Gear article

Warwick RockBoard Flat Daisy Chain Cable 2-Way Angled

The Warwick RockBoard Flat Daisy Chain Cable 2-Way Angled is a compact power distribution solution designed to link two effects pedals to a single power supply output. It utilizes a space-saving flat cable design and shielded conductors to provide neat, low-noise power routing for guitar pedalboards.

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Overview

The Warwick RockBoard Flat Daisy Chain Cable is a specialised utility designed for pedalboard power management. Drawing inspiration from the slim profile of RockBoard’s Flat Patch Cables, this daisy chain is engineered to address the common issue of cable clutter and connector bulk on crowded boards. By allowing a single power outlet to drive two separate units, it simplifies the electrical layout of a rig.

Design and Key Features

The primary design feature of this cable is its ultra-compact, angled barrel connectors. These low-profile plugs are intended to sit flush against the pedals, maximising the usable surface area of the pedalboard.

Construction details include: * Flat Cable Geometry: The thin, rectangular cross-section allows the cable to be tucked under pedals or through tight gaps. * Shielded Construction: Unlike standard unshielded power cables, this model features a central conductor surrounded by twisted copper shielding. This design is specifically intended to mitigate electrical interference and reduce induced noise in the signal path. * 2-Way Distribution: It features one input socket and two outputs, ideal for small setups or expanding existing power supply capacity.

Sound and Performance Character

While power cables do not process audio directly, their construction can influence the noise floor of a guitar rig. The inclusion of twisted copper shielding helps protect the power line from electromagnetic interference (EMI). This contributes to a cleaner signal path compared to conventional, unshielded daisy chains, which can sometimes act as antennae for hum and buzz.

Suitability and Applications

This cable is best suited for musicians using compact pedalboards where every millimetre of space is critical. It is an effective solution for players who have run out of outputs on their primary power brick but wish to add one more low-draw pedal. Due to the angled nature of the plugs, it is particularly useful for pedals with side-mounted power jacks.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard round-wire daisy chains, the RockBoard Flat version offers superior space management and noise rejection. While many generic cables use simple parallel wires, the twisted copper shielding here provides a technical advantage in high-gain environments. In the broader context of cabling, such as the Studiospares Standard XLR or Ernie Ball P06049 Instrument Cables, this product serves a niche power-specific function rather than signal transmission.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of the Warwick RockBoard Flat Daisy Chain?
It allows a musician to power two effects pedals from a single output on a power supply. This is particularly useful for saving space and managing limited power outlets.
How many pedals can this specific cable power?
This specific model is a 2-way cable, meaning it features two output connectors to power two pedals. It connects to the power supply via one input socket.
What makes the connectors 'flat'?
The barrel connectors are designed with a very low profile and an angled shape. This allows them to fit into tight spaces where standard straight plugs might be too bulky.
Does this cable help with noise?
Yes, it features a central conductor surrounded by twisted copper shielding. This design helps protect against electrical interference, which can reduce unwanted hum in the audio signal.
What is the typical price for this cable?
The typical price for the RockBoard Flat Daisy Chain Cable 2-Way Angled is approximately £5.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Is the cable design based on other RockBoard products?
Yes, it is based on the design of RockBoard's popular Flat Patch Cables. It shares the same philosophy of minimising footprint and keeping pedalboard runs neat.
Can I use this with any pedalboard?
It is compatible with most standard 9V DC pedal setups that use barrel-style connectors. It is particularly ideal for compact or expanding pedalboards.
Are the connectors straight or angled?
The connectors on this daisy chain are angled. This helps to keep the cable close to the pedal and prevents it from sticking out awkwardly.
How does the shielding work?
The twisted copper shielding acts as a barrier against electromagnetic interference. This is an upgrade over conventional unshielded power cables that are prone to noise.
Who is the manufacturer of this cable?
The cable is manufactured by Warwick, a company well-known for their RockBoard line of pedalboard accessories and bass guitars.
Is this a signal cable or a power cable?
This is a power cable designed to carry DC voltage to pedals. It should not be confused with instrument patch cables like the Ernie Ball P06049 which carry audio signals.
Why should I choose a flat cable over a round one?
Flat cables are easier to route under pedals and through narrow gaps in a pedalboard frame. They help maintain a tidier and more organised setup compared to traditional round cables.