Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Acoustic Pickup (Wide)

Introduction

The Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Acoustic Pickup System is a completely redesigned active, endpin-mounted preamp featuring the world's best-selling undersaddle pickup, the Acoustic Matrix. This system delivers clear, transparent tone, dynamic string response, and ease of installation, optimized for wide saddle slot guitars.

Image: The Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Acoustic Pickup (Wide) installed within the soundhole of an acoustic guitar, showing the pickup element and wiring.

Key Features

• Acoustic Pickup with Soundhole-mounted Controls - Wide Saddle format.
• Completely redesigned active, endpin-mounted preamp for enhanced performance.
• Soundhole-mounted rotary controls for Volume & Tone, allowing easy adjustments.
• Unique Tone control cuts mids while boosting treble and bass for versatile sound shaping.
• Integrated LED low battery indicator for convenient power monitoring.
• Features the world's best-selling undersaddle pickup, the Acoustic Matrix.
• Switchable voicing to accommodate various guitar body sizes and performance situations.
• Solderless connections for simplified installation.

Setup and Installation

Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance and to prevent damage to your instrument. The system is designed for acoustic guitars with a wide 1/8" (3.2mm) saddle slot. The standard overall length of 2.65" (67.3mm) will fit most guitars with string spacings up to 2.5" (63.5mm).

Components Overview:

• Acoustic Matrix Undersaddle Pickup: Installs beneath the saddle in the bridge slot.
• Endpin Preamp: Mounts through the endpin hole of the guitar.
• Soundhole-Mounted Controls: Rotary controls for Volume and Tone, and a voicing switch.
• Battery Bag: Secures the 9V battery (not included) inside the guitar.

Installation Steps (General Guidance):

1. Prepare Saddle Slot: Ensure the saddle slot is clean and flat. The undersaddle pickup requires a flat surface for proper contact and balanced string response.
2. Install Undersaddle Pickup: Carefully place the Acoustic Matrix pickup into the bridge saddle slot. Ensure it is centered and lies flat.
3. Install Endpin Preamp: The endpin jack requires drilling or enlarging the existing endpin hole to 1/2 inch (12.7mm). Secure the preamp assembly.
4. Mount Soundhole Controls: Attach the Volume and Tone rotary controls to the edge of the soundhole using the provided adhesive. Position them for easy access.
5. Connect Components: Utilize the solderless connections to link the undersaddle pickup to the preamp, and the soundhole controls to the preamp.
6. Install Battery: Insert a 9V battery (not included) into the battery bag and secure the bag inside the guitar body, away from vibrating surfaces.
7. Test System: After installation, string the guitar and test the system through an amplifier to ensure all components are functioning correctly.

Operating Instructions

The Matrix Infinity VT system provides intuitive controls for shaping your amplified acoustic tone.

Soundhole-Mounted Controls:

• Volume Control: A rotary knob located inside the soundhole for adjusting the overall output level of the pickup system.
• Tone Control: A unique rotary knob that cuts mids while simultaneously boosting treble and bass. This allows for quick and effective tonal adjustments to suit different playing styles or environments.
• Voicing Switch: A small switch accessible inside the soundhole. This switch allows you to select between two voicings: one optimized for larger body guitars (flatter response) and another with a bass boost for smaller body guitars, adding warmth and fullness.

Low Battery Indicator:

An integrated LED indicator will illuminate when the 9V battery needs to be replaced. This ensures you are aware of low power before it affects your performance.

Maintenance

Battery Replacement:

The Fishman Matrix Infinity VT requires one 9V battery (not included). When the integrated LED low battery indicator illuminates, it is time to replace the battery. To replace:

1. Loosen the guitar strings to access the battery bag inside the soundhole.
2. Carefully detach the battery bag from its secured position.
3. Remove the old 9V battery and insert a new one, ensuring correct polarity.
4. Re-secure the battery bag inside the guitar, ensuring it does not rattle against the guitar body.
5. Tune your guitar and test the system.

Always use fresh, high-quality alkaline 9V batteries for optimal performance and longevity.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Check the 9V battery. Ensure it is fresh and correctly installed. Verify all solderless connections are secure. Confirm the instrument cable is fully inserted into the endpin jack and connected to a powered amplifier or PA system.
• Weak or Distorted Sound: Replace the 9V battery. Check the saddle for proper seating and ensure the undersaddle pickup is making full contact across its length. Adjust the amplifier's input gain.
• Uneven String Volume: This often indicates improper seating of the undersaddle pickup or an uneven saddle. Ensure the pickup is flat in the saddle slot and the saddle is level. Professional inspection may be required.
• Excessive Feedback: Adjust the Volume and Tone controls. Experiment with the voicing switch. Consider using a soundhole feedback suppressor. Ensure your amplifier is not too close to the guitar or pointed directly at it.
• Noise/Hum: Check all connections. Ensure your instrument cable is in good condition. Test with a different cable or amplifier to isolate the source of the noise.

Specifications

What's in the Box

• Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Undersaddle Pickup (Wide)
• Endpin Preamp
• Soundhole-Mounted Volume & Tone Controls
• Battery Bag
• Solderless Connections

Product Videos

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Fishman website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.