Mixed-source system

What is it? A number of modern electroacoustic systems combine two sources (sometimes three). For example an under-saddle pickup with an internal microphone, or a soundhole pickup with an internal mic. This enables you to gain the positive attributes of an undersaddle, for example, (great signal, focussed, tight, projecting sound) while adding some of the body, air and resonance of a mic. What preamp and power does it need? Modern dual-source systems tend to have their own on-board own preamp, so you just plug them in to whatever you like; mixer/PA, acoustic amp or outboard DI/processor. It’s worth checking to see if the two sources can be output separately via a stereo/TRS jack (for separate EQ/processing) or whether the two signals are summed to mono.

Dual-Source systems commonly have their own on-board power via a battery; some can also run via phantom power through the jack. How to fit it This is a combination of some of the single-source requirements mentioned previously, so depends on what the two sources are. It can be as simple as installing a soundhole pickup with a gooseneck mic already attached to it. Controls tend to end up just inside the soundhole, affixed with strong double-sided tape or pads. Upsides: Combines the best bits of two sound sources; versatile and flexible Downsides: A lot of stuff in the guitar; can be confusing to use Our top three picks Fishman Rare Earth Blend D-Tar Wave-Length Multi-Source System Highlander iP-2 Dual System