Piezo Blending

[Steve Hinde]

I have a request to permantently amplify an A model. I want to use 2 different piezo pick-ups. A Fishman bridge and either a Duncan twin spot or McIntyre acoustic feather. My question is how to blend and control volume and tone. I need a preamp installed on the instrument permanently too. Do I need 2 preamps? Can I blend before the preamp or after. I will probably use an Artec VTC control built in to the side. They are the only ones I have found that are small enough. Is there an Artec dealer in the US? I'll install a battery box in the side for the power. Anyone seen any wiring diagrams for an installation like this?

Steve Hinde

[Ted Eschliman]

My (2 pickup) Phoenix Jazz (http://jazzmando.com/rolfe_gerhardt.shtml) has a McIntyre inside and a Kent Armstrong Humbucker at the end of the fingerboard. It's wired to blend outside with a Stereo (1/4") jack through the instrument's endpin. My solution is to run a stereo cord where I blend from two seperate inputs of the same amp.

http://jazzmando.com/PHEPU.jpg

Works nicely! Stereo blend is a great way to go as it gives you versatility in playing environments that demand uniquely different types of control. Louder other instruments means more piezo (like it really matters how "acoustic" in character there--just fighting to be heard); softer ensemble environments use more McIntyre.