Thanks, everyone, I really appreciate it.
I do have other guitars to use for open mics. Two that are better suited. Better preamps and very good sounds. I just like the Martin very much and want to be able to play it out.
It would sound fine with a Fishman Aura or perhaps an EQ, but, as I wrote above, just want to keep it simple. The venue I play most is small, simple, jump up and play. No messing around with pedals, set up, or even changing controls on the amp or PA. Not a big deal....I am sure I could just jump up and put an Aura on the floor and go...but.....
Thought about selling and getting something better suited...then thought why? I like the guitar a lot. Just change the preamp.
It is looking as though the LR Baggs Lyric may be the best solution. I would not have to remove the fishman preamp, or even the piezo. Just install the LR Baggs and replace the output jack with the LR Baggs one. Put the LR Baggs controller on the other side of the sound hole. Could probably use the Fishman battery compartment for the Baggs.
Will have to see. The Lyric is $200. A Fishman Aura 16 would be that, less for used. Useful for all my acoustics. But, it would need power (does have a batt compartment) and it would not do any EQ....so....I wonder if the selections would be enough? The Aura spectrum would do A LOT. 3 band EQ, compressor, images, DI, BUT....$350 ($230 used). Hmmmmmm…...so...that would be really getting into it. More stuff, more money, needs power....worth it over a new preamp?
[Note added: After looking at some videos of the aura...not sure it would be the best solution. It makes your guitar sound like your guitar, just better. I want the Martin to have a more acoustic plugged in sound. Something like the LR Baggs Para DI is mostly useful for EQ....I have a couple EQ pedals...they do help. Hmmm....really is sounding as though I put in a new preamp...or nothing].