TO AMPLIFY OR NOT TO AMPLIFY

 

Amplified Acoustic Guitar

Or put in other words the title of this post could read, "To be or not to be." A quote taken from Shakespeare's play Hamlet (1599-1601). "To amplify my instrument or not" during live performance is a very important question that should be re-examined under today's technological advances in PA amplification, and the constant demand for "live music". Choosing to amplify your acoustic instrument can give the musician more possibilities of playing live in large or somewhat noisy venues.

Your instrument and the use and placement of the 4099 DPA Core super-cardioid condenser mic are the main factors that will allow you to reproduce during live performance the maximum sound quality at the highest possible volume depending on the circumstances. Eliminating feedback while achieving an accurate and natural sound is the main objective, and we must take into consideration that each venue has its own sound idiosyncrasies (indoor/outdoor, temperature, humidity level, number of guests, etc.).

Here I will give a brief description of the components that make up the PA amplification system: 1) The 4099 DPA Core instrument condenser microphone (the mic is attached to the guitar using a guitar mic clip), 2) The Eventide Mic Pre with FX Loop (this gives power to the microphone) and 3) The Joyo BSK-60 Acoustic Guitar Amplifier which comes with an external footswitch pedal.

The DPA d:vote 4099 condenser mic (with wind screen) reduces distortion or unwanted noise while at the same time delivers the true voice of my acoustic guitar. The versatile gooseneck extender allows you to position the mic in an ideal spot (usually located at the twelfth fret). If you need more information on specs, features, etc. visit the DPA webpage https://www.dpamicrophones.com/instrument/4099-instrument-microphone.

Acoustic Guitar Magazine published a review here  Mic | Acoustic Guitar Review

The Eventide Mic Pre with FX Loop main feature is to supply phantom power for the DPA condenser mic. If you need more information on specs, features, etc. visit the MixingLink webpage https://www.eventideaudio.com/pedals/mixinglink/#features

The Joyo BSK-60 Acoustic Guitar Amplifier is specially designed for acoustic guitar, and if you prefer the true sound of your instrument, turn off treble, middle and bass. It has a chorus, delay and reverb control; I find the reverb adds depth to both indoor and outdoor venues. The footswitch pedal allows you to manipulate the three different sound effects and most importantly, you can mute the sound without having to move.  For a product description visit https://www.joyoaudio.com/product/195.html