Gear article

Truetone 1 Spot Combo Pack

The Truetone 1 Spot Combo Pack is a comprehensive 9V DC power supply solution designed for guitar effects pedals. It features a high-capacity wall-adapter and a suite of converters to provide power for both modern and vintage effects while occupying only a single socket on a power strip.

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Overview

The Truetone 1 Spot Combo Pack is an all-in-one power solution for musicians using multiple guitar effects pedals. The core of the pack is the 1 Spot 9V DC power supply, a switching power adapter that provides high current output to drive multiple pedals simultaneously. The 'Combo Pack' designation refers to the inclusion of several specific adapters that allow the unit to interface with various power input standards found across different pedal eras and brands.

Included Components and Connectivity

The Combo Pack is distinguished by its versatility, including several essential accessories for a pedalboard setup:

  • Multi-plug cable: Enables the connection of several pedals to the single power source.
  • Battery clip converters: Allows power to be supplied to vintage pedals that do not have a DC jack, connecting instead to the internal battery clip.
  • 1/8" (3.5mm) converters: Necessary for older pedals or specific brands (like some vintage EHX units) that use a mini-jack style power input.
  • L6 converter: Designed for Line 6 modelling pedals and other units requiring a larger barrel connector.

Design and Utility

One of the primary design advantages of the 1 Spot is its slim profile. Unlike traditional 'wall-wart' transformers, the 1 Spot is designed to occupy only one space on a power strip or wall outlet, preventing it from blocking adjacent sockets. The three-metre cable provides significant reach, allowing for flexible placement of a pedalboard relative to the nearest power source. This makes it a space-efficient alternative to bulky power bricks or multiple individual adapters.

Suitability and Compatibility

The 1 Spot Combo Pack is suitable for guitarists ranging from beginners with a few pedals to professionals needing a lightweight, backup power solution. It is compatible with a vast array of industry-standard pedals, such as the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor, Boss DD-3T Digital Delay, and the Fender Hammertone Flanger. Its included converters also ensure it can power more specialised units like the Digitech Whammy Ricochet or the Electro Harmonix Big Muff with Tone Wicker.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to individual power supplies or large isolated power bricks, the 1 Spot Combo Pack offers a balance of portability and utility. While it does not offer the isolated outputs found in high-end power bricks, its high current capacity and included adapter kit provide more flexibility than a standard single-output adapter. It is frequently chosen over basic power supplies for its ability to handle vintage equipment alongside modern pedals like the Behringer UC200 or Dunlop Mick Ronson Cry Baby Wah.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Truetone 1 Spot Combo Pack?
The pack includes a 1 Spot 9v DC power supply, a multi-plug cable, battery clip converters, 1/8" (3.5mm) converters, and an L6 converter. These allow the unit to power a wide range of pedals regardless of their age or input type.
How many sockets does the 1 Spot adapter take up?
The 1 Spot is designed to take up only one socket on a wall outlet or power strip. Its slim design ensures it does not block adjacent outlets, which is a common issue with larger power supplies.
What is the length of the power cable?
The 1 Spot power supply features a 3-metre (approximately 10 feet) cable. This provides ample reach for connecting a pedalboard to distant power outlets on stage or in a studio.
Can the 1 Spot power vintage pedals without DC jacks?
Yes, the Combo Pack includes battery clip converters specifically for this purpose. These plug into the internal 9V battery connector of the pedal to provide power externally.
Is this power supply compatible with Line 6 pedals?
Yes, the pack includes an L6 converter. This adapter allows the 1 Spot to power Line 6 modelling pedals and other devices that require a larger barrel connector.
What voltage does the Truetone 1 Spot provide?
The 1 Spot provides a regulated 9V DC output. This is the standard voltage requirement for the vast majority of guitar effects pedals currently on the market.
Can I power multiple pedals at once with this pack?
Yes, the included multi-plug cable allows you to daisy-chain several pedals to the single 1 Spot adapter. The unit is designed to handle the current draw of multiple effects simultaneously.
Does it work with pedals that have a 3.5mm power jack?
Yes, the Combo Pack includes 1/8" (3.5mm) converters. These are used for pedals, often older models, that use a mini-phone jack rather than a standard barrel jack for power.
Will this power a Boss DD-3T or NS-2?
Yes, the 1 Spot is fully compatible with standard Boss pedals like the DD-3T Digital Delay and the NS-2 Noise Suppressor. These pedals use the standard 9V DC barrel connection provided.
Is the 1 Spot Combo Pack suitable for the Digitech Whammy Ricochet?
Yes, the 1 Spot can power the Digitech Whammy Ricochet. As long as the total current draw of your pedals does not exceed the unit's capacity, it will function correctly.
How much does the Truetone 1 Spot Combo Pack typically cost in the UK?
The typical price for the Truetone 1 Spot Combo Pack in the UK is approximately £42. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer or current promotions.
Can it be used with the Electro Harmonix Big Muff with Tone Wicker?
Yes, the 1 Spot is compatible with the Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer w/ Tone Wicker. It provides the necessary 9V DC power required for this specific distortion pedal.