Comprehensive review of the T-Rex Fuel Tank Chameleon pedal power supply

Description

Powerful and Versatile Design for Pedalboards

Testing out the T-Rex Engineering Fuel Tank Chameleon Pedal Power Supply was a fascinating experience, primarily because of its versatile design and ability to cater to a wide range of pedal needs. This compact yet sturdy unit is made of durable metal, and its compact dimensions—6.3 x 3.2 x 1.5 inches—make it a convenient addition to any pedalboard setup. Despite its size, the weight of 1.74 pounds provides enough heft to keep it stable during use.

One of the most impressive aspects is the universal fit type, which ensures that it integrates seamlessly with various pedalboards. I found the built-in voltage selector for worldwide use to be a lifesaver when switching between setups in different locations. Whether you’re using it at home, in a studio, or on the road, the switchable voltage between 115V and 230V makes it incredibly adaptable.

Key Benefits

• Five isolated outputs, each capable of delivering 300mA, allow for cleaner sound with no unwanted noise interference.
• The four separate voltage options (9V DC, 12V DC, 12V AC, and 18V DC) ensure compatibility with diverse pedals.
• Its noise-cancelling galvanic isolated outputs eliminate annoying hums and buzzes, which is a common issue with cheaper power supplies.
• The compact and durable metal construction feels built to last, even with frequent transport.

Performance and Power Delivery

The performance of this power supply stands out thanks to its ability to provide a stable and consistent power flow. I tested it with a mix of analog and digital pedals, and the results were stellar. The five isolated outputs mean that each pedal gets its own clean power source, significantly reducing the risk of interference or noise. I was running everything from overdrive to modulation effects, and there was no noticeable degradation in sound quality.

Additionally, the total capacity of 1500mA ensures that even power-hungry pedals are well-supported. I especially appreciated the noise-cancelling feature of the galvanic isolation, as it kept my setup dead silent in idle mode. This is a game-changer for anyone recording or performing live, where unwanted noise can be a major distraction.

Upsides

• Flexible voltage options make it compatible with a range of pedals.
• Sturdy construction ensures it can handle the wear and tear of gigging.
• Noise-free operation makes it ideal for studio work.
• Compact size simplifies pedalboard management.

Areas for Improvement

While the Fuel Tank Chameleon excels in many areas, there are a few points worth noting:

• The 300mA limit per output might not be sufficient for some high-current digital pedals.
• I found the lack of a USB output for charging smartphones or other devices to be a minor inconvenience.
• The included power cables felt a bit short for larger pedalboards, which could be a problem if you need more flexibility.

Competing Products

Comparing this power supply to others on the market, such as the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus or the MXR DC Brick, reveals some interesting distinctions. The Fuel Tank Chameleon offers a broader range of voltage options compared to the Voodoo Lab, which is limited to 9V and 12V outputs. However, the Voodoo Lab may appeal to those needing more mA per output for power-hungry digital effects.

On the other hand, the MXR DC Brick provides a simpler and more affordable solution but lacks the isolated outputs that the Fuel Tank Chameleon offers. This isolation is a huge advantage for reducing noise and maintaining the integrity of your signal chain. If you’re someone who values versatility and clean power delivery, the Fuel Tank Chameleon edges out both competitors in these aspects.

Value for Money

When assessing the price-to-quality ratio, the Fuel Tank Chameleon strikes a balance between cost and functionality. It’s not the cheapest power supply out there, but the features it offers, such as multiple voltage options and noise-cancelling outputs, justify the investment. For someone with a diverse pedal setup, this product can save you from having to purchase multiple power supplies or deal with unreliable daisy chains. It’s a smart choice for musicians who prioritize performance and reliability without overspending.

If I were to recommend this to a specific audience, I’d say it’s perfect for gigging musicians and studio players who need a reliable, noise-free power solution for their pedalboards. While it may not be ideal for beginners with a small setup, it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to upgrade their rig.

Additional information