Fishman Presys+ Preamp and Pickup System is a comprehensive and versatile solution designed to elevate the amplified sound of your acoustic guitar. This system integrates a sophisticated preamp with a high-quality pickup, providing guitarists with enhanced tonal control and clarity. The Fishman Presys+ is ideal for both live performances and studio recordings, offering a blend of advanced features and user-friendly operation.
In this review, we will explore the key features and benefits of the Fishman Presys+ system. At the heart of the Presys+ is its intuitive preamp, equipped with volume control, a three-band EQ (bass, middle, treble), and a built-in tuner with an LED display. This allows players to fine-tune their sound with precision, ensuring optimal tonal balance and accuracy. The system also includes a notch filter and phase switch, which help eliminate feedback and improve the overall sound quality in various playing environments.
The Presys+ system comes with a high-quality undersaddle piezo pickup that captures the natural resonance and dynamics of your acoustic guitar. The preamp and pickup are designed to work seamlessly together, delivering a clear, natural, and powerful sound. The compact and unobtrusive design of the preamp module fits neatly into the guitar’s side, preserving the instrument’s aesthetic and ergonomic feel.
Overview of the Fishman Presys+ Preamp and Pickup System
The Fishman Presys+ Preamp offers musicians an effective pickup system seamlessly integrated with a built-in tuner. This combination provides a versatile and user-friendly option for acoustic performances, both live and in-studio settings. Engineered to enhance the tonal output of your guitar without color or distortions, it ensures your instrument’s authentic voice is preserved.
Key Features
To grasp why the Fishman Presys+ is celebrated, let’s take a closer look at some of its key features:
- Built-in Tuner: Provides you with instant tuning capabilities, essential for on-the-fly adjustments during performances.
- Easy Installation: Designed for seamless integration with minimal impact on your guitar’s structure.
- Advanced Tone Controls: Features a 3-band equalizer and a mid-frequency adjustment feature.
- Battery Life Indicator: Helps you to avoid the dreaded mid-performance power outage.
- Low Profile Control Knobs: This ensures a sleek, unobtrusive appearance.
These features allow you to experience superb control over your instrument’s sound and make the Presys+ a standout option in the market.
Performance
A review of the Fishman Presys+ would be incomplete without discussing its performance. With this system, you have the opportunity to turn the volume up without compromising your guitar’s natural tone. Designed to reduce feedback, its performance is exemplary during live gigs. The fine-tuning options grant you the ability to shape your sound with precision, courtesy of the 3-band EQ and notch filter.
Sound Quality
One of the most acclaimed aspects of the Fishman Presys+ is its ability to convey a genuine acoustic sound. Unlike some systems that impose an ‘electric’ edge over acoustics, the Presys+ is laser-focused on maintaining your guitar’s distinct character while enhancing its projection. Musicians appreciate its transparency and clarity, which can make your music feel raw and more personal.
Usability
Featuring an intuitive layout, the Fishman Presys+ is remarkably user-friendly despite its advanced technology. The built-in tuner is an invaluable feature for artists continuously on the go—no more fumbling with external tuners. The controls are straightforward, allowing musicians to make quick, effective sound adjustments without needing a Ph.D. in engineering.
Installation
If you shudder at the thought of installing intricate electronics into your beloved guitar, the Fishman Presys+ offers some respite. Its design facilitates straightforward installation, effectively minimizing any damage to the guitar.
Installation Process
The Fishman Presys+ includes an installation guide with step-by-step instructions. Here is a summarized version:
| Step | Action | Tools Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Remove existing strings or lower tension. | String Winder |
| 2 | Carefully carve out a cavity for the preamp. | Dremel Tool |
| 3 | Install the sensor under the bridge. | Screwdriver |
| 4 | Mount the preamp into the cut-out hole. | Saw, Sandpaper |
| 5 | Connect all wiring to the output jack. | Soldering Kit |
| 6 | Test the system to ensure proper functionality. | Multimeter |
| 7 | Re-string your guitar and adjust for play. | String Winder |
Bear in mind the delicacy of the operation. Consulting a professional luthier might be a prudent choice if you’re hesitant about doing it yourself.
Durability
When investing in gear for your beloved instrument, durability can often be as crucial as performance. The Fishman Presys+ is known for its robust build. Manufactured using high-quality components, it’s designed to withstand frequent use. This ensures that your system will continue to deliver exceptional sound clarity for years to come, making it an investment that offers long-term value.
Material Quality
Each component is engineered with durability in mind. The control panel is resistant to the usual bumps and knocks of an active musical life. With solid materials, you shouldn’t face peeling or fading, even after extensive and heavy use.
Pros and Cons
While the Fishman Presys+ has predominantly received positive feedback, no product is without its caveats.
Pros
- Sound Fidelity: Maintains your guitar’s natural tone.
- Quick Adjustments: User-friendly controls.
- Integrated Tuner: Extremely useful for gigging musicians.
- Installation Kit: Comes with a comprehensive guide.
Cons
- Installation Complexity: Might require professional assistance.
- Price: Relatively higher compared to basic models.
- Battery Life: Although reasonable, it’s not the longest-lasting on the market.
Comparison with Other Systems
To give you a well-rounded perspective, it’s helpful to consider how the Fishman Presys+ holds up against similar systems in the market.
Fishman Presys+ vs. LR Baggs Anthem
| Feature | Fishman Presys+ | LR Baggs Anthem |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Transparency | High, with minimal color enhancement. | Excellent but slightly warmer tones. |
| Built-in Tuner | Yes | No |
| Installation | Moderate, requires some technical skill. | Slightly simpler. |
| Price Range | Lower | Higher |
Verdict
While both these options excel in their own rights, the choice may ultimately hinge on your priority for cost-effectiveness and a built-in tuner.
Conclusion
So, should you invest in the Fishman Presys+ Preamp and Pickup System? It depends on what you value most in an acoustic pickup system. With its ability to achieve clarity, provide user-friendly features, and maintain the authentic tonal quality of your instrument, the Fishman Presys+ stands as a compelling option. It might demand a bit of a learning curve with installation and set-up, but the ongoing benefits can be more than worth the initial hurdles. If preserving your guitar’s inherent sound while amplifying your creative possibilities speaks to you, the Fishman Presys+ could very well be the perfect addition to your musical arsenal.
Remember, gear is as much about feel as it is about specs. With the Fishman Presys+, you gain not only a tool but a companion in your musical journey.
Hi, I write for My Guitar Advisor. I immensely enjoy playing and writing about guitars. I hope you find my articles and reviews helpful in your musical journey!
