What is the battery capacity of the Chord Portable Power Bank?

The unit features a substantial 10,000mAh capacity. This allows for long-duration use when powering multiple standard guitar effect pedals.

How many pedals can it power at once?

It features dual 9Vdc outputs. While it has two physical DC ports, users can often use daisy-chain cables to power additional pedals, provided the total current draw does not exceed the unit's limit.

Does it have a USB port?

Yes, it includes a USB port for charging mobile devices. This is useful for powering smartphones or tablets used for backing tracks or setlists.

Is this power bank suitable for street performers?

Yes, it is specifically designed for mobile use. Its cordless operation makes it an ideal solution for busking where mains power is unavailable.

What is the typical price for this unit?

The Chord Portable Effect Pedal Power Bank typically retails for approximately £49.00.

Does it include any lighting features?

Yes, it has a built-in LED light. This feature is intended to provide visibility on dark stages or in low-light environments.

Can it power a Boss DD-3T Digital Delay?

Yes, it is designed to power standard 9Vdc pedals like the Boss DD-3T. Its dual outputs make it compatible with most standard guitar effects.

Is the unit heavy to carry?

No, the manufacturer describes it as having a compact and lightweight design. It is built to fit easily into a standard gig bag for transport.

What voltage are the DC outputs?

The DC outputs are rated at 9Vdc. This is the standard voltage requirement for the vast majority of guitar effect pedals.

Will it work with an Electro Harmonix Big Muff?

Yes, it is compatible with standard 9V effects such as the Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer. Ensure the correct polarity cables are used for connection.

Does it help reduce mains hum?

Because the unit runs on battery power, it is physically isolated from the mains electricity. This typically eliminates ground loops and noise caused by poor venue wiring.

Can it charge a tablet while powering pedals?

Yes, the inclusion of a USB port alongside the dual DC outputs allows for simultaneous charging of a tablet and powering of effects.

Gear article

Chord Portable Effect Pedal Power Bank

The Chord Portable Effect Pedal Power Bank is a mobile power solution designed to provide 9Vdc electricity to guitar effects pedals without the need for mains connection. Featuring a 10,000mAh capacity and dual DC outputs, it is engineered for musicians who require reliable, portable power for stage or street performances.

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Overview

The Chord Portable Effect Pedal Power Bank is a specialised lithium-ion battery unit designed to eliminate the need for traditional mains power adapters or individual 9V batteries in guitar pedalboards. It addresses common issues such as mains hum, ground loops, and the lack of power outlets in outdoor or unconventional performance spaces. The unit is housed in a compact, lightweight chassis intended for inclusion in gig bags or attachment to small-to-medium pedalboard setups.

Functionality and Key Features

The device operates as a central hub for pedal power, offering several distinct utilities:

Dual DC Outputs: Two dedicated 9Vdc outputs allow the unit to power multiple pedals simultaneously, provided the total current draw remains within the unit's specifications.
10,000mAh Capacity: This high-capacity internal battery provides extended run times, suitable for long sets or full-day street performances.
USB Connectivity: A standard USB port is included, allowing musicians to charge secondary devices such as smartphones or tablets during use.
Integrated Lighting: A built-in LED light provides utility in low-light environments, assisting with pedalboard adjustments or equipment cable management on dark stages.

Applications

This power bank is primarily aimed at 'buskers' or street performers who lack access to mains electricity. It is also highly effective for touring musicians looking to reduce the weight of their setups or those who wish to isolate their signal chain from noisy venue power grids. Its compact form factor makes it compatible with a wide range of gear, including the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay, Fender Hammertone Flanger, and Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer.

Comparison and Compatibility

Compared to traditional power supplies like the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor's power pass-through or standard wall-wart adapters, the Chord Power Bank offers complete isolation from the AC mains. This often results in a lower noise floor. While it serves the same purpose as high-end multi-output isolated power bricks, its primary advantage is its cordless nature. It is capable of powering a variety of standard 9V pedals, from the Digitech Whammy Ricochet to the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus, provided polarity and current requirements are met.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the battery capacity of the Chord Portable Power Bank?: The unit features a substantial 10,000mAh capacity. This allows for long-duration use when powering multiple standard guitar effect pedals.
How many pedals can it power at once?: It features dual 9Vdc outputs. While it has two physical DC ports, users can often use daisy-chain cables to power additional pedals, provided the total current draw does not exceed the unit's limit.
Does it have a USB port?: Yes, it includes a USB port for charging mobile devices. This is useful for powering smartphones or tablets used for backing tracks or setlists.
Is this power bank suitable for street performers?: Yes, it is specifically designed for mobile use. Its cordless operation makes it an ideal solution for busking where mains power is unavailable.
What is the typical price for this unit?: The Chord Portable Effect Pedal Power Bank typically retails for approximately £49.00.
Does it include any lighting features?: Yes, it has a built-in LED light. This feature is intended to provide visibility on dark stages or in low-light environments.
Can it power a Boss DD-3T Digital Delay?: Yes, it is designed to power standard 9Vdc pedals like the Boss DD-3T. Its dual outputs make it compatible with most standard guitar effects.
Is the unit heavy to carry?: No, the manufacturer describes it as having a compact and lightweight design. It is built to fit easily into a standard gig bag for transport.
What voltage are the DC outputs?: The DC outputs are rated at 9Vdc. This is the standard voltage requirement for the vast majority of guitar effect pedals.
Will it work with an Electro Harmonix Big Muff?: Yes, it is compatible with standard 9V effects such as the Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer. Ensure the correct polarity cables are used for connection.
Does it help reduce mains hum?: Because the unit runs on battery power, it is physically isolated from the mains electricity. This typically eliminates ground loops and noise caused by poor venue wiring.
Can it charge a tablet while powering pedals?: Yes, the inclusion of a USB port alongside the dual DC outputs allows for simultaneous charging of a tablet and powering of effects.