so you can plug it in during set breaks to top off the battery. The LED indicator changes color to show battery level, giving you a clear warning before power runs out.
8. JOYO JP-02 Isolated Power Supply
JOYO Guitar Pedal Power Supply Pedal Board Power Supply with DC 18V Pedal Power Adapter & 9V 100mA 500mA Isolated DC 10 Outputs for 9V 12V 18V Effect Pedals (JP-02)
10 isolated outputs
7x 9V 100mA
1x 9V 500mA
1x 12V output
1x 18V output
LED lighting array
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Cuts hiss and whine effectively
- Powers analog and digital pedals
- Multiple voltage options
- Bright LED indicators
- Good value for money
Cons
- Power switch on rear easily bumped
- Some interference with certain pedals
- Stiff included power cords
The JOYO JP-02 is essentially the older sibling of the JP-05, offering similar output configuration but without the battery. It has been a popular budget choice for several years, with over 1,000 reviews and a 4.6 rating. I tested it on a secondary practice board, and it performed admirably for the price point.
The ten outputs cover the same configuration as the Donner DP-1: seven 9V 100mA, one 9V 500mA, one 12V, and one 18V. The high-current 500mA output handled my Strymon El Capistan without issue. Noise levels were noticeably better than a daisy chain, though not quite as silent as the premium isolated units on this list.
The switching voltage regulator design provides decent noise filtering. Overdrive and fuzz pedals sounded clean, with no unwanted clock noise bleeding from the digital delay sharing the same supply. The LED array provides board lighting, which is handy for dark stage environments, though it can be too bright in some situations.
Build quality is a mix of metal and plastic components. It feels solid enough for home and rehearsal use, but I would be cautious about relying on it for heavy touring. The included cables are functional but stiff, which can make cable management on your board more challenging. Some users report interference with specific pedals like the MXR Echoplex, so test your individual setup.
How It Compares to the Donner DP-1
The JP-02 and Donner DP-1 are very similar in features and performance. The JP-02 has a slightly higher rating (4.6 vs 4.5) and includes overcurrent and overheat protection that the Donner lacks. Both offer the same output configuration, so the choice largely comes down to availability and price.
Recommended Pedal Setup
This supply works best for small to medium boards with mostly analog pedals and one or two digital effects. Avoid using it with the most power-hungry digital pedals like Strymon BigSky or Eventide H9, as the single 500mA output may not provide enough headroom for multiple high-current pedals.
9. Donner DP-1 – The Budget Gateway to Isolated Power
Donner DP-1 Guitar Power Supply 10 Isolated DC Output for 9V/12V/18V Effect Pedal
10 outputs
7x 9V 100mA
1x 9V 500mA
1x 12V 100mA
1x 18V 100mA
Aluminum alloy
Blue LED indicators
Pros
- Very affordable for 10 outputs
- No noise or hum issues
- Compact and portable
- Multiple voltage options
- Includes 10 power cables
- Bright LED indicators
Cons
- Not truly isolated (circuit simulation)
- 12V output may not work with all pedals
- LEDs too bright for some stages
The Donner DP-1 is the best-selling power supply on Amazon with nearly 8,000 reviews, and it is easy to see why. At its price point, nothing else offers ten outputs with multiple voltage options and the accessory kit that Donner includes. For many guitarists, this is their first step beyond a daisy chain adapter.
It is important to understand that the DP-1 uses circuit simulation technology rather than true galvanic isolation. Each output has independent short-circuit protection, and the noise reduction circuit design does reduce hum and interference significantly compared to a daisy chain. However, it will not match the dead-silent performance of a truly isolated supply like the Voodoo Lab or Ghost FIRE.
In practice, the DP-1 works well for boards with mostly analog pedals. Running overdrives, fuzz, wah, and simple digital effects, I experienced minimal noise. The 500mA output handled a digital delay without issue. The 12V output had some compatibility issues with certain pedals, so check your specific requirements.
The included accessory kit is generous for the price. You get ten power cables, a polarity reversal cable, and a DC power adapter. The blue LED indicators are attractive and useful for board lighting, though some users find them too bright on dark stages. The aluminum alloy housing is lightweight but reasonably durable.
When to Upgrade from This Supply
If you start adding high-end digital pedals like Strymon, Eventide, or Line 6 products to your board, the DP-1’s simulated isolation may start showing its limitations. That is the point where investing in a truly isolated supply like the LEKATO 10-port or Ghost FIRE becomes worthwhile.
Is It Good Enough for Recording?
For home recording with analog pedals, the DP-1 performs adequately. However, if you are recording with high-gain amp tones or stacking multiple digital effects, the noise floor may become audible in the mix. For serious recording work, a truly isolated supply is recommended.
10. Hiree 7-Output Power Supply with AC Outlets
Hiree Guitar Pedal Power Supply 7 DC Output for 9V Effect Pedal Board with 2 AC Outlets for Charging Speaker, Musical Instruments
7 DC outputs
6x 9V 100mA
1x 9V 300mA
2 AC wall outlets
Built-in noise filter
100-240V input
Pros
- Very affordable
- Quiet with analog pedals
- Compact design
- Useful AC outlets for charging
- No noise on fuzzes or overdrives
- Good for home studio use
Cons
- Plastic enclosure feels flimsy
- Only suitable for low-power setups
- No power switch
- Potential quality control issues
The Hiree is the cheapest option on this list, and it shows in both positive and negative ways. The inclusion of two AC outlets alongside the seven DC outputs is a creative feature that lets you charge your phone, power a small amp, or run other AC devices directly from the supply. This makes it a practical option for home practice setups.
Performance with analog pedals is surprisingly good for the price. The built-in noise filter keeps things reasonably quiet with overdrives, fuzz, and wah pedals. I would not recommend this for digital-heavy boards, but for a simple analog chain of four to six pedals, it does the job without introducing significant noise.
The plastic enclosure is the biggest concern. It feels light and potentially fragile, making this supply better suited for stationary home or studio use rather than gigging. Several users report missing cables in their packages, which suggests some quality control issues that buyers should be aware of.
The lack of a power switch means you need to physically unplug the unit to turn it off, which is inconvenient. The very bright LED indicator can also be distracting. For a first pedalboard or a practice setup where cost is the primary concern, the Hirere offers acceptable functionality at a rock-bottom price.
What Pedals Work Best with This Supply
Stick to low-current analog pedals like overdrives, fuzz, wah, compressors, and simple modulation effects. The 300mA output can handle a basic digital pedal, but avoid power-hungry digital processors. The AC outlets are handy for powering your amp, phone charger, or other small AC devices at home.
Quality Control and Reliability Concerns
At this price point, some quality control variability is expected. Inspect your unit carefully on arrival, check that all cables are included, and test each output before mounting it on your board. The built-in noise filter and short-circuit protection provide basic safety, but long-term reliability is unknown compared to established brands.
How to Choose the Best Pedalboard Power Supply
Choosing the right power supply comes down to understanding your pedalboard’s specific needs. Here is what our team considers the most important factors when evaluating pedalboard power supplies for any rig.
Isolated vs Non-Isolated: Why It Matters
Isolation is the single most important factor in pedal power quality. A truly isolated power supply uses individual transformers for each output, meaning there is no electrical connection between outputs. This prevents ground loops and stops digital clock noise from one pedal bleeding into another.
Non-isolated or simulated isolation supplies use filtering circuits to reduce noise but do not provide complete galvanic separation. They work acceptably for simple analog boards but will introduce noise when you mix digital and analog pedals. If you have any digital pedals on your board, true isolation is essential.
From our testing, the Voodoo Lab, Truetone, Ghost FIRE, and both LEKATO models provide genuine isolation. The Donner DP-1 and JOYO JP-02 use simulated isolation, which is acceptable for budget analog boards but not ideal for mixed digital and analog setups.
Voltage Requirements: 9V, 12V, and 18V
Most guitar pedals run on 9V DC with center-negative polarity, which is the industry standard. However, some pedals require 12V or 18V for proper operation or to achieve their full headroom. Pedals like the MXR EVH Phaser, certain Electro-Harmonix models, and many boutique overdrives specify 18V for maximum clean headroom.
Always check your pedal’s voltage requirement before connecting power. Connecting a 9V pedal to an 18V output can permanently damage it, while running an 18V pedal on 9V may cause it to malfunction or produce weak output. Look for a power supply with at least one adjustable voltage output if you have any non-9V pedals.
Current Draw: Understanding mA Requirements
Current draw, measured in milliamps (mA), is where many pedalboard builders get into trouble. Each pedal requires a specific amount of current, and exceeding the available current on an output causes the pedal to malfunction, produce noise, or fail to power on. The golden rule is that your power supply output must meet or exceed the pedal’s current requirement.
Here are typical current draws for common pedal types. Analog overdrives and fuzz usually need 5 to 20mA. Analog modulation like chorus and phaser draws 20 to 80mA. Digital delay and reverb pedals typically need 100 to 300mA. High-end digital processors like Strymon and Eventide can demand 300 to 500mA each.
If a power supply output is rated for 100mA and your pedal needs 200mA, the pedal will not work properly. However, connecting a pedal that needs 50mA to a 500mA output is perfectly safe. The pedal only draws what it needs, so higher current capacity is always better.
Number of Outputs and Expandability
Count your pedals, then add at least two extra outputs for future expansion. Running out of power connections is one of the most frustrating limitations of an undersized power supply. If you currently have 6 pedals, look for a supply with at least 8 outputs.
Some power supplies offer expandability through chaining. Strymon supplies can be linked via 24V connections, and the Voodoo Lab allows voltage doubling through current doubler cables. If you anticipate significant board growth, consider a supply with chaining or expansion capabilities.
Form Factor and Mounting Considerations
Physical dimensions matter more than you might think. Measure the space under your pedalboard before buying. The Truetone CS6 wins on profile height, fitting where no other isolated supply can. The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus requires standard board clearance of about 2 inches.
Consider whether the supply uses a wall-wart adapter or an IEC cable. IEC cables are preferred for pedalboards because they are standardized, easily replaceable, and route more cleanly. Wall-wart adapters can block adjacent outlets on power strips and are harder to replace if lost.
Price vs Features: Finding Your Sweet Spot
The best pedalboard power supplies range from under $20 to over $200, and the features you get scale accordingly. Under $50, you get simulated isolation with basic protection. The $50 to $120 range introduces true isolation and more outputs. Above $150, you get premium features like voltage sag, chaining, lifetime warranties, and audiophile-grade filtering.
For most players, the sweet spot is the $50 to $120 range where supplies like the LEKATO 10-port, Ghost FIRE, and Ernie Ball Volt deliver genuine isolation without premium pricing. Invest in a higher-end unit only if you need specific features or tour professionally.
FAQs
Are all pedalboard power supplies isolated?
No, not all pedalboard power supplies are truly isolated. Many budget supplies use circuit simulation or filtering to reduce noise rather than providing complete galvanic isolation between outputs. Truly isolated supplies like the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus, Truetone CS6, and Ghost FIRE use individual transformers for each output to eliminate ground loops and cross-talk completely. Check the manufacturer specifications for terms like fully isolated or individual transformers.
Do I need an isolated power supply for analog pedals?
If you only use analog pedals with no digital effects on your board, a non-isolated supply or daisy chain may work acceptably. However, even analog pedals can benefit from isolation because it prevents ground loops between pedals with different grounding schemes. If you mix any digital pedals with analog ones, true isolation becomes essential to prevent digital clock noise from bleeding into your analog signal chain.
Why is my pedal making a high-pitched whining noise?
A high-pitched whining noise from a pedal is typically caused by one of three things: a switching power supply without adequate filtering, a ground loop from a non-isolated supply, or a pedal receiving insufficient current. Digital pedals are especially prone to whining when they do not receive enough mA. Try moving the pedal to a different output, ensuring the mA rating exceeds the pedal requirement, or upgrading to a truly isolated power supply.
Can I plug a 9V pedal into a 12V or 18V outlet?
Never connect a 9V-rated pedal to a 12V or 18V output unless the pedal manufacturer explicitly states it can handle higher voltage. Doing so can permanently damage the pedal’s internal components. Always check your pedal’s voltage specification, usually printed near the power jack or in the manual. Some pedals are designed to operate at multiple voltages for different tonal characteristics, but this must be confirmed by the manufacturer.
What happens if I exceed the mA rating on a pedalboard power supply?
If a pedal tries to draw more current than the output provides, the pedal may malfunction, produce noise, or fail to power on. In some cases, the power supply output will shut down or the pedal will brown out under load. However, connecting a pedal that draws less current than the output provides is completely safe. Always ensure your power supply output mA rating meets or exceeds the pedal current requirement.
Why am I hearing a hum when using my pedalboard power supply?
Hum from a pedalboard power supply usually comes from ground loops, inadequate isolation, or poor cable shielding. A ground loop occurs when multiple pedals share a ground path, creating a loop that picks up electromagnetic interference. The solution is to use a truly isolated power supply that eliminates shared ground connections. Also check that your cables are properly shielded and that your amplifier and pedalboard share the same wall circuit.
Can I mount a pedalboard power supply without drilling?
Yes, several methods allow mounting without drilling into your pedalboard. Heavy-duty hook-and-loop fasteners like 3M Dual Lock work well for lighter supplies. Zip ties through existing vent holes or frame openings are another option. Some power supplies like the Truetone CS6 include mounting templates and brackets designed for specific pedalboard brands. For heavier units like the Voodoo Lab, adhesive mounting may not be secure enough for gigging.
Is it okay to daisy chain low-draw pedals off the same outlet?
Yes, daisy chaining low-current analog pedals (under 100mA each) off a single isolated output is a common and effective technique for expanding your board without buying a larger supply. The total current draw of all chained pedals must not exceed the output rating. Keep digital pedals on their own dedicated outputs, as they generate clock noise that can bleed through shared connections even on isolated supplies.
Final Thoughts on the Best Pedalboard Power Supplies
Finding the best pedalboard power supplies for your rig does not have to be complicated, but it does require honest assessment of your current and future needs. The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus remains our top pick for its unmatched reliability, sag feature, and proven track record across thousands of professional rigs. The Truetone CS6 offers the best value for players who need a slim, fully isolated supply that fits anywhere. And for budget-conscious builders, the Donner DP-1 and JOYO JP-02 provide a solid entry point into multi-output pedal power without breaking the bank.
Remember that your power supply is the foundation of your tone. Every pedal on your board depends on clean, stable power to sound its best. Invest in quality isolation now, and every pedal you add to your board in 2026 and beyond will benefit from the decision. Whether you are running three pedals or thirty, the right power supply makes all the difference.
