1. Product Overview
The Fishman V-200 Classic Series Violin Pickup is designed to accurately amplify the natural sound of your violin. Featuring a piezo-ceramic pickup and a Carpenter-style 1/4" output jack, it offers easy installation with minimal alteration to your instrument. Its lightweight design helps minimize muting, ensuring a clear and vibrant amplified tone.
Image: Close-up of the Fishman V-200 Classic Series Violin Pickup, showing the pickup element and jack.
2. What's in the Box
- Fishman V-200 Piezo-Ceramic Violin Pickup
- Carpenter-style 1/4" Output Jack with Chinrest-style Hardware
- Mounting System
3. Setup and Installation
The V-200 pickup is designed for straightforward installation, typically requiring no permanent alteration to your instrument. However, some minor adjustments to the bridge slot may be necessary for optimal fit.
- Prepare the Bridge: The piezo-ceramic sensor element needs to fit snugly into one of the wing slots of your violin's bridge.
- Identify the wing slot where you wish to install the pickup (e.g., G-string side for richer tone, E-string side for brighter tone).
- If the slot is too tight, carefully widen it using fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 400-grit or 600-grit). Place a thin piece of plastic or metal between the sandpaper and the bridge to ensure a flat sanding surface. Stop frequently to check the fit, ensuring the sensor fits without excessive force.
- Note: If you are uncomfortable performing this step, consult a professional luthier.
- Install the Sensor: Gently slide the piezo-ceramic sensor into the prepared wing slot of the bridge. Ensure it sits firmly and evenly.
- Mount the Output Jack: The Carpenter-style 1/4" output jack mounts on the side of the instrument using chinrest-style hardware.
- Loosen the chinrest hardware on the side of your violin.
- Position the output jack housing securely against the side of the instrument, ensuring it does not interfere with playing or instrument vibration.
- Tighten the chinrest-style hardware to hold the output jack firmly in place. Ensure it is stable but do not overtighten.
- Connect the Pickup: Connect the sensor element to the output jack. The V-200 is designed to be lightweight to minimize muting of the instrument's natural acoustic sound.
For visual guidance on similar pickup installations, please refer to the following video:
Video: Installation guide for The Realist SoundClip Pickup, demonstrating how to attach a pickup to a violin bridge and body. This video is provided by NAVIRA, a seller.
4. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the Fishman V-200 is ready for use. Connect a standard 1/4" instrument cable from the pickup's output jack to your amplifier, mixer, or audio interface.
- Preamp Recommendation: An impedance-matching preamp is recommended for optimal sound quality and to ensure a strong, clear signal, especially when connecting to standard guitar amplifiers or mixing consoles. However, the V-200 can function without a preamp if necessary.
- Volume Control: Adjust the volume directly from your amplifier or mixing console. The V-200 does not feature onboard volume controls.
- Sound Adjustment: Use the EQ controls on your amplifier or preamp to fine-tune the tone to your preference. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired acoustic character.
For a demonstration of a similar pickup in use, please watch the following video:
Video: "The Myers Feather Pickup System. Your Passion. Heard." by Myers Pickups, a seller. This video demonstrates a violin pickup in a studio setting.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the pickup and jack housing with a soft, dry cloth after each use to remove any dust or residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Inspection: Periodically check the mounting hardware for tightness. Ensure the pickup element remains securely seated in the bridge slot.
- Storage: When not in use, store your violin in its case to protect the pickup from accidental damage.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound or low output | Loose cable connection, incorrect amplifier settings, pickup not seated correctly. | Check all cable connections. Ensure amplifier volume is up and input is selected. Verify pickup sensor is firmly in the bridge slot. Consider using a preamp. |
| Distorted or unnatural sound | Over-gained signal, improper EQ settings, faulty cable. | Reduce input gain on amplifier/preamp. Adjust EQ settings. Try a different instrument cable. Ensure the pickup is not too loose or too tight in the bridge slot. |
| Feedback | High volume in close proximity to amplifier, resonant frequencies. | Move further from the amplifier. Reduce overall volume. Use an equalizer to cut problematic frequencies. Consider a feedback suppressor. |
7. Specifications
- Model Number: PROV200VI
- Pickup Type: Piezo-Ceramic
- Output Jack: Carpenter-style 1/4"
- Mounting: Chinrest-style hardware
- Material Type: Ceramic (Top Material), Wood (Back Material)
- Item Weight: 6.72 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 6.75 x 4.75 x 2.5 inches
- Connector Type: 6.35mm Jack
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Fishman website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
You can also visit the Fishman Store on Amazon for more product information and support resources.
