What does the MXR MC406 CAE Buffer do for my guitar tone?

The MC406 CAE Buffer is designed to prevent signal degradation that can occur with long cable runs or large pedalboards. It converts your guitar's high-impedance signal to a low-impedance signal, preserving your tone's clarity, brightness, and dynamics. This ensures your sound reaches your amplifier just as strong and vibrant as it leaves your guitar, maintaining your original sonic character.

How should I connect the MC406 CAE Buffer on my pedalboard?

You typically place the MC406 CAE Buffer early in your signal chain, often right after your guitar or before any pedals that might be sensitive to impedance changes. Connect your guitar to the input, then use the buffered output to feed the rest of your pedals. The unbuffered output is useful for splitting your signal or feeding specific pedals that prefer a direct, unbuffered signal.

What is the purpose of the unbuffered output on the MC406 CAE Buffer?

The unbuffered output provides a direct, high-impedance signal from your guitar, bypassing the buffer circuit. This is particularly useful for certain vintage-style fuzz or wah pedals that are designed to interact directly with your guitar's pickups. By using the unbuffered output for these specific pedals, you can ensure they perform as intended while still buffering the rest of your signal chain.

Does the MC406 CAE Buffer require batteries or a power supply?

The MXR MC406 CAE Buffer operates exclusively with a standard 9V DC power supply. It does not run on batteries. You'll need to purchase a compatible 9V DC power supply separately to power the pedal. This ensures consistent performance and integrates easily into most pedalboard power setups.

Subtotal	...
Sales Tax	...
Shipping	...
Grand Total	...

MXR MC406 CAE Buffer

Name: MC406 CAE Buffer
Brand: MXR
Rating: 5 (6 reviews)

Buffer Circuit with 6dB of Gain, Buffered and Unbuffered Outputs, and 9VDC Power Output

Write your review Item ID: MC406Buffer

We Can Get It Fast!

While this isn't an item we normally stock, we can still get it to you as fast as possible due to our great relationship with MXR. Go ahead and place your order and we'll follow up shortly to let you know when to expect it. Estimated May 11, 2026

Ask An Expert Our Expertly trained Sales Engineers are ready to help!

(800) 222-4700 Email

What is a Sales Engineer?

Have one to sell?
Check out Sweetwater's Gear Exchange!
Learn More

MXR MC406 CAE Buffer

We Can Get It Fast!

Warranty Info

Sweetwater's FREE 2-Year Total Confidence Coverage Warranty

Extra peace of mind at no extra cost.

Save money with FREE parts and labor
Get back to making music with the industry's fastest turnaround time
Fix it the first time with our award-winning, factory-certified Service Department

Learn More about Total Confidence Coverage