In the first two posts I looked at the two basic types of pedals you need for the electric guitar role in a modern worship band. Now unless you want to spend all Sunday morning plugging them in, changing batteries and kicking them around there are a few other extras that will come in handy to save time and energy as your collection grows – it will grow! In fact think of them like shoes. Men, ask your better halves how many pairs of shoes is too many. I rest my case…
Pedal board
Getting a pedal board together is a real guitarists right of passage and so much more efficient than plugging in and unplugging everything all the time. Plus (and this is in no way the main reason that most guitarists get boards) it looks cool! Options are:
Power supply
Yes most pedals take batteries but don’t bother with them, they cost a fortune, run out at the most difficult moments and can be fiddly to constantly change. Get a decent power supply. Yes you could get a cheap generic wall wart, but do make sure the voltage is correct for the unit, polarity is set the right way and the connectors fit properly otherwise you could well fry your pedal. You are much better off getting one designed for guitar pedal applications. So again here is a list from cheap to expensive.
Patch cables
Finally if you’ve just spent good money on a pedal set up, don’t spoil it by using cheap patch cables between pedals. Those cheap multi–coloured ones from Maplins or Radio Shack can reduce your tone, break easily and pick up noise. The same applies to guitar cables too.
Tip – Straight non angled plugs can take up loads of space so if you are trying to cram a few pedals onto one board try to get cables with small 90 degree plugs to save room. Here are some ideas:
If you’ve found this article helpful we know there will be loads you will love on our worship guitar DVDs and downloads. Check them out.
Which pedals do I need to start playing in a worship band? Part 1, part 2 & part 3
Flow chart – Do you have too many guitars?
Small amp, great sound – part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4 and part 5