Can you "tap in" to your amps AC cord to power a pedal?

SteveC · #1 02-28-2010, 02:36 PM

Not sure which forum this belongs in but I'll start here.

I like to keep it simple. I use a Korg CA-30 tuner out of the tuner out of my Shuttle 6.0 head. I sometimes like to use a compressor. I have a BBE Opto Stomp that seems to do the trick for me. I don't really want to drag the AC adapter for the BBE along and I like that I have just one thing - my amp - to plug in. No multi strips, ground issues, etc. I also don't want to use a battery for the compressor. Expensive, don't last that long, etc.

So I'm wondering...the BBE doesn't draw that much power. Could one splice into the power going to your amp and use that to run the pedal as well? I'm thinking strip the insulation and find the "+" and "-" and do the same with the end of the AC cable for the BBE.

What would I mess up doing this? Does it make any sense?

Exploiter8 · #2 02-28-2010, 02:44 PM

There are daisy chain power cords that do this...Give me a moment to find it.

rratajski · #3 02-28-2010, 02:44 PM

It seems like less work and less risk to just use a power strip/surge protector, man.

DRafalske · #4 02-28-2010, 02:45 PM

First and probably most importantly: that would be extremely unsafe.
I wouldn't work anyway, since your amp runs on 120 volts, and the pedal needs 9 volts.

cheapbasslovin · #5 02-28-2010, 02:45 PM

A. This wouldn't work; 120vac will destroy a pedal that runs off 9vdc.

B. This is an excellent way to get yourself, your gear, or your environment hurt and killed.

Exploiter8 · #6 02-28-2010, 02:46 PM

http://www.samedaymusic.com/product--HOSPWD4

I use these on my combo and heads. WORKS GREAT! Plus, ANY extension cord works for power!

X8

jchrisk1 · #7 02-28-2010, 02:46 PM

Your pedal will burn up faster than it took me to type this.

rratajski · #8 02-28-2010, 02:48 PM

sig'd.

Exploiter8 · #9 02-28-2010, 02:48 PM

YIKES! I guess I misunderstood the Original Post, oh well...C'mon TEAM USA!!!

X8

Renaissance · #10 02-28-2010, 02:49 PM

OK, maybe I'm missing something here. Are you talking about splicing into your amps AC power cord to supply DC power to your BBE?

M0ses · #11 02-28-2010, 02:52 PM

You could rig something up if you're knowledgeable about that sort of thing. It would be very convenient. But based on the fact that you asked TB, I'm guessing that you aren't, and very much recommend you don't attempt it.

wizay · #12 02-28-2010, 02:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rratajski

It seems like less work and less risk to just use a power strip/surge protector, man.

+1

greencow · #13 02-28-2010, 03:10 PM

In theory it could be done. But in reality it would be troublesome and time consuming to set up something that is reliable, actually works as good as a separate adapter(some digital components can be realy picky when it comes to voltage, one of the reasons why rechargable batteries are not the best choice for pedals) and is not a potential deathtrap...

RickenBoogie · #14 02-28-2010, 03:10 PM

2nd "worst ever" idea I've read on TB today.

rr5025 · #15 02-28-2010, 03:49 PM

It will only work if you stand in a pool of water and hold the bare wires together with your toes. That sounds like a really bad idea man go with the power strip.

JustDavid · #16 02-28-2010, 04:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

2nd "worst ever" idea I've read on TB today.

Was "worst" the dude who wants to water-cool his amp?

RickenBoogie · #17 02-28-2010, 04:06 PM

YES!!

JustDavid · #18 02-28-2010, 04:12 PM

I'm glad; hate to have 3 doozies herein in one day

SteveC · #19 02-28-2010, 04:19 PM

OK, bad idea. I don't know, I'm not electronics guy.

This is interesting. Still have the wall wart but only one power cord.

http://www.samedaymusic.com/product--HOSPWD4

Too bad I didn't make the #1 worst idea.