Pedalboard Design: Who has a "live-in" case, where the board stays in it during your performance?

[aglide]

I wasn't sure if this should go into the Effects forum or the Accessories forum, but I'm curious about this.

I currently have a Creation Music Company Aero board with an unbranded 3rd party hard case that's very robust, but I find it annoying to have to set it down in one location, open it, lift the board out and set it where I'm performing, and then close up the case and find a spot to store it. I would prefer to have a setup where I can lay the case down where my board goes for the performance, and just lift off the top and play.

My Creation Aero board is the 24x12 size. My current pedals fit on it, but are pretty snug. They only fit because I bought the extra tall feet for it, and was able to mount a bunch of stuff on the under side to save room. There are Cioks DC7 and DC8 power supplies, a Broughton BBU, Broughton always on HPF pedals, two Creation patch bays, and a Source Audio Neuro Hub down there.

It seems to me that a "live-in" case might require a lower/flatter board, because the actual board would possibly be "the lid" of the case itself, or the lid would be under the board all the time, adding height. I've noticed a trend of people using risers on flat boards, and stacking pedals, patch bays, power supplies, etc. upwards.

So I picture a riser on the back half of this theoretical board containing the pedals that I won't be directly stomping on along with patch bays and power supplies, and the the pedals I do stomp on being across the front half. Really the only things I step on at this point are the expression pedal and the RJM PBC MIDI/switcher.

Anyone doing this kind of thing? What brands and components are you using, and have you ran into any issues with this approach?

My board is still pretty in flux, with hardly any of the pedals on the top being affixed on. It just doesn't feel like the permanent setup I'll end up with. When I get something I know is more permanent, I also plan to make custom patch cables. Pic for reference:

 

[jTrolt]

I do. I built a pedalboard and mounted to what's considered a "slam lid". This means the storage box pops off the top, leaving the pedalboard, attached to the lid, sitting on the floor. A set of removable dolly wheels/expanding handle ala Penn/Elcom is on the "top" of the lid (not shown).
Only thing I'd do different is use scotchlock vs velcro for firmer pedal attachment. On occasion, especially a long ride on a bumpy sidewalk, a pedal or two gets shifted.
I am a cabinetmaker by trade, so I'm fortunate enough to have the tools/design skills and experience to pull this off. It's pretty complex, but I LOVE how easy it is to get on/off the stage, especially under multi-act shows with minimal stage setup time.

 

[pingvuiini]

I do. I built a pedalboard and mounted to what's considered a "slam lid". This means the storage box pops off the top, leaving the pedalboard, attached to the lid, sitting on the floor. A set of removable dolly wheels/expanding handle ala Penn/Elcom is on the "top" of the lid (not shown).
Only thing I'd do different is use scotchlock vs velcro for firmer pedal attachment. On occasion, especially a long ride on a bumpy sidewalk, a pedal or two gets shifted.
I am a cabinetmaker by trade, so I'm fortunate enough to have the tools/design skills and experience to pull this off. It's pretty complex, but I LOVE how easy it is to get on/off the stage, especially under multi-act shows with minimal stage setup time.
View attachment 7070446View attachment 7070464



View attachment 7070445

Beautiful! Are you thinking of building these for sale?? I'd get one in quilted maple and I don't even own any pedals!

 

[aglide]

I do. I built a pedalboard and mounted to what's considered a "slam lid". This means the storage box pops off the top, leaving the pedalboard, attached to the lid, sitting on the floor. A set of removable dolly wheels/expanding handle ala Penn/Elcom is on the "top" of the lid (not shown).
Only thing I'd do different is use scotchlock vs velcro for firmer pedal attachment. On occasion, especially a long ride on a bumpy sidewalk, a pedal or two gets shifted.
I am a cabinetmaker by trade, so I'm fortunate enough to have the tools/design skills and experience to pull this off. It's pretty complex, but I LOVE how easy it is to get on/off the stage, especially under multi-act shows with minimal stage setup time.
View attachment 7070446View attachment 7070464



View attachment 7070445

That's stunning!

Yeah, I don't like the idea of the pull handle and wheels on some rougher surfaces. That setup looks really solid, but is it pretty heavy?

Your note about multi-band bills is right on. It sucks with a fast load in and changeover when you have to pull a board out of a case and then put it back in.

 

[eeyorebass]

NYC Pedalboards, if they are still around, build boards/cases in the style you are describing. Lots of options for design and coverings.

Pedal Pad, Custom Pedal Boards | Pedal Pad, is another.

 

[jTrolt]

Thanks!
Yes, I've thought about offering these for sale, but that is a huge undertaking, if you consider the setup, marketing, etc. Private sales, like any other bespoke item I build, would likely be all I'd consider at this point in time. (This is not intended to be any sort of a marketing post for me, to be clear)

And yes, fully loaded with a pair of Radial preamps, Chioks power systems, on board direct box, wireless units, it indeed weighs quite a bit. There is a 4"x4"x full length compartment inside that lid that houses cables, extra batteries, ear buds, etc. So, it weighs in similar to a small combo amp. Those wheels, or a dolly, are certainly in order for anything more than a lift into the vehicle or up onto the stage. But I throw that kind of stuff around all day in the shop, so I cope. Again, it is super handy, and the weight is a compromise I've accepted in order to have just instruments and that box for festival gigs or anywhere backline is provided.

The volume of functionality in that setup is crazy. Two bass preamps, one for the electric, one for electric upright, and a third channel for bass side of the Stick. Radically different instruments = volume and a bit of tone controls dedicated for each instrument to help keep FOH signal reasonably well balanced amongst the 3, and serves same purpose for signal to any stage amp. Since I play Stick a bit as well, I've made it large enough to house a guitar preamp pedal and direct box to cover the melody side. This is why you see "GUITAR" label on the terminal plate. Six sockets on that terminal plate output include mono amp and FOH XLR for the bass signal chain, likewise in stereo for the guitar side, when using the melody side of the Stick. Even the power supply section has an external pass-through outlet, so I can run my bass amp and pedalboard off a single extension cord.

Can you make it lighter with thinner material? Man, I wish. The catch is, using the slam lid extrusions and latches requires 9mm (3/8") thick ply. Further, I don't think it would reduce the weight by much more than 10%, considering the weight of the contents. Certainly would help if I were running just a few pedals, and expect if I were to build one for anyone else, this could help immensely in keeping the weight down. It's probably 6-8" more width than necessary for most player's pedal space requirements.

I guess the point of the post was clearly to indicate it can be done, and you're not alone in desiring this kind of functionality. I found none available when I decided to put it together, so I simply dove into the computer and drafted it out.
Perhaps some of the immediate objections/observations (cost, weight, etc.) may be key as to why no one else seems to have developed and brought to market such a system for pedalboards. A roto-mold lid would certainly help, but is outside of my wheelhouse.

But wait!
Someone in China has discovered this thread and is frantically formulating a similar design for a mere $99.99 USD!
LOL!

 

[2saddleslab]

If they don't fit in the Boss BCB case, they ain't getting used.

The board sits on top of the rig w/ the preamp & power amp positioned above the board.

 

[moon-bass]

I used to have one of the Fender Classic series tweed cases - it does exactly what you are looking to do. And they look cool as well!

Classic Series Tweed Pedal Board Cases | Accessories

Tweed Pedalboard Case, Large

www.fender.com

 

[wintremute]

I use the Gator gigbox jr.

Gig-Box Jr. Pedal Board/Guitar Stand Case w/ Power-GW-GIGBOXJRPWR - Gator Cases

Gig-Box Jr. Pedal Board/Guitar Stand Case w/ Power-GW-GIGBOXJRPWR

gatorco.com

 

[erratick]

Custom Pedalboards | Schmidt Array | Germany

Schmidt Array custom pedalboards offer unique solutions for simple to complex guitar effects pedal organisation. Designed for maximum ergonomic functionality and connectivity.

www.schmidtarray.com

Schmidt Array makes some beautiful stuff. But at a cost that is not quite custom prices, but premium.

The cheapest I'm aware of are utilitarian ATA cases that are made in China- like ghostfire or stagg. You can find them at big websites.

Those are the two ends of the spectrum for me, because I'm not playing gigs that are worth getting a custom made board by a builder.

 

[KeepItMoving]

Thanks!
Yes, I've thought about offering these for sale, but that is a huge undertaking, if you consider the setup, marketing, etc. Private sales, like any other bespoke item I build, would likely be all I'd consider at this point in time. (This is not intended to be any sort of a marketing post for me, to be clear)

And yes, fully loaded with a pair of Radial preamps, Chioks power systems, on board direct box, wireless units, it indeed weighs quite a bit. There is a 4"x4"x full length compartment inside that lid that houses cables, extra batteries, ear buds, etc. So, it weighs in similar to a small combo amp. Those wheels, or a dolly, are certainly in order for anything more than a lift into the vehicle or up onto the stage. But I throw that kind of stuff around all day in the shop, so I cope. Again, it is super handy, and the weight is a compromise I've accepted in order to have just instruments and that box for festival gigs or anywhere backline is provided.

The volume of functionality in that setup is crazy. Two bass preamps, one for the electric, one for electric upright, and a third channel for bass side of the Stick. Radically different instruments = volume and a bit of tone controls dedicated for each instrument to help keep FOH signal reasonably well balanced amongst the 3, and serves same purpose for signal to any stage amp. Since I play Stick a bit as well, I've made it large enough to house a guitar preamp pedal and direct box to cover the melody side. This is why you see "GUITAR" label on the terminal plate. Six sockets on that terminal plate output include mono amp and FOH XLR for the bass signal chain, likewise in stereo for the guitar side, when using the melody side of the Stick. Even the power supply section has an external pass-through outlet, so I can run my bass amp and pedalboard off a single extension cord.

Can you make it lighter with thinner material? Man, I wish. The catch is, using the slam lid extrusions and latches requires 9mm (3/8") thick ply. Further, I don't think it would reduce the weight by much more than 10%, considering the weight of the contents. Certainly would help if I were running just a few pedals, and expect if I were to build one for anyone else, this could help immensely in keeping the weight down. It's probably 6-8" more width than necessary for most player's pedal space requirements.

I guess the point of the post was clearly to indicate it can be done, and you're not alone in desiring this kind of functionality. I found none available when I decided to put it together, so I simply dove into the computer and drafted it out.
Perhaps some of the immediate objections/observations (cost, weight, etc.) may be key as to why no one else seems to have developed and brought to market such a system for pedalboards. A roto-mold lid would certainly help, but is outside of my wheelhouse.

But wait!
Someone in China has discovered this thread and is frantically formulating a similar design for a mere $99.99 USD!
LOL!

Thanks for sharing your thought process on this very impressive engineering project! Really enjoyed reading about the situation you had and your approach to addressing it - educational and inspirational.

 

[LowActionHero]

Wow, this picture is a couple years old. Built this into a Harbor Freight case (upside down so the lid is the bottom), cut the hinges and put pins in them.

 

[newfuture]

I had a couple pedalboards I built into the lids of vintage suitcases. They'd open upside down --with some lights in the bottom section, I could open the case, run power and signal cables and have a lighted board and leave everything in place. Can't find a pic right now

 

[Wood and Wire]

If you can get by with a smaller compliment of pedals, you can pick up camera equipment cases (and similarly constructed tool cases) for $5 - $10 in thrift stores.

Just flip them upside down, replace the hinges with latches, and add anti-slip rubber pads / feet to what was the lid, and Velcro any pedals and power supply you like (after removing any foam from the lid, where applicable).

Optionally, drill holes, and fit sockets for 1/4" connection, and external power supply.

 

[aglide]

Custom Pedalboards | Schmidt Array | Germany

Schmidt Array custom pedalboards offer unique solutions for simple to complex guitar effects pedal organisation. Designed for maximum ergonomic functionality and connectivity.

www.schmidtarray.com

Schmidt Array makes some beautiful stuff. But at a cost that is not quite custom prices, but premium.

The cheapest I'm aware of are utilitarian ATA cases that are made in China- like ghostfire or stagg. You can find them at big websites.

Those are the two ends of the spectrum for me, because I'm not playing gigs that are worth getting a custom made board by a builder.

Thanks for the info. I was somewhat aware of the Schmidt Array stuff. I figured it was expensive... but that's even more expensive than I thought. It seems like the "lid" that they make is still more of a boutique shell rather than a proper hard case. But I see that they also sell actual hard cases that remind me of the the homemade setup jTrolt made.

I lean more towards the ATA case style I think. Maybe not those super cheap ones. I think if I had to pick a frontrunner in my mind right now, it would be the Creation Music Company stuff. They have custom flat series boards, as well as custom live-in cases. Or there might be a cheaper 3rd party ATA case out there that the aero board could fit in. If I went this route, I'd have to also get one of their risers and put all the stuff I have on the bottom of my current Aero board under that.

The price does start to go up with this setup, but still markedly cheaper than a similar Schmidt Array setup as a comparison.

 

[Ender_rpm]

Years ago I got the aluminum cases off Rondo music, theyre about 4 1/2" deep, I think I have the 16x24 ish version. I used 1x2's to create a stepped design, for the bass version I can fit about 6 Boss sized pedals and my Khan DI. Built one for my guitar player, just with flat rails inside and velcro, she usually only used 3-4 pedals. I put reflective mailbox initials on them to differentiate at load out/ load in. I did end up havign to put litle feet on the floor side corners to keep it from sliding around, but that wasnt a big deal.

 

[mikeswals]

If you look through ebay, you can find probably a million different pedalboard cases of all sizes with removable tops from all kinds of manufacturers you've never even heard of.

I have a simple CNB case, top comes off and I put behind my cab at the gig. The case is about 10 years old and sees 50-60 gigs a year. No complaints...it's more than paid for itself, so if it breaks, I'll buy another one again.

 

[Wood and Wire]

If they don't fit in the Boss BCB case, they ain't getting used.
View attachment 7070637

The board sits on top of the rig w/ the preamp & power amp positioned above the board.
View attachment 7070653
View attachment 7070650


View attachment 7070652

I don't know if they still make them, but I recently came across a used Behringer clone of those Boss BCB cases - except this one was huge in terms of the number of pedals that it could house - more so than the largest one Boss make.

 

[Jack]

I don't use either of them now since moving to digital modelling, but a while ago (well, 9 years ago...) I built a pedalboard by adding some 'shelves' into a mixer case. The mixer case was tough, the right kind of size, had a pass through for cables, and angled towards the front. Perfect. And then it wasn't big enough any more so I built another. Pic from when I had assembled the second but not painted it.

 

[aglide]

I don't use either of them now since moving to digital modelling, but a while ago (well, 9 years ago...) I built a pedalboard by adding some 'shelves' into a mixer case. The mixer case was tough, the right kind of size, had a pass through for cables, and angled towards the front. Perfect. And then it wasn't big enough any more so I built another. Pic from when I had assembled the second but not painted it.

I like it. Looks like a good combination of ruggedness and ease of use.