How to fit a piezo pickup and preamp into an acoustic guitar. The LC-5

[@loadi2865]

I installed a few preamps and I allways look for mistake in videos but you did a perfect job its allways nice to see someone do a good vid.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . :-)

[@wchbang4811]

loadi2 what mistakes can you reccomend to avoid?

[@loadi2865]

first of all my friend ...you don't drill holes or use a jigsaw....you tape the area with green painters tape , mark your dimensions , cut with exacto knife or sheetrock knife with new blade (FOLLOW LINES ) don't use to much pressure PASS OVER LINE UNTIL YOU ARE TROUGH be carefull at the end be gentle ..remove tape a little sanding to make the edges clean and have a snug fit....AND THEN NO MISTAKE ....

[@Arcturian1111]

Did u need to file down the saddle for the piezo fitment height adjustment.?

[@BrandonMillsMPCS]

@@wchbang4811 If you watch carefully as he is testing the fit of the preamp and marking for the screws, you can see the pick he uses to mark the holes go straight into the body of the guitar because the one thing he didn't do was leave any wood for the screws to go into. If you notice on the bottom of the preamp, there are angles that he simply just cut away. Those angles were there so that the screws would have some wood there to grab onto. I'm sure he figured that out. But I also bet that he got a buzz while playing because some of the screws wouldn't tighten. Just something I noticed.

[@truthtopower420]

Honestly a 10\10 video. Presentation and camera work is exceptional as well as explanations. Makes life so much easier.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you very much . . . :-)

[@Roman-jh8kr]

This channel puts so much sincerity in each video. Much apprecited. 🙏

[@guitar-academy]

I appreciate that! thank you very much 😊😃

[@mrGoesto11]

Thanks for taking the time to show us this project. I have an old classical guitar that Ive been wanting to add electronics to. Perfect timing. One suggestion is to use blue tape, not quite as sticky.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . good suggestion

[@StephenWhite55]

When installing a large output-jack module (such as here), it's important to remember to NOT 'intrude' into the area of the butt-end of the guitar that is occupied by the guitar's internal end-block. These end-blocks are glued into the guitar, to reinforce the center of the guitar's butt-end, where the two sides come together. The end-block can vary in size quite a bit, but are usually two to three inches wide.

[@guitar-academy]

Good point and absolutely correct as the end-block is an important part of the guitars strength.

[@arliebox4404]

Thank You for this video. I just ordered the same pre amp, and reading the reviews, there was a lot of complaints that there was no instructions or templates. Your video made me think to myself, "Yeah. this guy's is telling us what should have been common sense!" Great job, and Thank You once again.

[@arliebox4404]

I cant afford the Sony Mic just yet, so maybe sometime in the near future.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you, and I hope your fitting goes smoothly . . . 😊

[@flatpackedbongoband6601]

thanks for this instructional,can't afford to pay a luthier to do it,this is a lifesaver, life ain't worth living without my guitar!

[@guitar-academy]

+flatpackedbongoband :-)

[@189786]

Outstanding job and it really sounds great!

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you very much . . I agree on the sound . . 😊

[@MrGavinspoppop]

Thank you so much for this vid ... I have a 35yr old Madeira that I love ( sentimental ) but the soundhole pickups are not what I want ... now I believe I can use your info and get a decent pickup and a better sound on my gigs ,,, thanks again !! signed ...Old Rocker from the States

[@guitar-academy]

I really love it when someone gets inspired, coz that's what is't all about . . :)

[@robbyrocks5355]

Thank you mate. I watch a few videos about installing a pickup in acoustic guitar. And yours is the best, well explain, neat fit and very precise, I like that. Great job

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you :-)

[@horrykanoi]

I planned to do this on my guitar years ago..thanks for the video..it really help me

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . 😊

[@Sciptopia]

Did u do it?

[@LHommeDeParfum]

Very useful video. I've bought this two years ago but was still scared to fit it on my guitar. Will try this for sure. Thanks

[@guitar-academy]

Glad it was helpful! 🙂

[@LHommeDeParfum]

@@guitar-academy Very helpful. Thank you.

[@guitar-academy]

@@LHommeDeParfum Thank you . . Before installing this pre-amp check out this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHyWm6ijZcR5n8k it's about the same price as the one you bought, but it is noticeably better.

[@1942nn]

I have installed preamp on 50+ guitars using the exact same method and tools before seeing this video today !!! I collected the cut out pieces as souvenirs. The tricky part is the transducer (under the saddle). Cutting the holes is quite easy, although appear to be scary.

[@BattleHamster-z8z]

Thank you for the video 10 of 10 explained and camera showing the installation. Ill follow up how to it went, Cheers.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you very much 😊😀

[@fastracon]

Great video sir! Video was so helpfull to my guitar installation with your step by step instructions. Thank you sir

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you :-)

[@MrRuger1977]

Thanks for this video, I have a Fishman coming by mail and really had no idea how to install it in my old El Degas acoustic. Great video and that guitar sounds great.

[@gerardnatera6997]

Thanks for the tip - very helpful (masking tap, alignment and the use of the small grinder)

[@flatpackedbongoband6601]

+GCH Guitar Academy 🙋thanks,I'm told I'm losing my sight so hope I can fix my guitar before I go blind. thanks a biggy!

[@shinozaaakiii]

I hope you are doing great now.

[@princewilliam431]

I hope you are ok now

[@sillylilfellah]

Hey, hope youre doing ok!

[@greenharvestproductions6743]

hey mate wonderful video excellent way the show how to put the LC 5 I am musician since the age of eight years old I really enjoyed the video please continue to make videos like this it is people like you my dear friend who make KZbin I enjoy your videos greatly first time watching your video will definitely watch more of you video God bless you mate take care here from the United States from Central Florida your friend Joseph

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you so much Joseph, I will try to keep making videos and hopefully get better at it . . . God bless you from North Wales :-)

[@tdubs549]

4:20. My Heart Stopped.

[@tejasram5412]

For me the same feeling

[@MS-ip3wh]

😂😂😂

[@Uber_Versace]

My hear also stopped on 420 but haha for *different reasons*

[@jimmywilliams9664]

@@Uber_Versace Oh man you took my comment how dare you

[@Charlie-ov1bj]

That cutting a hole out is the one reason why i havent fitted a eq on my guitar yet...

[@fouadfouad5634]

I installed it everything works except the low E thank you for helping me you have an idea of ​​this problem

[@guitar-academy]

it sounds like either the pickup isn't installed correctly or the saddle base isn't completely flat, or the surface under the saddle isn't completely flat 🤔

[@downhill240]

Excellent tutorial. I've got an acoustic I want to try this on!

[@Sciptopia]

How did it go?

[@webpainter]

A very good demo - I'm now off to fit my own. Thanks!

[@guitar-academy]

I hope it all goes well and easy . . . :-)

[@billygreen197]

I'm going to be installing a fishman pickup in a 12 string this is the best video I've seen in very good detail. Great Job-

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . . I hope your installation goes smoothly . . :-)

[@KamranQaderi]

Right on. I'm gonna do that to my classical middle eastern instrument and turn it into ac acoustic one.

[@guitar-academy]

😊

[@juanziegler1471]

ok its 2021 but i put a cheep used piezo pickup under the bridge plate of a telecaster ,added a an output jack demolished the kit and it worked ,, just a proof of concept its not my 12 string Taylor but oh well ..keep this up love the videos as always .

[@guitar-academy]

interesting . . 🤔

[@juanziegler1471]

@@guitar-academy it wasnt the best sound ,but functioned better than expected. Was just junk parts .Idd love to try the piezo string saddles on it ,,maybe someday. Even has a trem off an old Harmony lol My FrankenCaster

[@guitar-academy]

@@juanziegler1471 That sounds very cool . . 😊😊

[@billygreen197]

I've always wanted to know how this was done "Great Job" good demo ~Thanks~

[@guitar-academy]

thank you 🙂🙂

[@NJDigger]

Amazing dude i just order the same for my Fender, thank you for the tutorial

[@guitar-academy]

No problem 👍 thank you 😊😃

[@gregcapuano2350]

Great crafting and instruction. KZbin Hero right here!

[@guitar-academy]

😊😊

[@BakerSynth]

I am not really a guitar player, but your expertise of cutting into the wood makes me want to cut into the wooden paneling of my $2800 Dave Smith Squential Prophet 6 and do some modding. :) This was a very impressive instructional video. Excellent Instruction. Maybe you should have stuck a KM84 in there. Well, the Neumann KM84 looks better on the mic stand outside of the guitar anyway. At least my Peluso 84s look nice when I track acoustic.

[@guitar-academy]

Well you certainly like you gear . . . . 😊😊

[@guitar-academy]

Phill Robinson That's a good suggestion in theory however, like most acoustic guitars the depth isn't uniform. On this instrument the body is thinner at the neck than at the base. Therefore if you use a set-square the preamp just looks crooked. It is better to find a centre line and work from there.

[@guitar-academy]

+Nick kourletis NO . . you only put a microphone if you want one . . :-)

[@fadijubran1692]

+GCH Guitar Academy PLS any one can help me will be appreciate it!:)I don't understand what the mic is for ?!Is it the main part that the sound comes from or it's not matter if you put it or not!because I bought one without any mic and I wanted to buy this sony one!But if the sound is coming from the mic then why the pikup piezo is for ?Thanks for anyone that stands with me :) thanks guys.. xD

[@guitar-academy]

+Fadi Jubran The one with the mic also has a piezo. You can balance the sound between the piezo and the mic so you can have all mic or all piezo or a mixture of both. The mic sounds different to the piezo and it is a choice if you want to use it or not. You do not need to have a mic it is just for extra variation to the sound you can produce . . I hope this helps :-)

[@fadijubran1692]

+GCH Guitar Academy Ohh thanks for replying mate so the pickup that goes under the bridge the sound coming from it ? Thanks again appreciate it thanks :)

[@guitar-academy]

+Fadi Jubran Yes, the sound is good that comes from the pickup under the bridge.

[@bigalas27]

Thank you for the interesting video. Does the piezo pickup raise the action noticeably please and would you recommend slightly thinning down the base of the saddle perhaps on a fine grade of sandpaper to bring it back to the same height?

[@jakemitchem8480]

Use sand paper on a flat surface to sand the bridge down but be careful and easy

[@hobiecat901]

You are an Artist sir. An excellent job.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . . . 😊

[@asdrubale2]

Thank You for detailed instruction of installation!

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you for watching . . .

[@RWR71]

Nice one just followed your instructions. perfect.

[@guitar-academy]

Glad it helped . . thank you 😊😀

[@timhoadacoustic]

That’s a very interesting and helpful video, thanks very much!

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . . 😊

[@isander1]

Great vid 👆👍 Bought the identical kit of Ebay £11 in the UK. Not sure if it’s a copy, but it all works. Sounds good, but them I’m no expert. The only downside, you have to remove battery for the preamp to be truly off. Not sure why...

[@guitar-academy]

Me and other people leaving comments have had the same battery problem . .

[@rogb3199]

It's not a bad idea to support the body while making Dremel cuts, rather than cutting one handed = disaster waiting to happen :-) A couple of old towels in a Workmate very lightly clamping the body. I'm going fit an Artec preamp shortly and that is how I do it. I also drill 4 holes inside each corner which makes cutting easier.

[@guitar-academy]

agreed :-) . . . . unfortunately these videos are never done under ideal conditions because I want the video to be as clear as possible I have the need for lights and camera tripods and stuff. To film this I had 2 cameras at different angles and 2 lights at different angles, so you can imagine 4 tripods and trying to work around them.

[@Arcturian1111]

Great Job. Did u have to make any adjustments with respect to the saddle due to the piezo install?

[@guitar-academy]

The saddle and bridge were left untouched because this guitar had a shim under the bridge that I just removed, however in most cases I have to take the width of the piezo off the bottom of the bridge. Apart from drilling a hole for the wire I never remove material from the saddle (it's very risky).

[@brianodea3070]

GCH Guitar Academy in this conversation, are you referring to the plastic saddle as the “Bridge”? Or why would you consider removing plastic as risky as opposed to removing wood?

[@MrNonaste]

Impressive job. Thanks for the great instructional.

[@guitar-academy]

Ray Thanks Ray :-)

[@tsharpton1]

So that Sony microphone that you added to the original preamp I understand is a stereo microphone did you have to use an adapter to use both sides of the mic or did you just stick it in there and only have one side of the mic working?

[@guitar-academy]

Good question . . The mono mini jack socket automatically shorts the channels into one channel so it picks up both mics as if it's a mono mic. 😊

[@mikebennett7261]

Amazing. You continue to educate me.

[@guitar-academy]

That's great . . thank you very much 😊😃

[@ejkoford5303]

Thank you for showing this. I have a couple questions. 1) when you install the transducer under the bridge, it has the effect of raising hte bridge about 1/16 inch and therefore raising the action of the guitar. Did I miss in the video where you shaved the bridge down to compensate? 2) Temu and aliexpress show about 4 EQ pre-amp, tuners that look exactly the same, but have different model numbers. It seems impossible to tell if one os better than another. How do you choose? Thanks much.

[@guitar-academy]

With the pickup, I did mention that the guitar already had a pickup built into it so I didn't need to sand down the saddle or drill a whole for the lead (09:25). I have done a video on how to set up the action correctly. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpOuqoF4jqepm68 Regarding model numbers, Sorry I have no idea, I don't use Temu or Aliexpress. Maybe it's worth checking that it's not a stock number generated by the website rather than an actual model number generated by the factory. 🤔

[@ejkoford5303]

Yup, I missed it. Thanks for clarifying. Temu is an interesting place. Obviously a lot of knockoffs, but sometimes the real thing. For example, packages of Slinky guitar strings that look totally authentic... for $.99. I haven't ordered any. I appreciate the time you took to share this information. @@guitar-academy

[@punjabnolan]

Did you use any sealant or gasket between the preamp and guitar or is there a need ?Great vid thanks

[@guitar-academy]

Only the gasket that was provided with the preamp, it didn't need any additional sealing.

[@chikara3344]

Hello sir, that was phenomenal work. I wanted to know, is there any way to protect the preamp and the equaliser's control sliders when not in use? A lot of dust gets into it and is almost impossible to clean. Thanks in advance! P.S. That's a beautiful white guitar... Could I know the model? A link will work!

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . 😊. The idea of a cover is a really good one because I have never seen one, but it would be a great project for someone with a 3D printer. The guitar was a 'Martin Smith w-401e', but the newer ones are slightly different, but you could probably get one second hand of eBay for really cheap.

[@chikara3344]

@@guitar-academy Thanks for the reply sir. That 3D printed preamp cover idea is really great! I mean, I do put my guitar in a gig bag when I'm not playing for a long time but the dust accumulates in some way!! I may find one with a 3D printer or make something myself with some easy to find things... Maybe some really flexible plastic cover which would snugly fit around the exposed part of the preamp?? Thanks again.

[@ClintHennis-zy9ck]

Great job and sounds great as well

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you very much 😊😃

[@guillaumelarouche5166]

what is song that u play at the end it's sound really great! and if it's ur own composition, do u have the tabs please?

[@dhirenjazz8100]

Good info video by you actually I'm facing same issue noise humm ground issue so do I need to change saddle pick up or there can be issue in pre-amp also????????

[@guitar-academy]

I start with the jackplug socket first and work my way back. The easiest thing (which you've probably done) is to check the connections are pushed in correctly. 🤔

[@dhirenjazz8100]

@@guitar-academy I use di box for noise hum in live but in home set up practice there is hum, cable is okey so like to know is there any problem in pre-amp or saddle pick up????? Well! Thanks for reply

[@Shakes-Off-Fear]

Like the vid, just one question. I'm thinking of ordering a pre-amp like this online. I have a Martinez Parlour style guitar. I want to be sure the contour will fit on the side. Is there a way to test this before ordering?

[@guitar-academy]

Shane Fell Unfortunately no . . not that I know of anyway. But maybe someone here on KZbin will know differently.

[@jakemitchem8480]

You did an extremely incredible job sir and I really learned alot from this video in fact I'm going to use this video to copy what you did on your guitar to both of mine. I'm 17 years old and have been playing for about 2 1/2 to 3 years and you've inspired me. I love the song at the end as well! Also the Sony mix I found 2 versions of one costs about $5 and the other around $50-$60 which one did you buy if you don't mind me asking? Also I'd like to inform you that there is a new Sony STM mic which is an upgraded caged in version of the mic on this video but I enjoyed your playing too much too not buy the exact same as you! Please reply back? I'm eager to learn

[@guitar-academy]

+Jake Mitchem I can't remember now which one I bought but I know it was an older version. One of the best things about this mod is the fact that the microphone plugs in, so you can change it whenever you want.

[@sofajams662]

Did you struggle with the top screws on the control unit? Mine is a tighter fit than yours was and the top screws still miss the woodwork

[@guitar-academy]

There's always one awkward job. I think I had one tight one . . 🙂

[@jineshthomas7887]

Thank you so much for the review. There are only 2 guitar pick ups available in my local guitar shop. The LC-5 and Fishman 301. Which of the two would you recommend? Thanks

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . . I can only give you my experiences of both pickups. The LC-5 I put into this guitar kept flattening batteries very quickly, so I had to remove them when I wasn't using the guitar. This might have been a fault, but I honestly don't know. I install Fishman 301 now. I hope this information is useful 😊😀

[@jineshthomas7887]

@@guitar-academy Thank you for your reply. Sound wise, is there a difference in quality? The Fishman 301 is twice the price of the LC-5. But if you suggest the Fishman, I will go for that. Thanks again

[@guitar-academy]

@@jineshthomas7887 It's hard to say if one sounds any better than the other without trying both pickups in the same guitar. But from my own experiences I would say they sound very similar.

[@jineshthomas7887]

@@guitar-academy Thank you very much. Wish I had these awesome resources when I started off in 1997.☺

[@guitar-academy]

@@jineshthomas7887 no problem, yes things are easier these days 😊

[@MrTom-Songwriter-Composer]

Hello, I hope you are having a great weekend. Thank You for such a great video once again. I actually bought the 4 band EQP pre-amp that is very similar to the one in your video, minus the small microphone. I bought a $35.00 USD "00" body shape acoustic guitar, after setting it up and fixing some minor issue, I installed the piezo pickup pre-amp EQ using a rotary tool and a sharp pocket knife. Sounds amazing! Good enough for the commercial licensed music that I write. Cheers! - MrTom

[@guitar-academy]

It sounds like you have made an OK guitar into a great guitar. :-)

[@MrTom-Songwriter-Composer]

Yes.. and it's rare to find a "00" body acoustic guitar at the $35.00 USD price point. :-) Very interesting body, as it has birch wood for the back and sides, with a butterscotch like stain... again.. very interesting.

[@guitar-academy]

Sounds a really nice looking and unusual guitar

[@oneeyemonster3262]

I got a couple Glorry brand for $47 and the pre amp for $10..The guitars needed work out of the box...i had to recess the front part of the bridge so the strings would clear it...The action on those guitars are around a usa quarter thickness at the 12 fret (NOW)...Standard electric guitar action. The action on my electric are actually lower...I also had to clean the fret's ends. it's less than an hour works...including install the preamp. Both guitars plays great..they sound different acousticly...even though they're identical guitars. Oh yeah...the tuners on both guitars need replacing. Not a big deal...metal seal tuners are only $10...I dont have problems with them... I also got a Irin for $67 and $12 for preamp with mic. The Irin are better quality controlled out of the box...i still had to drop the action and clean the frets ends.. only sand the bridge saddle to drop the action. This guitar is made from sapele wood. it's brighter. I dont mind the guitars having different sounds.. Around $75 each...with preamps....I cant complain I know how to set up and build guitars...it helps i have a 1960 Gibson Mocking Bird ( it's dad's old guitar) Honestly...The gibson sounds better...but not $30K better.lmao Plus Im not going to drill holes in dad's old guitars..lol I scratched the new guitars already. i dont mind...camp fire , picknic guitars. If they get stolen...i wouldnt even cry

[@kickpublishing]

Great job - you appeared a bit nervous LOL but it came out perfect

[@guitar-academy]

LOL . . . yes I was nervous . . but probably more because a camera was pointing at me 😊

[@jasonerhart5791]

Thanks for sharing this. I am trying about doing this to an old beater that I have had laying around for a while now. I have just joined a band back in November and it would be kinda fun to have two acustic guitars to work with instead of just the one that we currently have available to us. I thoroughly enjoyed your playing at the end of this video. You are very talented. Thanks for sharing your experience and skills with us. I would really enjoy more videos of you playing. You aren't from the Dorset area of the UK are you? Your accent reminds me of an old acquaintance I knew from college who is from Dorset.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you very much :-) It's really great to know that a video I've done has encouraged someone. This is the only video I've every done that shows me playing, I don't like showing myself which is why all my other videos don't show anything but the hands. I might do some playing videos now , , I'm not from Dorset, I am originally from Manchester but I live in North Wales.

[@TheCallouscal]

GCH Guitar Academy Where abouts in North Wales? Do you do any private tutoring? I'm on the coast :) lol

[@chovicko]

I have a question, is possible join single coil pickup to microphone input? I mean something like fender telecoustic deluxe

[@guitar-academy]

I have no idea, sorry. The thing that would you need to check up on is the impedance of the mic and the pickup. If the impedances are different the pickup will probably work, but it will either produce too much power so it distorts or not enough so it is too quite. You will have to do some more research to see if anyone has done it. Tell me how you get on, it would be a useful comment for lots of people . . . .

[@ricardojoaogodel]

Hi, thanks for the great video. I followed to install a preamp like yours and it worked. The only thing i can't do is to use the mic because it immediately causes distortion. What mic are you using? Can you recommend some not expensive mic? Thanks again for the great work!

[@guitar-academy]

I'm really happy that the video helped you. I used a 'Sony ECM-DS70P' but you can get copies of these off eBay that work just as well in a guitar. 😊

[@ricardojoaogodel]

@@guitar-academy Thanks for the quick reply and for the suggestion. I will for the cheaper ones on ebay. Thanks again!

[@ricardojoaogodel]

@@guitar-academy By the way. Do you have any idea on why the mic causes distortion (it is so bad that cannot even use it). Anything that I may did wrong? Thanks!

[@guitar-academy]

@@ricardojoaogodel Without seeing it and hearing it there is no way I can tell. It could be the mic and it could be a faulty pre-amp, it might even be as simple as the mic being plugged in the wrong hole. Here I can swap things to check them. If you can I would suggest borrowing a mic from someone or something just to try it, but if you can't I understand that.

[@ricardojoaogodel]

@@guitar-academy Many thanks for your reply. I already order a simple mic and I will try it as soon as it arrives. Even without the mic and just withthe piezo the sound is great. I hope that blending them will be even better. Thanks again.

[@jdstewart9689]

perfect install... Ive done dozens of em..this guy is a craftsman indeed... I will upgrade my microphone on my next install next week..what do you recommend? JD

[@guitar-academy]

I still like the 'Sony ECM-DS70P ' but there's lots of new ones now so it might be worth checking out some KZbin reviews . . . 🙂🙂

[@raxlyy6416]

it's so nice to see you reply to all our comments. I hope you reply to mine as well. So the sony ecm ds70p cost is quite high, I'm thinking of getting the fake one which is comparatively cheap, so will I still be getting a comfortable non-noisy tone with that cheap fake stereo microphone?

[@guitar-academy]

That's the one I used (the copy). I borrowed a Sony one and did a comparison and the difference was tiny and easily corrected with EQ, it was not worth the difference in cost to get the Sony. :-)

[@jymmiv]

+GCH Guitar Academy Hi, I'm thinking of fitting one of these piezo pickups and preamps to my acoustic guitar (I'm looking at the exact same kit that you have used here). If it's connected to a mixing desk via XLR can the preamp be powered via phantom or is a 9v battery still required?

[@ravishgoel8718]

Hello sir, really nice video,thanks for this. I have a query, does it affects the natural sound of acoustic guitar (unplugged), and does it raise the action also?? Please suggest,regards

[@guitar-academy]

+Ravish Goel If you reshape the bridge it shouldn't raise the action. It does effect the acoustic sound of the instrument slightly, but usually not too much. Both of these things would be different guitar to guitar so there is no guarantee.

[@cleangoblin2021]

You made it look easy. Thanks. I think ill just save money and buy the best pickups i can

[@guitar-academy]

Yes, that makes very good sense, especially if you like your guitar 😊😃

[@alexgunawanlex4176]

thanks for the suggestions man , i'll try to check it up..

[@The_Acquainted_Era]

So helpful. Thank you so much sir. I'll try it

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you . . I hope it goes well for you . . 😊

[@The_Acquainted_Era]

Which brand and model do you prefer

[@guitar-academy]

@@The_Acquainted_Era I recently did a review and installation on a 'Fishman Presys Blend 301' which I got off eBay for just over 10 UK pounds (from China). I like that one because of the way the battery fits and the output jack fits, the battery also lasts longer in that one. I think the sound is the same, but without fitting both preamps into the same guitar I can never be sure . . 😊

[@shaunkelly3562]

Is this pre-amp kit better than the Fishman unit you installed on the Glary guitar? I'm trying to decide which one to buy. Thanks

[@guitar-academy]

No, the Fishman is definitely better. The main thing I've noticed and other people Ive spoken to have noticed is that this one eats batteries where as the Fishman doesn't. There is very little in the sound. 🙂

[@shaunkelly3562]

@@guitar-academy Perfect! Thanks for the fast response.

[@guitar-academy]

@@shaunkelly3562 No problem . . 🙂

[@mrbomplastik]

Hi, thank you for the video ! How much did you spend on that amp? Is it worth spending more on brand-products or do the no-name ones do a (almost) equal job?

[@guitar-academy]

mrbomplastik Good question . . . I used this product because at the time I made the video only one or two companies made the variety with a mic. The criticism I had of the preamp I used was the fact that the batteries went flat very quickly. Another thing to consider is the fact that I fitted this pickup/amp just to make the video and the guitar was a very cheap one. If I was doing this again on a guitar that was more expensive or a guitar I liked I would probably go for a brand-product, but I would recommend a bit of research first . . looking reviews and stuff.

[@mrbomplastik]

GCH Guitar Academy The thing is that most reviews say the expected: decent sound for that price.... doesn't really help... have you personally any experience with the (30 bux) fishman presys blend? Sounds nice in youtube videos.... most other tests, demonstrations and comparisons are only for high end products...

[@guitar-academy]

mrbomplastik At the moment I don't do reviews, mainly because I don't have a sponsor and I don't have the resources to buy guitars and pickups just for the sake of tests. I merely video some of the upgrades and repairs I do to my own and my clients guitars. The videos I do are 'How To' videos and you would have to contact a reviewer to get a decent review. However, you have given me thought for the future . . But to answer your question, one of my many guitars is a James Neligan electro-acoustic with Fishman electrics and it is the nicest recording guitar I have owned for years. I would say it sounds more natural than any of the high end guitars I have owned. I was just selling it for someone, but after playing with it for a week I sold my own guitar had held onto it. So 'Yes' I have hours of experience with the Fishman in a recording environment and I rate them highly.

[@9137576538]

А у меня эвалайзер был без микрофона, даже разъёма не было. Будет хуже, если его отключить?

[@guitar-academy]

You have the Fishman 301+ which is the original, better one. The one I use in this video is the Fishman 301 blend which is a copy.

[@abidurrahman4438]

Does this decrease sound quality of the guitar or affects the natural sound in any way?

[@lefthandedguitar3414]

On the guitar in the video, any sound quality decrease was imperceptible. There was literally no change in the natural sound, however this will vary from guitar to guitar. I wouldn't do this to a guitar unless I really needed it for recording or stage use where the natural sound isn't enough.

[@abidurrahman4438]

Yeah,was thinking the same.Instead of taking risks I should just save up to buy a new guitar(already built in).

[@guitar-academy]

Sorry, I answered your question in the wrong account . . LOL Yes. The guitar in the video was a really cheap one (as an experiment) however I wasn't disappointed with the sound and I actually used it in an important recording. But I wouldn't take an important guitar to me and do this.

[@Rob-fs8hj]

Nah

[@JNITLOST]

Excellent video - lovely sound

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you very much. I agree on the sound.

[@weswemyssonbass]

Most pickup manufacturers provide the templates you'll need to cut the holes on their websites. You can print these out at 100% size, cut the template out and stick it on to your taped over guitar. Much simpler than all the measuring and marking.

[@jackquentin1950]

Hi there, is it okay if the saddle is a little loose when you have an undersaddle piezo pickup?

[@guitar-academy]

good question . . Yes that's OK, the strings will put pressure on it and hold it down 😊

[@elibuckley6713]

i recently did this same thing to my jasmine acoustic. Can you tell me what model MIC you upgraded to? I cannot seem to find any on eBay. Your video gave me complete confidence to do this on my own and I'm glad that I did. So thanks so much and cheers from N.Y.

[@guitar-academy]

I see what you mean, I just went on Ebay and had the same trouble. I found the best search terms were 'miniature mic' and 'miniature microphone', which threw up a good selection of mics that would do the job. The original microphone used was a 'Sony ECM-DS70P' and the latest version of that mic is called the 'Sony STM10', both these mics are on Ebay so now you know what you are looking for you should have more joy. Thanks for comments from North Wales :-)

[@elibuckley6713]

Thanks for the reply its much appreciated. I love the looks of the Sony MIC so I will definitely be giving it a whirl. Thanks again.

[@sailcaptain]

Does the pickup work with nylon strings? I was told that they don't.

[@guitar-academy]

Somebody is telling you lies or doesn't know what they are talking about . . unfortunately there is a lot of that on KZbin. I can prove that they work with nylon strings, you just have to watch some of my tutorials on finger picking kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2SzqZiGhtJ5eK8 . Before buying one for your nylon strung guitar, measure the bridge and make sure you buy a pickup of the same length. 😊

[@sailcaptain]

@@guitar-academy It was someone at my local Guitar Center.

[@guitar-academy]

@@sailcaptain I guess they might have thought you meant an electric guitar (coil magnet) type pickup . . . because they won't work with nylon strings. With piezo you are good to go though.

[@leodanryan966]

I bought the extra same kit, but before hacking into my guitar I tried it out. After turning the unit off the piezoelectric pickup and mic stay active. Is this normal? I think It's going to drain the battery right?

[@guitar-academy]

Yes, that will drain the battery but normally the switch on the control unit is just for the tuner display. The switch for the pickup amp is in the jackplug and xlr plug so it should go off when you unplug it. Unfortunately this is a little awkward to test.

[@isander1]

Glad I see this. There are switches inside the unit. I moaned to the Ebayer selling to me, but they never replied. Just a simple bit of paper would clarify all this...

[@Evansemporium]

Very helpful, Thank you.

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you :-)

[@MrKuX]

Great video sir, but i saw some video, they are using jigsaw and driller to make the hole. Does using these tool will have major effect?

[@guitar-academy]

Just as long as the hole is clean and the correct size it doesn't matter what tool you use. :-)

[@tuttuti123]

Is there any chances that your guitar will collapse without even accidentally cutting through the braces?

[@guitar-academy]

only if the guitar is very thin and there is no wood either side of the the hole and/or the glue holding it together has become very brittle and weak

[@leetantum4197]

Brilliant video my friend... after watching it, I bought the exact same kit as u... installed.it all today... I was just wondering do u find that the piezo pickup lacks volume on the E and A strings??? Cos I do lol :(

[@guitar-academy]

Lee Tantum Mine was really good and had good uniformity throughout. But this is the only issue I've come across with the cheap pickups uniformity . . you get 8 good ones and 2 bad (ish). However, this problem can arise if the bottom of the bridge isn't completely flat. The next time you change you strings, try taking the bridge out and sand it very slightly on a completely flat surface with very fine sand paper.

[@leetantum4197]

GCH Guitar Academy Ive already done that... think I'll buy another, better quality transducer to replace it

[@bennyhill3505]

Hi, dunno if you're still commenting on this , but here goes anyway. Firstly i think you did a good job with the vid. Nice editing, free flowing, and easy to understand. I am thinking of installing an UST on my guitar, just a few queries..... 1_Most people i see doing the 'upgrade' are doing so on cheap guitars, and as my guitar is worth approx £500 i am understandably nervous. Would you do this on a 'relatively' expensive guitar? 2_The topside of the guitar seems to have some varnish/lacquer, and i'm cautious about cracking it. Are there any tips to minimise the chances of damaging the guitar?. Lastly, any advice with fitting saddle? Many Thanks...................

[@guitar-academy]

+Benny Hill 1. If you aren't confident . . don't do it. 2. once you have measured the whole size you can scratch or cut the varnish with a very sharp knife to prevent any cracks appearing. Again . . the best advice is if you aren't sure or confident don't do it, just buy a guitar with the pickups fitted.

[@replayreviews6339]

I feel like I can pretty much trust anything this man says about anything. His voice and accent are so persuasive lol

[@davidcervin3408]

He didn't touch on installing without one allready installed HUGE difference I have one someone installed but now the bridge sits to high up the action sucks and the instrument unplayable??

[@pranavsrao8209]

awsome sir...................its really great

[@guitar-academy]

Thank you :-)

[@pUiAcCk2000]

Sir how can i buy this iteam??? I want to be install into my acoustic guitar

[@guitar-academy]

You have to do your own search on eBay or Amazon because it's different in every country 🤔

[@angelguevara6548]

Great video. Can you provide any tips for getting a humbucker pickup to connect to an acoustic preamp? Do you have to solder the mini jack to the humbucker or something?

[@ayllyn6788]

Hello what does the "note" button do on the tuner thingy? Im a beginner and I accidentally pressed it instead of the power button when I wanted to turn it off and now the tuner doesnt work. Thanks!

[@guitar-academy]

The note button turns on the tuner. In tuner mode no sound comes out of the output of the guitar and If you leave it on it will flatten the battery, which is probably what has happened to your guitar. 🤔

[@ayllyn6788]

@@guitar-academy Ohh okay. If you dont mind me asking, do you know a way to make it work like how it used to again?

[@ayllyn6788]

When we first bought it, when I pressed the power button, it would automatically detect the guitar string when I pluck it. But now only the "-50", "+50" and line indicator thingy which doesnt move anymore shows up.

[@guitar-academy]

@@ayllyn6788 Just press the button again . .

[@DSTerry61]

Thanks great video feel confident to fit mine now 😀🎸

[@guitar-academy]

:-)

[@NorbertNagyNorc]

Hi there, Thank's for the great stuff. Sorry, I coulldn't read all the comments - how do you set the balance between the piezo and the mic? I'm planning to replace the mic with a neck magnetic pickup - do you think it's a straight swap? Thanks!

[@guitar-academy]

This pre-amp has a balance slider so you can easily adjust the balance between the mic and the pickup. I don't know if a straight swap would work because the mic and the pickup probably have a different impedance and there might be distortion. The simplest way of finding this out would be to test it before fitting it in the guitar.

[@dieginAA]

Hi what's the name of the microphone you change at the and instead of the one tha comes with the pickups??? Links please

[@jossiancaraballo7679]

Diego Avendaño sony ecm-ds70p

[@robertkelly1434]

First, thank you for making this video, it's motivated me to try this upgrade on my Briarwood six-string. This setup from Prener is availabe on Amazon for a good price. You mentioned the microphone upgrade, was the song you played at the end with the original mic, or with the new Sony mic?

[@guitar-academy]

I upgraded the mic straight away, so it is on the Philips one . . but you get the best sound by balancing between the mic and the piezo . . 😀

[@geraldlattka8910]

number of videos on here showing drilling the hole out.. ..i even watched one using a jig saw. ..they are really scary... your method definately best ..failing that a couple holes drilled then use a hacksaw fine or medium blade.... failing all that get a lither to do it ..

[@guitar-academy]

I've used this method on lots of guitars and I've never made a mess of a guitar. Here's a more recent one I did, the guitar work is the same but the video quality is way better 🙂 kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHyWm6ijZcR5n8k

[@geraldlattka8910]

Following your video and advice ......Just fitted a Fishman Aura pro ( genuine " 2nd hand ".. from a new damaged guitar from my guitar shop ) onto my pride and joy as by your instructions.. perfect ..thanks very much for a fantastic demo... ps....I will even order one of those ali-express jobs myself for my 12 string.." Pre-fix pro blend " model..

[@guitar-academy]

@@geraldlattka8910 It sounds like you've got the luthier bug . . 🙂

[@alexgunawanlex4176]

i have a problem with my guitar,, my 3rd string is not loud as the other strings, is it mean that my piezo pickup in problem?, ,, and how to fix it,,?.. i realy need your answer, thankyou bro...

[@guitar-academy]

+Alex Gunawan Lex I would say that the most likely thing to be wrong is the pickup, it sounds like it could be the pickup that is faulty. But 2 other suggestions, 1 if the strings are not a complete set you will find a lighter string will have less volume. 2 if the underside of the bridge is uneven this can cause issues, make sure the underside of the plastic bridge is making contact uniformly with the pickup.

[@maxdegrussa]

I have installed a LC-5 4 Bands EQ Equalizer Acoustic Guitar Preamp Tuner Piezo Ceramic Pick-up and was wondering will the 5 band fit into the same cutout ??

[@guitar-academy]

Very sorry, I have no idea but perhaps someone else seeing your comment will know . .

[@6torp3]

Hi I have a problem while fitting my pietzo pick up, the channel on the saddle was the much the same depth as the pick up which resulted in no depth to hold the bridge in position which bends when tightening strings any tip on how to solve please

[@guitar-academy]

the solution to this is either to take some of the height off the bridge or to use a file or mini-drill to go deeper into the saddle, depending on the guitar. I tend to do a bit of both, make the channel a little deeper and take some height off the bridge. It is important not to go down too deep into the bridge.

[@pablovilela]

Nice job! I have a question: The recorded song from the end of the video is from the microphone mixed with the piezo under the guitar saddle? Or just the microphone? or just the piezo? Can you balance them till you get a nice mix from both?

[@guitar-academy]

What you described is exactly what did. . . I balanced the piezo and the mic until I was happy with the sound. Depending on which preamp you buy, you get a separate volume for the pickup and the mic or a mixer control

[@davkenrem]

How good is this preamp, How does it compare to the ones that come in like an Ibanez AEG with the Fishman Pickup? Is it worth putting in a $300.00 guitar?

[@guitar-academy]

personally I wouldn't put it in an expensive guitar, but at the same time the pickup and preamp are remarkably good. I'm going to buy another one and get a cheap guitar to put it in because the factory fitted Fishman in the acoustic I'm using at the moment is rubbish . . I sold the guitar I used in the video to one of my students ages ago and I'm sorry I did because the recording sound was exceptional. The only downer I had on it is that it seemed to eat through batteries really quickly.

[@davkenrem]

@@guitar-academy Thanks

[@trial4787]

will be the sound of piezo blending with the mic?. or we can use one of them?

[@guitar-academy]

You can blend between the mic and the piezo exactly how much you want. It's a really good feature . . 😊

[@6torp3]

I did file the bridge down a bit but was afraid to chance gouging out the channel thanks I'll give that a go see how it goes, Thany you

[@guitar-academy]

Yes, I understand that. You should (of might be able to) be able to find out the depth of wood available using the hole for the wire.

[@whoisrumba]

which song were you playing while testing the guitar sir??? plz answer me!! i really liked it!!

[@guitar-academy]

+bishal lite That tune doesn't have a name yet. I wrote that little bit for the test, but I never finished the song. I will put a link up when it is finished.

[@whoisrumba]

awesome !! I'll be waiting for that!!! thank you!! :D

[@vinitjoshi2665]

Thanks for the detailed video mate! Does it mute the sound while tuning?

[@guitar-academy]

Thanks . . Yes it does 😊

[@vinitjoshi2665]

@@guitar-academy one which I've got is almost similar but has a 5 band EQ and it doesn't mute while the tuner is on.

[@guitar-academy]

@@vinitjoshi2665 Oh . . That's unusual . .

[@dzgamer4113]

what song were you playing while testing the guitar

[@weswemyssonbass]

At 9:23 Dude, the hole in the bridge doesn't have to be big enough for the plug to fit through, it only has to be wide enough for the filament to fit through. You feed it through from the inside of the guitar. You don't want peeps drilling jack sized holes in their bridges, man! Other than that, this is a great vid. Nice to see you using the Dremel type tool for a good clean cut, unlike that other guy with the jig saw.

[@guitar-academy]

The plug does need to be big enough for the plug to fit through because the piezo is the solid type and it can't be bent without damaging it, so you have to feed it from the top of the guitar. 🙂🙂 You are talking about a different type of pickup.