• Registered: 2014-01-11
  • Posts: 37

Topic: quick question about 18 volt ac adapters

I imagine there are many on this forum who certainly have their share of OD pedals and other stompboxes. I keep hearing how an 18v supply will draw out the full potential of a pedal as opposed to a 9v.
But other stompboxes, like chorus, tremolo, etc. I don't seem to be so clear on. I'm assuming the more versatility/options a pedal has, the more advantageous an 18v supply would be.
So is it kind of an 'unwritten rule' to use an 18v over a 9v, or would it be more 'as per pedal'? Thank you.

  • DougH
  • DougH
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Re: quick question about 18 volt ac adapters

I had a Slash Wah that was 18v but it required 18v.
most other pedals do have a large power range, but I don't think I would use a 18v source for the 'standard' 9v pedal.

with power systems like the voodoo, you can either use a cable that parallel the 9 volts to just give you higher current feed of 9v or you can get the cable that bridges them and you get 18v.

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(If only I had 1% of Joe's guitar talent)
  • macg1
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Re: quick question about 18 volt ac adapters

Use the appropriate voltage as stated by the manufacturer. Using 18V for a pedal that is not designed to take that much juice will certainly fry the pedal. When in doubt, read the instructions or write the manufacturer. Most pedals that can take a range of voltages have that written right on the pedal, like: 9-18V. If that is the case, use the higher voltage, always. My personal preference.

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  • Registered: 2014-01-11
  • Posts: 37

Re: quick question about 18 volt ac adapters

Gotcha. Thanks