Complete guide: Critical Tattoo CX1 Generation 2 Power Supply
The Critical CX1 Generation 2 power supply is a micro-format power unit for tattoo machines, designed for artists who work a lot on the go — at conventions, guest spots, and while traveling. It precisely controls the voltage sent to the machine, with fine adjustment in 0.1 V steps and two presets that you can save for your preferred configurations. Manufactured in the USA by Critical, it retains professional features such as Jump Start, pedal modes, and non-volatile memory that retains settings even after unplugging from the mains, without compromising on its very compact size.
How to use
- Place the power supply on a stable, clean surface, outside the wet work area. You can use the included G2 magnetic mount to conveniently secure it within reach.
- Connect the included power cord and adapter to the mains. The power supply has a universal input of 110–240 V, so it works on the Romanian grid; since the plug in the set is a US type, use the included adapter (or an EU plug adapter) to connect to the local outlet.
- Connect the tattoo machine to the power supply via the RCA cable into the 1/4" mono jack input. If using a foot pedal, connect it into the second jack input.
- Turn on the power supply via the button. If not using a pedal, activate the pedal override button to run in continuous mode.
- Adjust the voltage using the preset buttons, in fine 0.1 V steps, starting from a low value and gradually increasing until the desired machine behavior is achieved. Save your two favorite values into the two presets.
- If the rotary machine starts hard, activate Jump Start mode for instant startup.
- Finally, turn off the power supply via the button — thanks to non-volatile memory, the presets remain saved even after unplugging from the mains.
Tips from us
- Use the two presets for your usual configurations (e.g., one for liner, one for shader) so you can switch instantly without readjusting every time.
- Always start from a low voltage and increase gradually — it makes it easier to find the optimal setting and is gentler on the machine.
- For rotary machines that resist starting, remember the Jump Start function; it eliminates hesitant startups.
- As a micro unit, it's ideal for your travel kit and fits easily into a bag alongside machines. The G2 magnetic mount keeps it in place on the work table.
- Periodically check the RCA cable and jack inputs: a loose contact causes voltage fluctuations that are immediately noticeable during work.
Warning: The power supply is not a consumable and must never be submerged in liquid. In the work area, protect it with a disposable barrier (wrap/sleeve for the clip cord and machine), and between clients wipe the casing and buttons with a surface disinfectant solution — a surface touched with gloves can transfer contamination. Keep the jack inputs clean and dry and do not spray disinfectant directly into them. Although it has universal 110–240 V input and built-in short circuit protection, connect it to a grounded outlet and do not use it with damaged cables.
Frequently asked questions
Does it work with any tattoo machine?▾
Yes, the CX1 Generation 2 powers both coil and rotary machines via a standard RCA connection into the 1/4" mono jack input. The fine adjustment in 0.1 V steps and the two presets allow you to cover different settings for multiple machines. You only need an RCA cable to the machine and, optionally, a foot pedal.
How do I properly clean and maintain it?▾
Use a protective barrier (wrap/sleeve) over the power supply, cable, and machine during work, and between clients wipe the casing and buttons with a surface disinfectant solution. Do not submerge it in liquid and do not spray directly onto the inputs. Keep the jacks clean and dry, and periodically check the condition of the cables.
What does it mean that it has non-volatile memory and two presets?▾
You can save two favorite voltage values and switch instantly between them. The non-volatile memory retains these presets even after unplugging the power supply from the mains, so upon restart you find your settings without reconfiguring each time — you save time in every session.
Is it suitable for working at conventions and guest spots?▾
Yes, it is a micro-format power supply, compact and easy to carry, designed precisely for travel, conventions, and guest spots. The G2 mount with included magnet conveniently secures it on the work table, and all professional functions remain present despite the small size.
Does it work with Romanian outlets?▾
Yes. The power supply has a universal input of 110–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, so it is compatible with the 230 V grid in Romania. The set includes a power cord with a US plug and an adapter; use the adapter from the set (or an EU plug adapter) to connect to the local outlet.
Do I absolutely need a foot pedal? What if my rotary machine starts hard?▾
No, the foot pedal is optional: the pedal override button allows you to run in continuous mode without a pedal. If you use a pedal, you have two modes — maintained and momentary. For rotary machines that start hard, activate Jump Start mode, which provides instant startup.
Product description
Critical Tattoo CX1 Generation 2 Micro Power Supply Critical Tattoo strives to provide tattoo artists with American-made products that are innovative, elegant, and above-all satisfactory. This Critical X1 Generation 2 Micro Power Supply is favored by artists for being easy-to-operate. Easily turn this power supply on and off and increase or decrease the voltage with user-friendly buttons. It operates at a 6amp peak inrush current and a 3amp true RMS continuous current. The Critical X1 G2 has 1/4” mono jack inputs for standard RCA clipcords and foot pedals if desired (although a foot pedal is not required to operate, as this power supply has a pedal override mode). It has two foot pedal modes — maintained and momentary with an easy one-button toggle — as well as a jumpstart mode for hard starting tattoo machines. This power supply comes with a power cord, adapter, a wingnut screw, and a G2 magnet mount. This magnet mount allows for a configurable set-up. Specifications: Color: Black Precision Regulated Set Point Voltage: 0–18vdc User-friendly on/off button, dual voltage preset buttons, and voltage readout screen Non-volatile memory ensures voltage presets are maintained even when power is removed Voltage presets: 2 0.1 volt adjustment resolution Two foot pedal modes — maintained or momentary Jumpstart mode enabled for hard starting machines Pedal override button (no need for a foot pedal if you run continuous mode) Universal input (110-240VAC 50/60Hz) Peak Current: 6 amp Continuous Current: 4 amp (true RMS continuous current) 1/4” mono jack inputs for standard clip cord and foot pedal (foot pedal not required to run) Built-in short circuit protection Easily bagged with typical machine or bottle baggies Power cord, adapter, G2 magnet mount, and 1 10/32” wing nut screw included Manufactured in the USAWarranty: 1 year
The Critical CX1 Generation 2 is a micro power supply delivering top professional performance in an extremely compact format, ideal for artists needing maximum portability without power compromises. With adjustable voltage from 0 to 17V and 0.1V resolution, the CX1 G2 provides the precision needed for fine settings, essential when working with high-performance rotary machines. The 6A peak and 3A continuous RMS current ensures constant power for any coil or rotary tattoo machine. Two voltage presets allow quick switching between favorite settings, and non-volatile memory retains presets even when the supply is disconnected from power. The Jump Start function ensures instant rotary machine startup, and pedal override mode eliminates the pedal need. Maintained and momentary pedal modes offer working style flexibility. Built-in short circuit protection safeguards equipment. Universal 110-240VAC 50/60Hz input allows global use. The set includes G2 magnet mount, 10/32 wing nut screw, US power cord, and adapter. The Critical CX1 G2 is the perfect micro solution for mobile artists, conventions, and guest spots where space and portability are essential, offering a 2-year warranty from the American manufacturer. The CX1 G2 represents Critical's philosophy of delivering maximum performance in the most compact format possible, demonstrating that size doesn't dictate capabilities. It is the perfect supply for the modern nomadic artist working at conventions, guest spots, and events without wanting to transport bulky, heavy equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions What makes the CX1 G2 different from the Atom X? The CX1 G2 is the micro variant, even more compact than the Atom X, with non-volatile memory retaining presets even when the supply is disconnected. Both have 0-17V voltage with 0.1V precision and 2 presets. The CX1 G2 is designed for maximum portability, ideal for mobile work and conventions. What does non-volatile memory mean? Non-volatile memory means the voltage presets saved on the CX1 G2 are retained even when the supply is disconnected from power. Upon restart, the supply remembers previous settings, eliminating the need to reconfigure voltages at each use. This feature saves precious time. What voltage does the CX1 G2 provide? The Critical CX1 G2 provides adjustable voltage from 0 to 17V with 0.1V resolution, covering all tattoo machine types. Two presets allow saving favorite settings and instant switching between them, ideal for artists with multiple machines. Is the CX1 G2 portable? Yes, the CX1 G2 is one of the most portable professional supplies in the world, with a micro format that easily fits in a travel kit. The reduced weight and minimal dimensions make it ideal for conventions, guest spots, and mobile work without sacrificing any functionality. What current does the CX1 G2 provide? The CX1 G2 provides 6A peak inrush current and 3A continuous RMS, identical to the Atom X and XRR models. This power is more than sufficient for any professional tattoo machine, providing stable, consistent performance across the entire voltage range. What does the CX1 G2 set include? The Critical CX1 G2 set includes the CX1 Generation 2 power supply, G2 magnet mount, 10/32 wing nut screw, US power cord, and power adapter. All that's additionally needed are RCA cables to machines and optionally a pedal. Does the CX1 G2 have short circuit protection? Yes, the Critical CX1 G2 includes built-in short circuit protection, protecting both the supply and the connected tattoo machine. This safety feature is standard on all new-generation Critical supplies. What input does the CX1 G2 accept? The CX1 G2 accepts universal 110-240VAC 50/60Hz input, allowing use in any country without a voltage adapter. This flexibility is essential for artists attending international conventions or working in different countries. What warranty does the CX1 G2 have? The Critical CX1 G2 comes with a full 2-year warranty from the American manufacturer Critical Tattoo, covering manufacturing defects and functional components. This generous warranty reflects the build quality and product reliability. Is the CX1 G2 suitable for studio use? Yes, although the CX1 G2 excels in portability, its professional performance makes it perfectly suitable for permanent studio use as well. The 6A peak current, 0-17V voltage with 0.1V precision, and all advanced features qualify it for any professional working environment.
