Question 1

Why make an expanding pedalboard?

Accepted Answer

It's all about space efficiency. With a two-level pedalboard you can store twice the number of pedals and related gear in the same travel footprint. It will be twice as tall of course, but generally this is an easier shape to move around than one that is twice as wide or deep. In many space-limited situations, such as carry-on luggage, small vehicles, public transportation, or small living spaces, this can be an important difference. In order to access as much of this gear as possible, we've designed a system which stores compactly in one orientation and expands into a second position when it's time to play.

Question 2

How do I wire up an expanding pedalboard?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry, it's no harder than a traditional pedalboard. The main concern is gathering up all the cables going in and out of the switcher and organizing them into one or two thick bundles. Attach the bundle at appropriate points to the base of the lower level and the underside of the deck, and you're good to go. Power cables are generally less fussy. See our X-Series Setup video (under 'Resources') for the whole process.

Question 3

Why store Wah, Volume or Expression pedals in a hard lid?

Accepted Answer

There are three main advantages to moving your wah, volume, or expression pedals off your board.

1. Full Deck profiles are more flexible than Cutaway models when considering possible pedal layouts. As you replace your effect pedals in the future, it will be easier to rearrange your board and play that game of 'pedal tetris' with a Full Deck model.

2. There's simply more space on the board for your effect pedals. And we all like to fit a couple more pedals when we can!

3. Many players simply prefer having that wah/exp/vol pedal on the floor near the board. This allows you to place the pedal exactly where it will be most comfortable to reach on stage, and it may be how you're already used to playing.

Of course, the pedal still needs to travel with your gear, which is why we offer our Stowaway Lid Brackets. By using the space inside the front of the hard lid*, your pedalboard can have the protection of a solid lid while bringing your wah/exp/vol pedal along for the ride. We know of no other pedalboard which allows for this combination of layout flexibility, protection, and compactness/portability.

With all that said, some people may still prefer the simplicity of having the pedal permanently mounted on the board. So whether you choose a Cutaway Deck or a Full Deck, we've got you covered.

*P-Series pedalboards only. In our X-Series pedalboards, this space is taken up by an extra row of pedals on the upper deck. If you'd like to use a wah/exp/vol with a Full Deck X-Series pedalboard for the reasons described above, you could consider storing it below with our Stowaway Straps (if space allows), mount it on the upper deck (works well with smaller pedals like the Dunlop Mini, DOD, etc.), or simply bring it along separately with your other gear.

Question 4

SOFT CASE, LID, TOUR CASE - Which should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Where you play and how you get there is an important factor when choosing your gigging gear. We offer several options to store and travel your pedalboard, and each have their own advantages.

If portability is the goal, then a SOFT CASE is likely the solution. They’re the lightest way to easily move your pedalboard and the shoulder strap frees up your hand for doors or extra gear. The optional thick rubber insert provides an additional level of bump protection above the knobs and foot switches your pedals. Why isn’t the insert included with every SOFT CASE, you ask? That’s because each SOFT CASE can also fit around the matching hard LID.

A hard LID provides the next level of protection for your pedals, whether on the move or simply to ward away curious fingers, furry pets, or dust and spills when the pedalboard is sitting idle.  We also think they look pretty great, especially when ordered with a custom finish. When paired with a P-Series Pedalboard, the LID can be fitted with Stowaway Lid Brackets which allow for additional storage inside the protection of the LID.  Combining the solid protection of a  LID with a SOFT CASE gives the added benefit of scuff protection for your LID, as well as a convenient shoulder strap.

If your pedalboard will be visiting the back of a tour bus or the cargo hold of a plane, then you’ll want a TOUR CASE for the ultimate level of protection. They’re built for a perfect fit around each of our pedalboard models, and the larger sizes feature recessed caster wheels for easy load-in and load-out.

Whatever your storage or travel needs, we’ve got you covered.

Question 5

What if I don't like hook and loop?

Accepted Answer

Normally our pedalboards are supplied with strong hook and loop (loop installed on the pedalboard, hook supplied loose for your pedals). If you'd like to use another type of fastener we're happy to supply the pedalboard bare (with both the hook and loop loose).

Question 6

Proper Use and Care

Accepted Answer

Our pedalboards are built tough, but it is still expected that they will be used with a reasonable level of care. By treating your Pivotal Pedalboard as you would your other professional music equipment, it will last you many years.

The left and right sides of each pedalboard feature a curved bottom to grasp the unit. Always move with two hands when a Lid or Case is not being used. Do not move the pedalboard while the top deck is open. For X-Series pedalboards, always engage the rear locks into the side walls before moving.

Electronic and signalling components are always more sensitive to abuse. Jacks with inserted cables can easily be damaged by kicking, stepping, or rough handling. Unplug all cables and cords before moving your pedalboard.

Clean spills immediately with a damp cloth and then dry. Do not use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals.

Do not expose to extreme temperatures or humidity, or extended direct contact with water.

The tension on the pivoting components of X-Series pedalboards can be tightened or loosened by turning the locking hex nut (only small adjustments are necessary).

If you have any questions about how to best use or care for you pedalboard, feel free to contact us.

FAQ

Why make an expanding pedalboard?

How do I wire up an expanding pedalboard?

Why store Wah, Volume or Expression pedals in a hard lid?

SOFT CASE, LID, TOUR CASE - Which should I choose?

What if I don't like hook and loop?

Proper Use and Care

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