Cool 2009 NAMM Find: Voodoo Labs Switchers & Power Supplies
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Had the Voodoo Labs PX-8 or PX-4 Switchers been around a while back, I would probably be using a larger pedal rig today. These switchers are a great idea for effectively stringing stomp boxes together.
When stomp boxes are bypassed, they seldom allow for a pure guitar signal to get to the amp. They have a tendency to color your guitar sound, and not for the better. Most boutique pedal companies have dealt with this problem by creating a “true bypass” circuit. A majority of stomp boxes are not “true bypass”.
Voodoo Labs has created a couple of units that will allow for a great guitar tone even if you have a bunch of pedals between your guitar and amp.
The PX-4 and PX-8 Switchers allow for having a “true bypass” circuit on each pedal or effect unit that is routed into the loops. When the button for that effect is on, the pedal is nicely placed in your signal chain. When the button is off, the pedal or effect is completely removed from your signal chain.
A great feature on the PX-8 is a tip-ring-sleeve insert point between loops 6 and 7. This would be a great spot to place a volume pedal or, a preamp with a volume pedal. Loop 7 and 8 could then be used for delays or reverb. The PX-4 also has an insert between loops 3 and 4.
Another great feature is the Switcher’s ability to be controlled via MIDI. This allows for several different pedal combinations with the hit of one button. This is also great news for guitarists who want to integrate stomp boxes into their rack systems.
Voodoo Labs has also created some great power supplies that will take care any noise issues that arise from less than quality power.
