The Steel Guitar Forum

I'm not sure why, but my Matchbox 7A is eating batteries even if it gets only occasional use. The input is unplugged when not in use. Example: I put new 9v batteries in in late May. I didn't play for half of July. Today the unit is fuzzing.... batteries were down to less than 1 volt.

Does anyone have a suggestion?

jim

I have a SteelDriver III and I unplug both wires when not in use. The batteries last a long time for me.

Jim, it's possible that the contacts are not going open and the pedal is still on even unplugged. I don't like the unplug method and will eventually put a on/off switch on the pedal. Open the pedal and watch the contacts as you plug and unplug it on the output jack.

Jim Hollingsworth wrote:
Does anyone have a suggestion?

Learn to do without it, as thousands of players have.

30-40 years ago, most every player used one. Now, with powered volume pedals and the renewed interest in the advantages of pot-pedals, I seldom see players using a Matchbox.

The model 7A should have a on/off switch on it.
That disconnects the battery so there should be no drain on the battery.
Erv

It is also possible that one or more of its electrolytic capacitors has become leaky.

I have an old guitar tuner that began consuming batteries while sitting unused in its case. I measured the current draw in its 'off' state, and it did have some small current draw. I replaced its four electrolytic capacitors and now it doesn't draw any current while it's off.

Good luck fixing the problem.

Eric

I’d get a Freeloader instead. It is very efficient on power. And I think you can buy them from Brad now with a power off switch on them.

I use a Matchbox if for no other reason than I have a volume and tone control right at my finger tips.
Erv

Ask Kevin about it but w my Steeldriver I need to unplug the output- not the input.