Tools for the Task: Pedalboards

So you have a killer pedal collection, but lack organizational skills. Or maybe you’re new to the wonderful world of effects and need a blank slate on which to start. Regardless, a dependable and efficient pedalboard is a must for any tone shaper, and we’ve rounded up a collection of options to help you get started in finding what’s right for you.

These aluminum pedalboards with a modified rail design are built with players in mind who use true-bypass switchers or want an extra rail to better accommodate a wide range of configurations. The heavy-duty tour case will help keep your pedals safe on the road. Inspired by skateboard decks and the desire to ditch Velcro, these pedalboards are constructed of 12-ply Baltic birch, hold six to 10 pedals and a power supply with ease, and use zip-ties to securely latch down stompboxes. The two-tiered design of this strong and lightweight aluminum pedalboard provides easy access for up to 20 effects devices, and the unique porting, power-supply bracket, and included Velcro allows for a clean, sturdy set up. The ’board comes with a padded gig bag. Constructed of durable molded plastic, this pedalboard includes a built-in AC adapter that can power up to seven pedals. It’s lightweight for easy transport and there is ample room for customized setups. These hand-assembled pedalboards feature 1/2" Eastern plywood construction that’s wrapped with a durable polyweave skin. The Gigman offers dense-foam interior padding and is finished with high-quality catches, hinges, and corner strengtheners. This rigid arched-shape polyethylene pedalboard has a pair of larger surface areas for wah- and volume-type pedals and can accommodate up to 10 stompboxes. A 9V daisy chain power supply and a heavy-duty lightweight carry case are included. This budget-friendly pedalboard with included gig bag boasts room for 10 standard-size effects, is angled for comfortable foot access, has cutouts for power distribution and cable management, and also includes hook-and-loop strips for custom organization. The patented modular design of this ’board allows players to stair-step their effects between two levels or raise the panels on the first tier to accommodate larger pedals. Dual input jacks, two output jacks, and a dual inlet/outlet AC socket are mounted externally. This no-nonsense pedalboard features a rugged textured-vinyl exterior atop a wood frame, heavy-duty metal latches and corners, back- and bottom-side feet, soft interior padding, and a thickly padded carry handle. This handcrafted zebra-wood ’board is constructed using dovetail joinery and is decked out with such options as a recessed IEC power-in socket with on/off switch, a quartet of 1/4" Switchcraft plugs, and a multi-slot “Plus” top. Other pedalboards start at $95.