What is the primary function of the Voodoo Lab Voltage Doubling Cable?

The primary function is to combine two isolated outputs from a power supply to create a single output with double the voltage. For example, it can turn two 9V outputs into one 18V output.

How long is the cable?

The cable measures 18 inches in length. This is generally sufficient for most standard pedalboard layouts and routing needs.

What type of connectors does this cable use?

It features three 2.1mm straight barrel connectors. These are standard for the majority of guitar pedals and Voodoo Lab power supplies.

Can I use this cable to create 24V?

Yes, if the cable is connected to two 12V outputs on a Pedal Power unit, it will provide a total of 24V to the pedal. It is designed to scale based on the input voltage.

Does this cable increase the amperage (mA) of my power supply?

No, this is a voltage doubling cable, not a current doubling cable. It increases the voltage while the current remains limited to the capacity of a single output.

Which specific pedals are known to work with this cable?

It is confirmed to work with the MXR Flanger, Dime Distortion, and Crybaby 535Q. It is also compatible with many Fulltone and Keeley products that require higher voltage.

Do I need a specific power supply to use this?

Yes, it is designed for use with Voodoo Lab Pedal Power outputs or similar isolated power supplies. The outputs must be isolated to safely double the voltage.

How many connectors are on this cable?

The cable has a total of three connectors. Two connect to the power supply and one connects to the pedal itself.

Is the cable affordable compared to buying a new power supply?

Yes, with a typical price range of around £6, it is a very inexpensive way to power high-voltage pedals without purchasing additional hardware.

Will a straight connector fit my pedal better than a right-angled one?

Straight connectors are often preferred for pedals with recessed power sockets. However, they may require more vertical clearance on a crowded pedalboard than right-angled versions.

Can I use this cable with non-Voodoo Lab power supplies?

While designed for Voodoo Lab products, it will work with any power supply that uses standard 2.1mm barrel outputs, provided the outputs are isolated.

What happens if I connect this to two 9V outputs for a 9V pedal?

This is not recommended, as it will provide 18V to the pedal. You must ensure your pedal is rated for 18V or 24V before using this doubling cable to avoid damaging the circuit.

Gear article

Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Straight Voltage Doubling Cable 18 Inch

The Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Straight Voltage Doubling Cable is a specialised power accessory designed to combine two outputs from a Pedal Power supply to provide 18V or 24V to a single effect pedal. Measuring 18 inches in length, it features three straight barrel connectors and serves as a cost-effective alternative to dedicated high-voltage power bricks.

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Overview

The Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Straight Voltage Doubling Cable (model PPY) is a utility cable developed for guitarists who require higher voltage for specific pedals than a standard 9V output can provide. The cable consists of two plugs that connect to the power supply unit and a single plug that connects to the pedal. By wiring the two power supply outputs in series, the cable effectively doubles the voltage, turning two 9V outputs into one 18V output, or two 12V outputs into one 24V output.

Design and Compatibility

The cable features 2.1mm straight barrel connectors, which are the industry standard for most guitar effects. It is 18 inches long, providing sufficient reach to route power from a pedalboard's mounted power supply to the pedal surface.

It is specifically compatible with high-voltage pedals that require 18V or 24V. Notable examples include: * MXR Flanger * MXR Dime Distortion * Dunlop Crybaby 535Q * Various Fulltone products * Select Keeley electronics

Functionality

To function correctly, both input plugs must be connected to isolated outputs on a compatible power supply, such as the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power series. It is important to note that this cable doubles voltage, not current (milliamps). Users should ensure their power supply outputs are isolated to avoid short circuits. The straight connector design is particularly suited for pedals with recessed power jacks or those positioned in a way where right-angled plugs might be obstructed.

Market Position and Alternatives

Retailing at approximately £6, this cable offers a significantly cheaper solution than purchasing a dedicated 18V power adapter or a new power supply with high-voltage taps. While there are generic alternatives like the Studiospares Standard XLR or Ernie Ball instrument cables for audio signal paths, the Voodoo Lab PPY is a dedicated power solution. It is often compared to current-doubling cables (which increase milliamps) or polarity-reversing cables, though its specific purpose is voltage modification.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Voodoo Lab Voltage Doubling Cable?: The primary function is to combine two isolated outputs from a power supply to create a single output with double the voltage. For example, it can turn two 9V outputs into one 18V output.
How long is the cable?: The cable measures 18 inches in length. This is generally sufficient for most standard pedalboard layouts and routing needs.
What type of connectors does this cable use?: It features three 2.1mm straight barrel connectors. These are standard for the majority of guitar pedals and Voodoo Lab power supplies.
Can I use this cable to create 24V?: Yes, if the cable is connected to two 12V outputs on a Pedal Power unit, it will provide a total of 24V to the pedal. It is designed to scale based on the input voltage.
Does this cable increase the amperage (mA) of my power supply?: No, this is a voltage doubling cable, not a current doubling cable. It increases the voltage while the current remains limited to the capacity of a single output.
Which specific pedals are known to work with this cable?: It is confirmed to work with the MXR Flanger, Dime Distortion, and Crybaby 535Q. It is also compatible with many Fulltone and Keeley products that require higher voltage.
Do I need a specific power supply to use this?: Yes, it is designed for use with Voodoo Lab Pedal Power outputs or similar isolated power supplies. The outputs must be isolated to safely double the voltage.
How many connectors are on this cable?: The cable has a total of three connectors. Two connect to the power supply and one connects to the pedal itself.
Is the cable affordable compared to buying a new power supply?: Yes, with a typical price range of around £6, it is a very inexpensive way to power high-voltage pedals without purchasing additional hardware.
Will a straight connector fit my pedal better than a right-angled one?: Straight connectors are often preferred for pedals with recessed power sockets. However, they may require more vertical clearance on a crowded pedalboard than right-angled versions.
Can I use this cable with non-Voodoo Lab power supplies?: While designed for Voodoo Lab products, it will work with any power supply that uses standard 2.1mm barrel outputs, provided the outputs are isolated.
What happens if I connect this to two 9V outputs for a 9V pedal?: This is not recommended, as it will provide 18V to the pedal. You must ensure your pedal is rated for 18V or 24V before using this doubling cable to avoid damaging the circuit.