The GUP Tech Splitter Buffer Box - 2 Out Buffered is a utility pedal that takes one input signal and feeds two outputs, with a JFET buffer on both outputs. GUP Tech describes it simply as "Simple 1 in, two outputs with JFET buffer on both outputs."1 It sits in the wider family of buffer pedals, but adds the splitting function that a straight buffer like the TC Electronic Bonafide Buffer or JHS Pedals Little Black Buffer does not have.
What it does for a player
A buffered splitter solves two jobs at once. The buffers keep the signal strong through long cable runs and pedalboards, and the two outputs let one guitar feed two destinations. The same idea appears in other makers' designs: on a technical analysis of a mono dual buffer/splitter, Vertex Effects explains that "The Splitter Out provides a buffered feed for a second MONO amplifier," which is the classic use, driving a second amp from one guitar.2 Comparable buffered splitters on the site include the EarthQuaker Devices Buffer/Splitter, the JHS Pedals Buffered Splitter and the One Control BJF Buffer Split.
The headroom figure tells you how hot a signal the buffers can pass cleanly: 9.3dBu, given by GUP Tech as 2.26Vrms or 6Vpp at 1kHz.1
Power and practical details
The pedal runs on 9V DC center negative at 3mA. GUP Tech's page does not list battery operation, so a power supply is the way to run it. At 3mA it is a very light load on any shared supply.1
Versions and availability
GUP Tech notes that "This new Splitter is replacing our old 'single output' buffer," so the two-output version is the current form of the company's buffer line.1 The maker's page shows a price of £44.00 GBP.1
Questions
Does the GUP Tech splitter buffer box need a battery or a power supply?
It runs on a 9V DC center negative power supply. The maker's product page lists the voltage as 9Vdc Center Negative and does not mention battery operation, so plan on using a standard pedal power supply or a spot on your pedalboard's power brick.
How much current does the GUP Tech splitter draw?
GUP Tech lists the power consumption at 3mA, which is a very light load. It will sit comfortably on any output of a typical pedalboard power supply without crowding higher-draw pedals.
What size enclosure does the GUP Tech splitter use?
The pedal is built in a small 1590A size enclosure, one of the smallest standard Hammond-style boxes used for compact pedals, which keeps its footprint on a pedalboard minimal.
Where is the GUP Tech splitter buffer made?
GUP Tech states that all of its pedals are made by the company in Saguenay, Québec, Canada, and this splitter buffer box is no exception.
What is the headroom of the GUP Tech splitter buffer?
GUP Tech lists headroom of 9.3dBu, which it gives as 2.26Vrms or 6Vpp at 1kHz. That is the signal level the buffer can pass before clipping, which matters if you run hot pickups or a loud clean boost ahead of it.
Sources (2)
- Splitter Buffer Box, GUP Tech (guptech.ca)
- DIY Mono Dual Buffer / Splitter Pedalboard Interface, www.vertexeffects.com, 2020-11-09
