SKYSONIC R2 Resonance Pickup Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The SKYSONIC R2 Resonance Pickup is an innovative soundhole pickup system designed for acoustic guitars. It integrates both magnetic and condenser microphone pickups, along with built-in digital effects (Delay, Reverb, Chorus) and a unique resonance speaker. This system allows for amplified and effect-laden sound directly from your guitar's soundhole without requiring an external amplifier, or it can be connected to an amplifier via its endpin jack for traditional output.

Image 1.1: The SKYSONIC R2 Resonance Pickup installed in an acoustic guitar soundhole, showing the control panel and magnetic pickup.

2. Product Overview

The R2 system consists of several key components:

• Pickup Controller: This unit houses the rechargeable lithium battery, condenser microphone, preamp, and all control knobs.
• Magnetic Pickup: Captures string vibrations.
• Resonance Speaker: Integrated within the guitar body, it vibrates to produce effect sounds acoustically.
• Endpin Jack: For connecting to external amplification.

The R2 offers a versatile sound experience, allowing players to add Delay, Reverb, and Chorus effects to their acoustic sound, either through the guitar's natural resonance or via external amplification.

3. Setup

3.1. Installation

The SKYSONIC R2 Resonance Pickup is designed for easy installation into the soundhole of an acoustic guitar. Ensure your guitar's soundhole size is between 90mm and 105mm for proper fitment. Mounting hardware is included with the product.

1. Carefully position the magnetic pickup bar across the soundhole, ensuring it is centered over the strings.
2. Attach the main control unit to the edge of the soundhole using the provided mounting hardware. Ensure it is securely fastened but do not overtighten.
3. Install the endpin jack at the bottom of the guitar, replacing the existing endpin if necessary. Connect the internal wiring from the pickup controller to the endpin jack.
4. Position the resonance speaker inside the guitar body. Its placement can influence the acoustic effect, so experiment to find the optimal position.

3.2. Initial Charging

Before first use, fully charge the internal lithium battery using the supplied USB cable. Refer to Section 5 for detailed charging instructions.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Power On/Off

To power on the unit, press and hold the POWER button on the control panel. The blue LED battery indicators will light up. To power off, press and hold the POWER button again until the LEDs turn off.

4.2. Internal Resonance Speaker Mode

When no cable is plugged into the endpin output jack, the R2 operates in internal resonance speaker mode. In this mode, the magnetic pickup signal is processed through the effects and output via the internal resonance speaker, blending with the guitar's natural acoustic sound. The condenser microphone is not active in this mode.

4.3. External Output Mode

When a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable is plugged into the endpin output jack, the R2 automatically switches to external output mode. In this mode, the sound from the internal resonance speaker is muted. Both the magnetic pickup and the condenser microphone signals are combined, processed through the effects, and sent to the external amplifier or audio system. This allows for traditional amplified performance with added effects.

5. Controls

The control panel on the R2 Resonance Pickup provides access to various settings:

Image 5.1: Close-up view of the SKYSONIC R2 control panel, showing the various knobs and LED indicators.

• VOL (Volume): Controls the overall output volume of the magnetic pickup.
• MIC (Microphone): Adjusts the volume of the condenser microphone. This control is active only in external output mode.
• DELAY: Controls the delay time of the effect. Turn clockwise for longer delay times.
• REVERB: Controls the depth or amount of the reverb effect. Turn clockwise for more reverb.
• CHORUS: Controls the rate of the chorus effect. Turn clockwise for a faster chorus rate.
• PHASE Switch: Toggles the phase of the signal. This can help reduce feedback, especially in amplified settings.
• POWER Button: Press and hold to turn the unit on or off.
• Battery Indicator LEDs: Four blue LEDs indicate the remaining battery charge.

6. Charging

The SKYSONIC R2 features a built-in rechargeable lithium battery. To charge the unit:

1. Connect the supplied USB cable to the charging port on the pickup controller.
2. Connect the other end of the USB cable to a standard USB power adapter (not included) or a computer's USB port.
3. The battery indicator LEDs will show the charging status. Once all four LEDs are steadily lit, the battery is fully charged.

A full charge typically provides 4 to 6 hours of continuous use, though this may vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature.

6.1. Battery Level Indication

When the unit is powered on, the four blue LEDs on the control panel indicate the current battery level. This allows you to monitor the charge and avoid unexpected power loss during use.

7. Maintenance

• Keep the pickup clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to disassemble the unit or modify its components, as this may void the warranty and cause damage.
• When not in use for extended periods, store the unit in a cool, dry place and ensure it is fully charged periodically to maintain battery health.

8. Troubleshooting

• No sound from internal speaker: Check if an output cable is plugged into the endpin jack. If so, the unit is in external output mode, and the internal speaker is intentionally muted. Unplug the cable to activate the internal speaker.
• No sound from external amplifier: Ensure the output cable is securely connected to both the guitar's endpin jack and the amplifier. Check the amplifier's volume and settings. Verify the R2 unit is powered on and has sufficient battery charge.
• Weak or distorted sound: Check battery level and recharge if necessary. Ensure all connections are secure. Adjust the VOL and MIC controls. Try adjusting the PHASE switch.
• Effects not working: Ensure the effect knobs (DELAY, REVERB, CHORUS) are turned up from their minimum settings.
• Feedback issues: Try adjusting the PHASE switch. Reduce the overall volume or the MIC volume. Reposition the guitar relative to the amplifier.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

The SKYSONIC R2 Resonance Pickup comes with a 3-year warranty for genuine imported products. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact your authorized SKYSONIC dealer or the point of purchase. Refer to the included warranty card for specific contact information and terms.

Included Accessories:

• USB Cable
• Mounting Hardware
• Manual (this document)
• Warranty Card