Godin A6 Ultra Natural SG Electro-Acoustic Guitar Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Godin A6 Ultra Natural SG electro-acoustic guitar. The Godin A6 Ultra is a unique instrument featuring a two-chambered body design, combining the best characteristics of acoustic and electric guitars. It is equipped with both an EPM under-saddle transducer and a custom Godin humbucker pickup, offering versatile tone possibilities.

Figure 1: Godin A6 Ultra Natural SG Electro-Acoustic Guitar. This image displays the full body of the guitar, highlighting its natural finish and overall design.

2. Setup

2.1 Initial Inspection

Upon unboxing your Godin A6 Ultra, carefully inspect the instrument for any signs of damage. Ensure all components are present and securely attached. The guitar is designed and set up for immediate playability.

2.2 Stringing the Guitar

The Godin A6 Ultra is typically strung with Phosphor Bronze strings. When replacing strings, ensure proper winding around the tuning pegs to maintain tuning stability. While the guitar can accommodate acoustic strings, using electric guitar strings (such as the recommended .012 - .052 electric jazz gauge) is advised for optimal performance of the humbucker pickup.

2.3 Battery Installation/Replacement

The active electronics of your A6 Ultra require a 9-volt battery. The battery compartment is located on the back of the guitar body.

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the guitar.
2. Gently press the latch or slide the cover to open the compartment.
3. Connect a fresh 9-volt battery to the battery clip, ensuring correct polarity.
4. Place the battery into the compartment. Ensure the battery is seated correctly and the ribbon (if present) is positioned to assist with future removal.
5. Close the compartment cover securely until it clicks into place.

Figure 2: Battery Compartment. This image shows a close-up of the battery compartment on the back of the guitar, illustrating where the 9-volt battery is inserted.

2.4 Truss Rod Adjustment

Your guitar is equipped with a double-action truss rod for neck relief adjustments. Adjustments should only be performed by a qualified guitar technician to prevent damage to the neck.

3. Operation

3.1 Connecting to Amplification

The Godin A6 Ultra features a 1/4 inch (6.35mm) output jack. It offers versatile connectivity options:

• Single Line Out: Using only the top output jack provides a blended signal of both the under-saddle transducer and the humbucker pickup.
• Split Output: Using both output jacks allows you to send the under-saddle transducer signal to one amplifier (e.g., an acoustic amplifier) and the humbucker signal to another (e.g., an electric guitar amplifier). This provides maximum tonal flexibility.

3.2 Controls and Tone Shaping

The A6 Ultra is equipped with controls to blend and shape the tones from its two distinct pickup systems:

• Under-Saddle Transducer Controls: These typically include volume and a three-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble) to sculpt the acoustic-like tones.
• Custom Godin Humbucker Controls: These usually consist of volume and a two-band EQ (Bass, Treble) for the electric guitar tones.

Experiment with the individual volume controls and EQ settings to achieve your desired blended sound. When using split outputs, adjust each amplifier and the guitar's controls independently for optimal results.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

Regularly wipe down your guitar with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. For a deeper clean, use guitar-specific cleaning products. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.

4.2 String Replacement

Replace strings regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability. Refer to section 2.2 for string type recommendations.

4.3 Environmental Care

Store your guitar in a stable environment, avoiding extreme changes in temperature and humidity, which can affect the wood and overall structural integrity. A good quality gig bag or hardshell case is recommended for protection.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Sound or Weak Signal

• Check Battery: Ensure the 9-volt battery is fresh and correctly installed in its compartment. A dying battery can cause a weak or distorted signal.
• Cable Connection: Verify that your instrument cable is securely plugged into both the guitar and the amplifier. Try a different cable to rule out a faulty one.
• Amplifier Settings: Confirm your amplifier is turned on, volume is up, and correct input is selected.
• Pickup Selector/Volume: Ensure the guitar's volume controls are not set to zero and that the pickup blend is adjusted as desired.

5.2 Uneven String Volume (Piezo Pickup)

• Saddle Seating: An uneven or weak signal from individual strings, particularly with the piezo pickup, can indicate that the bridge saddle is not properly seated. This may require professional adjustment.
• String Gauge: Ensure consistent string gauge across all strings, as variations can affect pickup response.

5.3 Tuning Instability

• New Strings: New strings require stretching before they hold tune consistently.
• Tuning Machines: Ensure tuning machines are functioning correctly. If they feel loose or slip, they may need adjustment or replacement.
• Nut and Bridge: Friction at the nut or bridge saddles can cause tuning issues. Lubrication or professional setup may be required.

5.4 Unwanted Noise/Hum

• Grounding Issues: Check all connections. If hum persists, it might indicate a grounding issue within the guitar's electronics or your amplification system.
• External Interference: Try moving away from electronic devices, fluorescent lights, or power sources that might cause interference.
• Internal Debris: Occasionally, debris (like a broken string end) can short out electronics. If you suspect this, professional inspection is recommended.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

Your Godin A6 Ultra guitar comes with a Limited lifetime warranty on workmanship and a 1-year warranty on electronics.

For warranty claims, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Godin customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.

Note: Warranty terms are subject to change. Please refer to the official Godin website or your purchase documentation for the most current and detailed warranty information.