Pedal Brainz are the creation of Damian Kastbauer with the help of several collaborators.
Pedal Brainz FAQ
How does the Left Brain work?
A photoresistor inside uses patterns of light generated by an Arduino microcontroller that are translated to expression control. Think of it as using light to move the knobs of an effect.
Do Pedal Brainz work with CV?
Pedal Brainz come in either EXP (Expression) or CV (Control Voltage) variations. EXP voltage is received by an effect and then passively modified by the Brain. CV Brainz output a voltage directly to an effect and should be used with a "floating ring" configuration. Always check with the manufacturers recommendation when using CV (Control Voltage) directly.
Should I buy the Expression or CV version of Pedal Brainz?
Expression is "passive" and doesn't require power (although the Left Brain requires power for the light patterns) while the EXP series of Brainz include the Range switch, to increase compatibility across the different (inconsistent) resistance values used across different effects.
Meanwhile, CV bypasses an effects internal reference voltage and directly sends (a control) voltage to the effect for expression control. The CV series has a couple of cool tricks up it's sleeve: dual outputs (control 2+ pedals from one Brain), Invert (instead of voltage going from low to high, it can be inverted to output high to low.with expression, you can usually only lower the "ceiling" or maximum amount of expression.when inverted, you can effectively change the "floor" or minimum value)
What kind of cable do I need for Expression?
A 1/4" TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) to 1/4" TRS to interface with the EXP series of Pedal Brainz
What kind of cable do I need for Control Voltage?
A 1/4" TRS (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) "floating ring" (where the ring is disconnected) to 1/8" TS (Tip, Sleeve) to interface with the CV series of Pedal Brainz
A 9v DC tip-negative sleeve positive supply isolated from other effects. 85ma is optimal
What power supply works best?
A 9v DC tip-negative sleeve positive supply isolated from other effects. 85ma is optimal
Can I write my own Modez?
Yes, you can access the full operating code and update instructions for the Left Brain at:
Pedal Brainz GitHub
Warranty/ Return Policy/ Disclaimer
There are no refunds after successful purchase. It's my hope that you'll enjoy your Pedal Brainz for years to come. Drop a line if something goes sideways and we'll work it out together. (contact info below)
Disclaimer: Pedal Brainz is not responsible for problems that arise from operating outside of an effect pedals specifications. Damage to an effect pedal as a result of over/ under voltage is classified as operator error. Always ensure that you are using Pedal Brainz within the specifications of your effect pedal.
Stock
This is a one-person small batch operation. We're thankful for the folks at MAS Distro for helping to spread Pedal Brainz around the world. Please sign up for the mailing list and follow on IG to receive news and updates about upcoming batches.
Current and past retailers include:
Yes pedals are shipped via USPS Priority Mail International. Please note that all international customers are responsible for all applicable import duties. These are out of our control. Shipping prices are reflected in the
There are no refunds after successful purchase. It's my intention that you enjoy your Pedal Brainz for years to come. Drop a line if something goes sideways and we'll work it out together. (contact info below)