Flat vs Angled Pedalboard Styles
Pedalboards usually fall into two camps: flat or angled. Neither is better; it comes down to how you play, how many pedals you run, and how often you’re reaching for switches mid-song.
Here’s how they compare:
- Flat Pedalboards: Simple, low-profile, and easy to pack. Flat boards work well for smaller setups and players who prefer everything on one level. They’re also great if you like a minimal footprint and quick setup.
- Angled Pedalboards: Designed with a raised back row, angled boards make it easier to hit pedals without catching the wrong switch. The extra space underneath is handy for mounting power supplies and routing cables out of sight.
If you run a few pedals, flat keeps things straightforward. Bigger rigs usually benefit from an angled layout that adds comfort and organization.
Pedalboards Worth Considering
Here are some pedalboard options at American Musical Supply that cover a range of styles, sizes, and workflows. Each brings something a little different to the table, depending on how you like your rig to live.
SKB PS-8 Powered Pedalboard With Gig Bag
A great all-in-one solution for players who want power built in. The SKB PS-8 comes with an onboard power supply and a gig bag, so setup and teardown are smooth, and cables stay tucked away.
RockBoard Quad 4.1 Pedalboard With Gig Bag
The RockBoard Quad 4.1 is a well-organized board for players who want room to grow. Its layered layout helps keep your pedals visible and accessible, and the included bag makes transport easy.
Gator GTour Pedalboard LGW Large With Wheels
If you play bigger rigs or you’re constantly loading in, the Gator GTour’s size and wheel-equipped case make life easier. Plenty of surface area and rugged construction make it easier to carry more effects.
BOSS BCB-1000 Pedal Board
The BOSS BCB-1000 is a solid choice for players who want straightforward utility and classic reliability. It’s sized to hold a typical stompbox lineup without unnecessary extras.
Voodoo Lab Dingbat Small EX With Pedal Power
Voodoo's Dingbat Small EX is a premium small pedalboard with excellent build quality and room for a compact rig. A Voodoo Lab power solution on board keeps juice flowing with tidy routing and minimal setup.
Whether your priority is power integration, portability, or space for expansion, there’s a pedalboard here that fits the way you play.Â
Incorporating a Multi-FX Unit Into Your Pedalboard
Thinking about adding a multi-FX unit to your pedalboard, but not sure how it fits into the mix? This video walks through how to slot one into an existing setup without blowing up your signal chain. It’s a practical watch if you’re looking to save space, add flexibility, or simplify your rig before the next gig. Grab a few patch cables and see how it all comes together.
Pairing a Pedalboard with the Right Power Supply
If your pedalboard doesn’t include built-in power, choosing the right power supply keeps everything running clean and predictable. Here’s what to look for:
- Output count and type that matches how many pedals you’re running, including higher-current outputs for digital effects
- Isolated outputs to help reduce noise when mixing analog and digital pedals
- Mounting compatibility so the power supply fits underneath or on the board without blocking pedals
- Voltage options for pedals that need something other than standard 9V
Pedal cables matter just as much as power. Short, well-made patch cables keep your signal path tight and make routing easier, especially on smaller boards.Â
Frequently Asked Questions About Guitar Pedalboards
What size pedalboard should I buy?
Choose based on how many pedals you plan to use, plus some extra space for growth. Many players size up to avoid rebuilding later.
Are powered pedalboards worth it?
They can be, especially if you want fewer components and a faster setup.
Do pedalboards affect tone?
Not directly. They help keep cables organized and pedals stable, thereby reducing unwanted noise.Â
Grab Your Perfect Pedalboard Today at AMS
A solid guitar pedalboard makes your effects easier to use and a lot more fun to play. When pedals stay put, cables stay tidy, and power is handled cleanly, your rig feels ready every time you step on it. Browse our full selection of pedalboards and find the size, layout, and features that fit your rig. American Musical Supply offers flexible payment plans that let you spread out the cost of boards, power supplies, and cables, so you can build the setup you want without waiting.
Related Articles