LiebeWH Acoustic Guitar Preamp with Tuner 5 Band EQ Piezo Pickup Equalizer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your LiebeWH Acoustic Guitar Preamp with Tuner 5 Band EQ Piezo Pickup Equalizer. This system is designed to electrify and amplify the sound of your acoustic guitar, offering precise sound adjustment capabilities.

2. Product Features

• 5-Band Equalizer: Features Presence, Treble, Middle 2, Middle 1, and Bass controls for comprehensive tone shaping.
• Integrated Digital Tuner: Built-in tuner for convenient and accurate instrument tuning.
• Volume Control: Allows precise adjustment of output loudness.
• Piezo Pickup: Under-saddle pickup system for clear acoustic sound capture.
• Dual Output: Includes both 1/4-inch (HI-Z) and XLR (LOW-Z BAL) output jacks for versatile connectivity.
• Battery Indicator: Low battery indicator for timely power replacement.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:

• Acoustic Guitar Preamp Control Unit (with 5-band EQ and Tuner)
• Combined Output Jack and 9V Battery Compartment
• Under-Saddle Piezo Pickup
• Connecting Wire (pre-wired with 2.5mm plug)
• Mounting Screws
• Cable Tie

Figure 3.1: All components included in the LiebeWH Acoustic Guitar Preamp kit: the main control unit with EQ and tuner, the combined output jack and battery compartment, the under-saddle piezo pickup, connecting wires, mounting screws, and a cable tie.

4. Installation Guide

Installation of this preamp system requires modification to your acoustic guitar. It is recommended that this process be performed by a qualified guitar technician if you are not experienced with instrument modifications. Careful planning and precise cuts are essential for proper fit and function.

4.1 Planning and Measurements

Before making any cuts, carefully measure the dimensions of the preamp control unit and the output jack/battery box. Ensure there is sufficient space within your guitar body for both components and their wiring.

Figure 4.1: Detailed measurements for the main preamp control unit and the separate output jack/battery box, crucial for planning installation cuts into the guitar body.

4.2 Component Placement

1. Preamp Control Unit: Typically installed on the upper bout of the guitar's side. Mark the precise cutout area.
2. Output Jack/Battery Box: Usually installed on the lower bout of the guitar's side, near the endpin. Mark the cutout area.
3. Piezo Pickup: This pickup is designed to be placed under the saddle in the bridge slot. Ensure the saddle slot is clean and flat for optimal contact.

4.3 Cutting and Mounting

1. Carefully cut the openings in the guitar body for the preamp control unit and the output jack/battery box according to your measurements. Ensure the cuts are clean and precise.
2. Mount the preamp control unit into its designated opening using the provided screws.
3. Mount the output jack/battery box into its designated opening using the provided screws.

Figure 4.2: The preamp control unit seamlessly integrated into the side of an acoustic guitar, demonstrating its intended placement.

4.4 Wiring Connections

1. Connect the pre-wired cable from the preamp control unit to the corresponding connector on the output jack/battery box. This connection is typically a 2.5mm plug.
2. Route the piezo pickup wire from the bridge area to the input on the preamp control unit.
3. Secure any loose wiring inside the guitar body using the provided cable tie to prevent rattling.

Figure 4.3: The back of the preamp control unit, displaying the connection point for the main wiring harness.

4.5 Battery Installation

The system requires a 9-volt battery. Open the battery compartment on the output jack unit, insert a fresh 9V battery, and close the compartment securely.

Figure 4.4: The combined 1/4-inch output jack, XLR output, and the open battery compartment for a 9V battery, with the cover removed.

Figure 4.5: An internal perspective of the output jack and battery box, revealing the circuit board and wiring connections.

Figure 4.6: The combined 1/4-inch output jack, XLR output, and the closed battery compartment, ready for installation.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Powering On/Off

The preamp system automatically powers on when a cable is inserted into the 1/4-inch output jack. To conserve battery life, always unplug the cable when not in use.

5.2 Volume Control

The 'VOLUME' knob controls the overall output level of the preamp. Adjust it to achieve the desired loudness without distortion.

5.3 5-Band Equalizer

Use the five slider controls to shape your guitar's tone:

• PRES (Presence): Adjusts the upper mid-range frequencies for clarity and attack.
• TREB (Treble): Controls the high frequencies for brightness.
• MIDD2 (Middle 2): Adjusts a specific mid-range frequency band.
• MIDD1 (Middle 1): Adjusts another specific mid-range frequency band.
• BASS: Controls the low frequencies for warmth and depth.

Each slider offers a boost or cut of up to 12dB.

Figure 5.1: Detailed view of the preamp's control panel, highlighting the volume knob, 5 EQ sliders, and the digital tuner display.

5.4 Digital Tuner Operation

1. Press the 'Digi Tuner' button to activate the tuner. The display will illuminate.
2. Play a single string. The display will show the detected note.
3. Adjust your guitar string until the indicator light shows green, signifying the note is in tune. Red lights indicate flat or sharp.
4. Press the 'Digi Tuner' button again to turn off the tuner.

5.5 Output Connections

• 1/4-inch (HI-Z) Output: Use a standard instrument cable to connect to guitar amplifiers, effects pedals, or audio interfaces.
• XLR (LOW-Z BAL) Output: Use an XLR cable for direct connection to mixing consoles or PA systems, offering a balanced, low-impedance signal.

6. Specifications

7. Troubleshooting

• No Signal from XLR Output: If you are using the XLR output and receive no signal, it is necessary to insert a 'dummy' 1/4-inch plug into the 1/4-inch output jack. This action connects the internal battery circuit, enabling the XLR output. The system is designed to activate the battery connection via the 1/4-inch jack.
• No Sound/Weak Sound:
  • Check battery level. Replace with a fresh 9V battery if the low battery indicator is on or if the sound is weak.
  • Ensure all cables are securely connected.
  • Verify the piezo pickup is correctly seated under the saddle and making good contact.
  • Check amplifier settings and volume levels.
• Distorted Sound:
  • Reduce the 'VOLUME' knob on the preamp.
  • Adjust EQ sliders to avoid excessive boosting of frequencies.
  • Check input gain settings on your amplifier or mixing console.

8. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the preamp unit and output jack with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Battery Replacement: Replace the 9V battery when the low battery indicator illuminates or when sound quality degrades. Always use a fresh, high-quality alkaline battery.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the battery to prevent leakage and damage to the unit. Store the guitar in a stable environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.

9. Warranty and Support

No specific warranty information is provided with the product data. For support or warranty inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly.