MusicRadar Verdict
With its switchable voltages and seven high-current outlets, the PowerMax will supply most DC pedals and is a compact and efficient option for pedalboard power.
Pros
- +
High-current outputs offer up to 660mA at 9V
- +
Switchable voltages.
- +
PowerMax is only an inch thick.
- +
Expandable system.
Cons
- -
Quite pricey.
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What is it?
A pedalboard is nothing without a good power unit capable of distributing power to most if not all of your pedals, keeping your cabling tidy and signal path hum-free.
Such is the variety of pedals on today's market, bonus points go to pedalboard power supplies that offer high-current values and switchable voltages. High-current capability is especially attractive in an era when multi-functional digital pedals from the likes of Strymon and Wampler are fast becoming essentials for those looking to build a serious 'board.
As the pedals at our feet evolve, so do the power supplies. Eventide has led the way when it comes to high-current pedals and it is only logical they should offer some options when it comes to powering them. These PowerMax and PowerMini DC supplies offer players the chance to expand their DC supply network as their pedalboard grows.
The PowerMax has seven high-current power outlets but – via a dedicated 24-volt auxiliary power output and single cable – it can bring a PowerMini expander to add an extra four power outlets. As an extension device, the PowerMini is available for £119, with a standalone version available for £139.
Performance and verdict
As you'll notice from the enclosures, the PowerMax and PowerMini unit were built in collaboration with the Danish power supply company Cioks.
They are remarkably compact. The PowerMax is just 25mm thick, which makes it ideal for keeping it out of the way. It offers a trio of 9V outlets, with four outputs switchable between nine, 12, 15 and 18 volts. It's a feature you might not think you need until you do.
With many of today's 9V pedals, there is the option to run them at a higher voltage and this gives you the opportunity to do that here.
• Strymon Zuma/Ojai
Designed for the Strymon, this expandable system offers a whopping 500mA on every output, with automatic switchable voltages.
• Voodoo Lab Pedal Power Mondo
With a dozen outputs with switchable voltages and a pair of high-current outputs for digital effects, the Mondo is ideal for larger 'boards.
• Voodoo Lab Pedal Power Digital
This is a godsend for heavy users of digital effects.
At 9V, each of the outputs can put out up to 660mA of current, comfortably accommodating any of Eventide's pedals, Strymon pedals, and the larger Boss 200 and 500 series units.
Noise is kept to a minimum, with each of the power outlets isolated. Expansion is easy. Just attach the 60cm capable to the PowerMini and you are good to go. The PowerMax even has a USB port so you can charge your phone or similarly compatible device.
MusicRadar verdict: With its switchable voltages and seven high-current outlets, the PowerMax will supply most DC pedals and is a compact and efficient option for pedalboard power.
The web says
"After wiring up PowerMax to feed my Strymon, Eventide, Fulltone and TC Electronic pedals, along with a few others, I can tell you it’s dead quiet and one of the most efficient power supplies I’ve ever used. It’s so reliable that there’s no going back to anything else, and by the way, thanks to that USB outlet, my iPhone was fully charged after the gig so I could Waze my way back home."
Guitar World
Hands-on demos
Max Solo Music
CIOKS
Eventide Audio
Specifications
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Pedalboard power supply
- FEATURES: 660mA outlets, selectable output voltages, LED status indicator for individual outlets, good selection of connection cable included, 3-colour LED power meter, expansion possibility (with PowerMini), usable worldwide (85-265VAC)
- CONTROLS: DIP switches to set voltage on 4 outlets
- CONNECTIONS: 9V outlets x3, switchable (9, 12, 15 or 18V) outlets x4, 24V Aux power output, USB, IEC
- POWER: Supplied IEC mains cable
- DIMENSIONS: 160 (w) x 88 (d) x 25mm (h)
- CONTACT: Eventide Audio
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