Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your LR Baggs StagePro Onboard Guitar Pickup System with Element Pickup. This system is designed to provide high-quality amplified sound for acoustic guitars, featuring a Class A preamp/EQ and a built-in chromatic tuner.
Product Features
- StagePro Side-mount Preamp/EQ with Tuner
- Includes Element Undersaddle Pickup
- Volume, Bass, Mid, and Treble Controls
- Notch Filter and Phase Inversion for feedback control
- Pure Class A Discrete Circuitry for rich, warm analog sound
Components Overview
The LR Baggs StagePro system consists of two primary components: the StagePro preamp unit and the Element undersaddle pickup.
Figure 1: StagePro Preamp Unit. This image displays the black StagePro preamp unit with its various controls including volume, EQ sliders (bass, mid, treble), notch filter, phase switch, and built-in tuner display.
Figure 2: Element Undersaddle Pickup. This image shows the thin, braided Element undersaddle pickup cable with a 6.35mm jack connector at one end, designed to be placed under the guitar's saddle.
Setup and Installation
Installation of the LR Baggs StagePro system involves modifying your acoustic guitar. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified guitar technician to ensure proper fit and optimal performance. Incorrect installation can damage your instrument or the pickup system.
Battery Installation
- Locate the top-mounted click-lock battery compartment on the StagePro preamp unit.
- Press the release tab or slide the cover to open the compartment.
- Insert a single 9-volt battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the compartment securely until it clicks into place.
The system operates on a single 9V battery. Battery life is approximately 100+ hours under normal use. Replace the battery when the 'bat' indicator light illuminates.
Operating Instructions
The StagePro preamp provides comprehensive control over your guitar's amplified tone.
Controls Overview
- Volume (Vol): Adjusts the overall output level of the system.
- Bass: Controls the low-frequency response of your guitar's tone. Adjust to add warmth or reduce muddiness.
- Mid: Controls the mid-frequency response. Adjust to shape the guitar's presence and cut through a mix.
- Treble (Treb): Controls the high-frequency response. Adjust to add sparkle or reduce harshness.
- Notch Filter: A sweepable filter designed to eliminate feedback. Turn the knob to find and cut the problematic frequency. The range is off to 320Hz.
- Phase Inversion (Phase): A switch that inverts the phase of the signal. This can help reduce feedback, especially when playing at high volumes or with a soundhole microphone.
- Tuner (Tune): Activates the built-in chromatic tuner. Press the button to engage. The display will show the note being played. The output is muted when the tuner is active.
Maintenance
Battery Replacement
Regularly check the battery indicator. When the 'bat' light illuminates, replace the 9-volt battery as described in the 'Setup and Installation' section to ensure optimal performance and prevent unexpected power loss during use.
Cleaning
Wipe the preamp unit with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish or electronic components. Ensure no moisture enters the unit.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output | Dead battery; Tuner engaged; Cable not connected; Volume knob turned down. | Replace battery; Disengage tuner; Check all cable connections; Increase volume. |
| Feedback | High volume; Resonant frequencies; Proximity to amplifier. | Engage Notch Filter and sweep to find problematic frequency; Try Phase Inversion switch; Reduce volume; Move away from amplifier. |
| Distorted sound | Input signal too hot; EQ settings extreme; Low battery. | Reduce guitar's output (if applicable) or preamp volume; Adjust EQ settings to a more neutral position; Replace battery. |
| Tuner not working | Low battery; Faulty unit. | Replace battery; If problem persists, contact support. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Preamp Dimensions | 3.5" L x 2.8" W x 2.2" D |
| Preamp Hole Size (Cutout) | 1.80" W x 2.80" L |
| Preamp Screw Spacing | 1.882" W x 2.925" L |
| Weight (including battery) | 5.6 oz (0.35 lbs) |
| Battery Type | Single 9V |
| Current Consumption (Preamp) | 4.5mA |
| Current Consumption (Tuner) | 14mA |
| Battery Life | 100+ hours |
| Bass EQ | +/- 9dB @ 80 Hz |
| Mid EQ | +5/-9dB @ 1 kHz |
| Treble EQ | +/- 12 dB unweighted |
| Input Impedance | 10 Megohms |
| Output Impedance | 620 Ohms |
| Notch Filter | Sweepable (off to 320Hz), 1/8 octave, fixed -21 dB |
| Compatible Devices | Acoustic Guitar |
| Connector Type | 6.35mm (1/4 inch) Jack |
Support
For further assistance, technical support, or warranty information, please visit the official LR Baggs website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt for any warranty claims.