Choosing a supplier for any component or raw material is a serious decision for us. Like any good relationship, trust is the key element for success. We can’t go to the lengths we go to in guitar design and building if other parts that we don’t make negatively impact the experience of owning an Alvarez. So, whether it’s sourcing spruce, electronics, or paint, we chose our partner suppliers very carefully.
There are several great pickup and EQ manufacturers, and some guitar companies do a good job designing their own. But after extensive testing, we decided to go with the LR Baggs StapePro Element and VTC Element.
Stagepro Element
Side mounted preamp system.
The StagePro Element is a side-mounted preamp/EQ that offers battery access and a full chromatic tuner that is hidden beneath the control panel to maintain a clean, classy look. The three band EQ with phase inversion and Garrett Null notch filter controls deliver warm, pristine sound even under the most challenging conditions. The system includes the Element pickup and pre-wired strap jack.
Element Pickup
Advanced Undersaddle Pickup with Unrivalled Dynamic Range.
Unlike common undersaddle pickups that are dependent on string compression for their sound, the Element Pickup was engineered to mirror the soundboard’s actual movement as you play for enhanced acoustic reproduction. At the heart of the pickup, a flexible film sensor only two thousandths of an inch thick picks up the guitar’s most delicate nuances.
Tracking the motion of the top rather than a direct string attack suppresses ‘quack’ caused by compression and unlocks the Element’s unrivaled dynamic range. The pickup’s minimalist construction lessens any influence on the acoustic properties and creates an intimate coupling between the pickup and guitar for the highest fidelity possible.
Element VTC
Volume, tone and compression.
The Element VTC’s all discrete, Class A endpin pre-amp leverages studio grade analog electronics for superior warmth and natural balance of tone. In addition, the circuitry is enhanced by a proprietary compressor tuned to reflect the natural dynamics of the acoustic guitar making the Element VTC the most organic and musically uplifting undersaddle system ever created.
Alvarez SYS250
We’re really happy to feature this great EQ and pick up in our Regent Series guitars. The SYS250 delivers superb performance and acoustic reproduction as well as a fully chromatic, precision tuner with backlit LCD screen and a 4-band EQ.
Just like guitars, there are an unlimited range of amps on the market, all with specific strengths and attributes. Our Acoustic Electrics will work with all of them, but there are some questions you should consider when choosing an amp. How much volume do you need? How much mobility would you prefer? Do you want effects on your amplifier? Do some research and discover the amp that is right for you. We can assure you our LR Baggs system will function well with whichever amp you decide.
Cables come in many different options. For players on a budget, any ¼” cable will work, but spending more money on the same cable with different, higher-end materials – some believe – can improve sound. Our LR Baggs system use ¼” cables.
Our LR Baggs system is equipped with a full chromatic tuner. Simply press the tuner button and pluck a string. Sound going to the mixer or amplifier is interrupted and the nearest note is displayed, with sharp and flat LEDs guiding you to the perfect tonal degree. Press the tuning button again when you are finished to resume playing through an amp or mixer.
Your EQ system is covered for 2 years from the date of original purchase. The warranty will cover you in that time period if rare defects in the production or assembly are causing problems, but for all other damages our guitar shop can handle your repairs at a very competitive pricing. Contact them here.
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