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Slight problem with B-Band AST pickup..


bt2513

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Posted

I just installed my AST and the preamp that came with it and I noticed that it is VERY trebley. In fact, so much that it is causing extreme high frequency feedback if I stand too close to the monitors... and I'm not standing close at all. I even use a feedback buster. On the other hand, after installing it, I had to slap a fresh set of strings on it and because the battery pack is a little awkward to get to I went ahead and loaded it up with one of the Energizer MAX batteries... maybe thats what is causing it to be too bright.

 

Other than that, the pickup picks up EVERYTHING... which is GREAT. I use a lot of percusive soundboard stuff so it really fits my style... I'm just trying to tame it for the gig tonight.

 

Right now, all I've got is a DOD EQ which I'll be using to notch it a little.

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I haven't used a B-band AST, but I would say there's probably nothing wrong with it. From what I've read, I think feedback is the main drawback to soundboard transducers. I don't know if covering the soundhole will help, because it will stop the top from vibrating, which defeats the purpose for using a soundboard transducer, which is to pick up every nuance of sound from the top.

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I have 2 AST systems (1470s w/ A1 preamps), and neither exibit the problems you mention, and feedback has never really been more of an issure with these, for me, than a mag pick-up would be.

 

I suggest contacting B-Band tech support. It may be nothing more than an issue of pick-up placement.

 

Tony

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I was able to get around the feedback problem last night... I think it may have a lot to do with the crappy PA we use to practice with... however, I still notice the pickup to be really crisp and high endy when I play... I had to use the EQ to turn the treble all the way down.

 

I will try again without the soundhole cover, as it sounded much better without it... but then again, the B-Band goes DIRECTLY beneath the bridge so I would think that this wouldn't influence it too much.

 

thanks for the replies though!

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I had the same problem. If you have an A2 preamp, in the preamp are four switches. All should be off if using the ast alone. One of those switches is a treble boost. Bband pickups are very easy to install .If you followed the instructions then it is installed properly.

You may also want to make sure the ballends on the strings are not digging into the ast. Good luck!

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Posted

 

Originally posted by funkyfingers

I had the same problem. If you have an A2 preamp, in the preamp are four switches. All should be off if using the ast alone. One of those switches is a treble boost. Bband pickups are very easy to install .If you followed the instructions then it is installed properly.

You may also want to make sure the ballends on the strings are not digging into the ast. Good luck!

 

 

 

Didn't think about this... I'll have to check when I get home on the ball-ends.

 

As far as installation goes, it was easy and pretty straight forward and I followed the template to a "T".

 

I do not have the A2 preamp but the A1 that came with it... NOT the A1 the is suited for the UST. Are there switches on the inside of the A1 as well? I didn't see any during installation.

 

The pickup is extremely sensitive... which I love...

 

I'm beginning to think its just because I'm not used to pickups of this caliber. My older Takamine EG-334C had a good p/u and preamp for its time, but I imagine the B-Band technology is much more efficient and accurate.

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I have the A2.2 system, and have noticed the AST is REALLY sensitive, although not necessarily too trebly. I turn the AST way down, just a touch to soften and add some color to the UST. I have been using a Lute Hole feedback buster, and never thought that it might have a negative effect on the AST's function. I'll have to try it without.

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No, the A1 has no switches. You may have a bad pick-up. If it doesn't sound good to you, I personally would NOT accept "I may not be used to the sound", and tarry on. Call tech support. :)

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Posted

I have an AST with A1 preamp in my guitar and it is perfectly balanced tone/volume wise. I have a slight problem with feedback only if I face the amp and get close to it.

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Posted

Originally posted by Carle

I have a slight problem with feedback only if I face the amp and get close to it.

 

Which what Hendrix would have to do in order to get his Strats to feedback :p .

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Posted

Originally posted by Carle

Yes, and it can be fun at times:cool:
:D

 

 

Alas, my other band mates do not find it very fun... jerks.

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Posted

Originally posted by bt2513




Alas, my other band mates do not find it very fun... jerks.

 

Friends look the other way when friends are feeding back. It's just courtesy.;):D

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