#1
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Pickup/preamp system for archtops?
I wonder if someone could recommend a pickup/preamp system for an archtop (piezo or microphone; not magnetic pickup). I'd much rather have the preamp in the guitar like you would on a flattop but obviously it's not trivial to get in there. Mine just has normal f-holes, a little wider than you'd find on a 335, etc. Or do I have to use an external stomp box for the preamp?
Many thanks for any advice. |
#2
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Try one of these:
http://www.fishman.com/products/view...uitar-pickup-1 Since most preamps use the so-called "barndoor" configuration, which involves cutting a hole in the side of the guitar (not my favorite method when it comes to a hand-carved instrument), it shouldn't be too much more difficult than a standard round-hole installation. If you decide to go this route, here's something that should give you the best of both worlds: http://www.fishman.com/products/view/prefix-pro-blend-1 Another possibility - and one which I would prefer as no holes need be cut - would involve making a custom pickguard and installing a preamp such as this on the underside: http://www.fishman.com/products/view...matrix-blend-1 If you're creative you should be able to design a '40s Epiphone-style pickguard, with appropriately-placed curves to accommodate the shape of the preamp and allow easy access. FWIW the recently-discontinued Gretsch Jimmie Vaughan Synchromatic used a similar setup; these were well-made, all-solid-wood guitars with a definite '40s visual/tonal vibe, and if you've got the bucks it might just be worth checking one of these out rather than messing with your current instrument: http://elderly.com/vintage/items/45U-1576.htm Hope this helps... |
#3
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The K&K Definity system is another to try - especially if you happen to like your stock bridge...
http://elderly.com/new_instruments/n...tem--KKDS1.htm http://kksound.com/products/definity.php |
#4
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K&K systems are superb paired with a Baggs Para Acoustic DI preamp - but honestly an old D'Armond "guitar Mike" monkey-stick single-coil (far less $$$ & almost identical in sound to the Rhythm Chief) either through the Baggs or straight into a tube amp sounds very natural - and looks far cooler! ;-)
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#5
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Quote:
Will the d'Armond Guitar Mic setup work with bronze strings? I assume not, but thought i'd ask!
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And I thought, "I've fiddled all night, and lost! You were good, hillbilly ... but you've been bossed." - Mountain Whippoorwill (Or, How Hillbilly Jim Won The Great Fiddler's Prize), Nitty Gritty Dirt Band |
#6
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Yes, the DeArmond Guitar Mike and FHC models work well with bronze strings. In fact, they are actually balanced for bronze strings, which a lot of players don't realize. I'm literally sitting right now with a '33 Gibson L-12 sporting 80/20 bronze and an FHC pickup. Sounds perfect (my own clams notwithstanding).
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Pre-War Guitar Co. Model D and OM-2018 1928 Gibson L-5 |