Gear article

Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Straight to Right-Angle Cable (36 Inch)

The Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Straight to Right-Angle cable is a 36-inch (91.4 cm) power lead designed for connecting effects pedals to a power supply. It features standard center-positive polarity and is widely used for powering professional hardware from brands such as Boss, MXR, and TC Electronic.

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Overview

The Voodoo Lab 2.1mm Straight to Right-Angle cable is a fundamental accessory for guitarists and studio engineers building pedalboard setups. Measuring 36 inches (91.4 cm), it provides significant reach compared to standard patch-length power cables, allowing for more complex routing between power bricks and distant effects units. The cable is terminated with one straight barrel connector and one right-angled barrel connector, providing flexibility in how the cable is oriented within tight pedalboard layouts.

Technical Specifications

This cable utilises 2.1mm barrel plugs, which are the industry standard for most 9V and 12V effects pedals. It is configured with standard center-positive polarity. Despite the specific orientation of the plugs, the cable is non-directional, meaning either the straight or the right-angled connector can be inserted into the power supply or the pedal depending on the physical space available.

Compatibility

The cable is designed to be compatible with a vast range of industry-standard effects. Notable manufacturers supported include:

  • Boss
  • MXR/Dunlop
  • TC Electronic (including Nova series)
  • Line 6 (ToneCore series)
  • Ibanez

It is suitable for any device requiring a 2.1mm barrel connection with center-positive polarity, making it an essential component for users of Voodoo Lab Pedal Power units or compatible third-party power supplies.

Design and Application

The primary advantage of this specific model is its 36-inch length. While many pedalboards can be powered with shorter 18-inch leads, larger boards or setups involving off-board power supplies require the extra length this cable provides. The inclusion of a right-angled connector is particularly beneficial for top-mounted power jacks on pedals, as it reduces the vertical clearance required and puts less strain on the pedal's internal PCB.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the wider market for audio cabling, this power lead serves a different purpose than signal cables like the Ernie Ball P06049 10ft Instrument Cable or the Studiospares XLR patch cables. While instrument and XLR cables carry audio signals, the Voodoo Lab cable is strictly for DC power transmission. Compared to generic power leads, the Voodoo Lab variant is specifically gauged for the requirements of high-end pedalboard power supplies, offering a reliable fit for 2.1mm jacks that cheaper, non-branded alternatives may lack.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the length of this Voodoo Lab cable?
The cable measures 36 inches, which is approximately 91.4 centimetres. This provides extra length for routing power across larger pedalboard setups.
What type of connectors does this cable have?
It features one 2.1mm straight barrel connector and one 2.1mm right-angled barrel connector. This hybrid design allows for flexible mounting in tight spaces.
Is the cable directional?
No, the cable is not directional. You can plug either the straight or the right-angled connector into the pedal or the power supply.
What is the polarity of this cable?
The cable features standard center-positive polarity. It is designed to work with standard effects pedals that require this configuration.
Which pedal brands are compatible with this cable?
It is compatible with many brands including Boss, MXR, Dunlop, TC Electronic (Nova series), Line 6 (ToneCore), and Ibanez. Any pedal using a 2.1mm jack and center-positive polarity should work.
What size are the barrel plugs?
The plugs are 2.1mm, which is the most common size for guitar effects pedals. Users should ensure their device does not require the less common 2.5mm size before purchase.
Can I use this cable with a Voodoo Lab Pedal Power supply?
Yes, this cable is specifically designed to work with Voodoo Lab power supplies. It is a standard replacement or expansion lead for their product range.
Is this an audio patch cable?
No, this is a DC power cable designed to carry electricity to your pedals. It cannot be used to carry an audio signal between your guitar and amplifier.
How does the right-angle connector help?
The right-angle connector allows the cable to sit flush against the pedal. This saves space on a crowded pedalboard and reduces the risk of the cable being bumped or damaged.
What is the typical price for this cable?
The typical price for this cable is approximately £6.00. It is considered a very affordable and essential component for pedalboard maintenance.
Can this cable power Line 6 ToneCore pedals?
Yes, the manufacturer explicitly lists Line 6 ToneCore pedals as compatible devices for this cable. It provides the necessary 2.1mm connection.
Is the cable available in other lengths?
While this specific model is 36 inches, Voodoo Lab produces various cable lengths. However, the 36-inch version is ideal for reaching the furthest pedals on a large board.