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Instructions for a Fishman Matrix Infinity

Amplifying acoustic instruments has always required finding the right balance between amplification and maintaining the natural acoustic sound of the instrument. Fishman began in 1981 as a one-man operation working out of a basement in Boston and has grown into one of the leaders in amplifying acoustic guitars and other acoustic instruments. The Matrix Infinity is an updated version of Fishman's original Matrix. It provides additional features that provide a larger range of volume and tonal operations. The Matrix Infinity also serves as a preamp that boosts the guitar signal before sending it to the guitar amp or public address system.

Things You'll Need

  • Instrument cable
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plug an instrument cable into the jack of the Matrix pickup, which replaced the end pin on the acoustic guitar. This jack is located at the bottom of the guitar where the guitar strap is attached. Plugging the instrument cable into the jack activates the pickup. Plug the opposite end of the instrument cable into a direct box to send to the PA or into your guitar amplifier.

    • 2

      Adjust the volume level for the guitar. The volume and tone controls for the pickup are on a rotary control that is mounted to the sound hole for easy access. Set the volume at the appropriate level. The volume for the guitar will be balanced by adjusting the amplifier or PA volume levels with the pickup volume knob. The volume settings on a guitar pickup influence the overall sound and response of the guitar. The volume knob on the Matrix makes it possible to tweak the volume level for different songs and effects.

    • 3

      Play the guitar and set the treble, bass and mid-range levels on the guitar. When the tone control is turned all the way to the left, the EQ settings are flat. The tone knob is turned to the right to boost the treble and bass and to cut the mid-range. Boosting the bass provides a more natural and warm tone.

    • 4

      Reduce the treble and bass boost to control feedback. More volume is usually required when playing in band context with bass and drums. Acoustic guitars tend to feedback when the volume is too hot. Reduce the amount of treble and bass boost by turning the tone knob to the left. Set it more toward the flat end of the tonal spectrum to help eliminate feedback.

    • 5

      Look at the LED battery indicator. The LED light tells you that the battery is on and that it is operating at full strength. When the LED is weak this indicates that the battery is weak. The battery is the preamp, and a weak battery results in a weak and muddy tone.

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