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The MagPi system used on our electroCoustics can also be adapted for full
acoustic instruments. Whether a flattop, archtop, resonator, acoustic bass
guitar or mandolin, the Magpi makes a fully viable, hassle free, passive
system a reality for live acoustic performance. Very good stage volume levels
can be attained, while requiring a minimum of extra signal processing gear.
We do recommend a less than the most resonant instrument; a mid priced
instrument, one with good playability and less resonant characteristics is
actually more desirable as this will allow higher gain levels before the
instrument begins to interact with the sound system or amplifier.
Modern, inexpensive instruments are vastly superior to their equivalents of
25 years ago. They can be stable, easy playing and in tune....the ideal
candidate for a great sounding live rig. We have three examples on this page,
a Taylor Big Baby, and a new model import from Aria, the MM20 "Django" style
guitar, and the traditonal jazz archtop, an Epiphone Zephyr Regent.
Here are some audio samples of this system:
When you listen to the mp3's, you will recognize great tone and sensitivity
from this simple, passive system.
What is on the MagPi system
Included is both the piezo and a dual coil magnetic string pickup, plus a volume and
bias control, to allow for a bit more of either pickup in the mix. The installed price
starts at $150 for a basic flattop.
An archtop, if it already has a suitable magnetic
pickup at the neck position, starts
at $120. A Kent Armstrong pickguard mounted magnetic
pickup included in the system is $200. We'll also include a new rosewood compensated bridge.
Depending on the particular guitar and the difficulty of the install, the price will vary
somewhat. We also have available a clip-on MagPi system for round hole guitars for $150.
For the archtop guitar, most often all that is needed is the piezo part of the equation,
since there is usually a magnetic pickup already installed. A bias pot is included, and a
switch if there are multiple magnetic pickups on the instrument. Although the MagPi will
work with a Tune-O-Matic style bridge, we highly recommend a wood saddle and will include
a complete rosewood or ebony bridge in the kit. The archtop recording here has the MagPi
rolled more toward the piezo on the rhythm track, while the lead line is more toward the
magnetic and a more "traditional" jazz tone.
Acoustic basses, mandolins and resonator guitars will all benefit from the
lively tone and reliability of the MagPi system. Call for details on your
particular instrument.
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