D'Addario XPND 1 Pedalboard Review: Expandable, Portable, and Practical?

This review dives into the D'Addario XPND 1 pedalboard, a versatile and expandable solution for musicians of all levels. We unpack the pedalboard's ease of assembly, highlighting its innovative design and user-friendly features. From initial setup to the final organization of your effects, we explore the entire experience, including the functionality of the included Backline Pedalboard Transporter. This hard-shell case is specifically designed to protect your XPND 1, regardless of its expanded size, offering ample storage for cables and power supplies.This in-depth analysis covers the XPND 1's key selling point: its adjustability. We examine how this compact yet expansive pedalboard adapts to various needs and preferences, from small practice sessions to large-scale gigs. The review also considers the value proposition, weighing the price against the quality of materials, design features, and overall convenience. Ultimately, we assess whether the D'Addario XPND 1 delivers on its promise of expandability, portability, and practicality for the modern musician.

Read more: 5 Must-Have Electric Guitar Cases

Unboxing and Assembly

The D'Addario XPND 1 arrived in a neatly packaged box. Inside, I found the pedalboard components, assembly instructions, screws, and an Allen wrench – everything needed for quick and easy setup. No additional tools were required, a definite plus for convenience.

Unboxing the D'Addario XPND 1 pedalboard
Unboxing the D'Addario XPND 1 pedalboard

The assembly process was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions were clear, and the pre-velcroed rails made aligning and attaching the expandable sections a breeze. Within minutes, the pedalboard was fully assembled and ready for customization.

Quick and easy assembly process
Quick and easy assembly process

Expandability and Pedal Placement

The XPND 1's unique selling point is its expandability. It starts at a compact 14 inches and extends to a generous 24 inches, nearly doubling in size. This adjustability is fantastic for adapting to different gig setups or personal preferences.

Pedal placement on the expanded board
Pedal placement on the expanded board

I populated the board with my pedals, taking advantage of the expanded length. The pre-velcroed rails made pedal placement a simple and organized affair. The included cable management system proved helpful in keeping everything neat and tangle-free.

Backline Pedalboard Transporter Case

The accompanying Backline Pedalboard Transporter is a robust hard-shell case designed to perfectly fit the XPND 1 at any length. The interior dividers create customizable compartments for cables, power supplies, and other accessories.

The D'Addario XPND 1 pedalboard and the Backline Transporter case
The D'Addario XPND 1 pedalboard and the Backline Transporter case

The case's features include a comfortable crossbody strap and heavy-duty velcro dividers for secure organization. It's clearly built to withstand the rigors of touring, protecting your valuable gear from bumps and scratches.

Packing the pedalboard and accessories into the case
Packing the pedalboard and accessories into the case

Final Verdict

The D'Addario XPND 1 Pedalboard and its matching Transporter case offer a compelling combination of expandability, portability, and robust protection. The adjustable size is a huge advantage, catering to various pedalboard needs. The well-designed case keeps everything secure and organized, making transporting your setup a breeze.

The pre-velcroed rails, included cable management system, and straightforward assembly make setup a quick and enjoyable experience. While the price point is slightly higher than some alternatives, the quality of construction, innovative features, and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for serious musicians.