Keeping battery powered pedals plugged in

[funkyebk]

For the longest time I was a no-effects guy, or at the most one pedal between my bass and amp. Well, that's changed and I'm starting to see the light, or be lured by the dark side... I'm so confused.

When it was one pedal I powered it with a 9v and plugged and un-plugged when I was done. Got a second pedal, it's not that much more trouble... Added 2 more and now I'm wondering what to do.

I know I eventually want to get a Voodoo Labs or similar power supply, but that's not in the budget for this month, so for the next few weeks is it ok to keep the pedals plugged in on battery power? Will they drain the same way an active pre will drain if you keep it plugged in, or does the effect have to be engaged for the battery to drain?

Keep in mind I'm not planning on doing this forever, just until I decide on and get a decent power supply.

[keiththebassist]

Yes, With a cable plugged into the input side of a pedal powered by a 9v battery it will drain all the time whether the effect is on or not, same way and active preamp will. Leaving the output side plugged in is totally fine.

[funkyebk]

Thanks. I knew there was something like that... memories from HS garage band days with a guitarist unplugging all his boss pedals every time he left to go pee.

I'm off to go scrounge change in the cushions of the couch. There goes my retirement fund.

[scottfeldstein]

Originally Posted by funkyebk

I know I eventually want to get a Voodoo Labs or similar power supply, but that's not in the budget for this month

Dude, those are like $140. Why not get yourself a One Spot. $30 off Amazon.

Amazon.com: Visual Sound One Spot Combo Pack: Musical Instruments

[funkyebk]

Originally Posted by scottfeldstein

Dude, those are like $140. Why not get yourself a One Spot. $30 off Amazon.

Amazon.com: Visual Sound One Spot Combo Pack: Musical Instruments

May have to check that out... I didn't realize those things actually worked!

[keiththebassist]

Originally Posted by scottfeldstein

Dude, those are like $140. Why not get yourself a One Spot. $30 off Amazon.

Amazon.com: Visual Sound One Spot Combo Pack: Musical Instruments

+1 I have one powering my board, cheap, easy, never failed me.

[scottfeldstein]

Originally Posted by funkyebk

May have to check that out... I didn't realize those things actually worked!

Mine works fine. And if you're nervous about reliability, get two of them. Leave one in your bag for emergencies.