Softshell pedalboards have become increasingly popular among guitarists and musicians in recent years. Unlike traditional hardshell pedalboards, softshell pedalboards offer several advantages, including portability, flexibility, and durability.
What are Softshell Pedalboards?
Softshell pedalboards, also known as gig bags or carry bags, are a type of pedalboard that uses a soft fabric material for its exterior. The interior of the pedalboard is typically made of foam or a padded material that cushions and protects the pedals during transport.
Softshell pedalboards come in various sizes and shapes and can hold anywhere from a few to several pedals. They are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport to gigs, rehearsals, or anywhere else you need to take your gear.
Benefits of Softshell Pedalboards
- Portability
One of the most significant advantages of softshell pedalboards is their portability. Unlike hardshell pedalboards, which can be bulky and heavy, softshell pedalboards are lightweight and easy to carry. They often come with shoulder straps or handles, making them easy to transport to gigs, rehearsals, or anywhere else you need to go.
2. Flexibility
Another advantage of softshell pedalboards is their flexibility. They can be folded, rolled up, or shaped to fit into tight spaces or odd-shaped bags, making them an ideal choice for musicians who travel frequently or have limited storage space.
3. Durability
Softshell pedalboards are made with durable materials, including thick, high-quality fabrics and padded interiors that protect pedals from damage during transport. They also feature reinforced stitching and zippers that are built to last, ensuring that your gear stays safe and secure.
4. Customization
Softshell pedalboards can be customized to fit your specific needs. They come in various sizes and shapes, and you can add or remove pedals and accessories as needed. You can also choose from different colors, patterns, and designs to create a unique look that reflects your personal style.
Why are Softshell Pedalboards Becoming Popular?
- Affordable
Softshell pedalboards are typically less expensive than hardshell pedalboards. They offer a cost-effective solution for musicians who need a reliable and portable pedalboard without breaking the bank.
- Lightweight
Softshell pedalboards are lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport. This is particularly beneficial for musicians who need to travel frequently or play gigs in different locations.
- Versatility
Softshell pedalboards are versatile and can be customized to fit different pedal configurations and sizes. This means that musicians can use the same pedalboard for different setups or adjust it to fit new pedals as they add them to their collection.
- Easy to Store
Softshell pedalboards are easy to store, as they can be folded, rolled up, or flattened to fit into tight spaces. This makes them an ideal choice for musicians who have limited storage space or who need to transport their gear in smaller vehicles.
With their customizable features and various sizes and shapes, softshell pedalboards can meet the needs of any musician, whether they are a professional or amateur. As they continue to gain popularity in the music industry, softshell pedalboards are a must-have for any guitarist or musician looking for a reliable and portable gear solution.
Softshell pedalboards have several features that make them an ideal choice for musicians of all levels. They are a lightweight and portable solution for gigging musicians who need to carry their gear to different locations. They are also ideal for home recording and practice setups, as they take up less space and can be easily stored when not in use.
One of the key benefits of softshell pedalboards is their flexibility. Unlike hardshell pedalboards, which are designed to hold a fixed number of pedals in a specific configuration, softshell pedalboards can be customized to fit any pedal setup. This means that musicians can add or remove pedals as needed and adjust the configuration of their board to suit their changing needs.
Softshell pedalboards are also available in a range of sizes and shapes, from small, compact boards that hold a few pedals to larger boards that can accommodate a full range of effects. This means that musicians can choose the size and shape of their board based on their specific needs, whether they are looking for a portable solution or a more comprehensive board for a larger pedal collection.
Another advantage of softshell pedalboards is their affordability. While hardshell pedalboards can be quite expensive, especially for high-end models, softshell pedalboards are generally more affordable and offer a cost-effective solution for musicians on a budget. This makes them an ideal choice for beginners or musicians who are just starting to build their pedal collection.
Softshell pedalboards offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for musicians of all levels. They are lightweight, portable, customizable, and affordable, making them an ideal choice for gigging musicians, home recording setups, and practice sessions. As the popularity of softshell pedalboards continues to grow, we can expect to see more innovative designs and features that further enhance their versatility and convenience.