Gear article
Voodoo Lab Pedal Power X4 Expander Kit
The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power X4 Expander Kit is a compact power distribution module designed to add four additional 9V DC outlets to an existing Voodoo Lab power system. It features high-current outputs capable of 500mA each and utilizes multi-pole filtering to maintain signal integrity and eliminate noise in guitar effect pedal chains.
See live pricesOverview
The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power X4 Expander Kit is an add-on solution designed for guitarists who need to increase the capacity of their current pedalboard power setup without replacing their entire power supply. It serves as an extension unit that adds four high-current isolated 9V DC outputs to a rig.
Constructed with a lightweight and compact chassis, the X4 Expander is specifically engineered to fit onto crowded pedalboards where space is at a premium. The unit is intended to work in conjunction with the standard Voodoo Lab Pedal Power X4 or other compatible Voodoo Lab power sources, allowing for modular growth of a musician's effects setup.
Technical Features and Design
The core functionality of the X4 Expander Kit lies in its four independent 9V DC outlets. Each of these outlets is capable of delivering up to 500mA of current, making the unit suitable for modern, high-draw digital effects such as the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay or the Digitech Whammy Ricochet.
To ensure audio quality, Voodoo Lab employs a multi-pole filtering system. This technology is designed to eliminate unwanted hum, hiss, and electronic interference that can often occur when multiple pedals are powered from a single source. The result is a clean DC signal that preserves the natural dynamics and clarity of the guitar's tone.
Performance and Sound Character
While a power supply does not produce sound itself, its impact on the performance of effect pedals is significant. The X4 Expander ensures that pedals receive consistent, stable voltage, which is essential for maintaining the headroom and frequency response of effects like the Fender Hammertone Flanger or the Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer. By providing clean power through its filtering circuitry, the unit helps to achieve 'scintillating effects' with improved dynamism and lower noise floors.
Comparison and Compatibility
The X4 Expander Kit occupies a unique niche compared to standalone power supplies. Unlike a primary power brick, it is designed to be powered from an existing 12V output on a main Voodoo Lab unit. This modular approach is more cost-effective for users who already own a Voodoo Lab system than purchasing a completely new, larger power supply.
In terms of output, its 500mA per-port rating places it above many entry-level power supplies that may only offer 100mA or 200mA per port. This makes it a more robust choice for digital-heavy boards containing pedals like the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus or noise reduction tools like the Boss NS-2.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power X4 Expander Kit?
- It is a compact power distribution unit that adds four 9V DC outlets to an existing Voodoo Lab power supply setup. It is designed to expand the capacity of a pedalboard without requiring a secondary wall outlet.
- How many outlets does the X4 Expander provide?
- The unit provides four additional 9V DC outlets for powering effects pedals.
- What is the maximum current output per port?
- Each of the four outlets can handle up to 500mA, providing enough power for high-draw digital pedals.
- Does this unit require a separate power cable to a wall outlet?
- No, as an 'Expander Kit,' it is designed to be powered from a 12V output on a compatible Voodoo Lab power supply unit.
- How does the X4 Expander handle electrical noise?
- It features a proprietary multi-pole filtering system that removes unwanted noise and interference from the power signal, ensuring crystal-clear audio.
- Is the X4 Expander suitable for small pedalboards?
- Yes, its compact and lightweight stature makes it ideal for mounting on even the most crowded or small-scale pedalboards.
- Can I use this with a Boss DD-3T Digital Delay?
- Yes, the 500mA 9V outputs are more than sufficient to power digital delays like the Boss DD-3T.
- Will this power a Digitech Whammy Ricochet?
- Yes, the X4 Expander provides the necessary 9V DC and high current capacity required by the Digitech Whammy Ricochet.
- Is the X4 Expander compatible with the Electro Harmonix Big Muff?
- Yes, it can easily power the Big Muff Distortion Sustainer with Tone Wicker, providing the stable 9V power needed for consistent saturation.
- What voltage are the outputs on the X4 Expander?
- All four outputs on the X4 Expander are rated at 9V DC.
- What is the typical price for the X4 Expander Kit?
- The typical price for this unit is approximately GBP 106.
- Does the unit improve the sound of pedals?
- By providing stable, filtered power, it prevents noise and ensures that pedals operate at their full dynamic potential, resulting in clearer sound.
