Fender Kingman V2 4-String Acoustic Bass Guitar User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Fender Kingman V2 4-String Acoustic Bass Guitar. The Kingman V2 is designed with an X-braced solid spruce top and sapele back and sides, offering a deep, punchy, and articulate tone. It features a cutaway for upper fret access and a Fishman Presys+ preamp system for amplified sound control.

Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize the lifespan of your instrument.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Fender Kingman V2 Acoustic Bass Guitar, showcasing its shaded edge burst finish, soundhole, bridge, and headstock with four tuning machines.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking

• Carefully remove the bass guitar from its packaging.
• Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. If damage is found, contact your retailer immediately.
• Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.

2.2 Tuning

The Kingman V2 is equipped with a Fishman Presys+ preamp system that includes a built-in tuner. To tune your bass:

1. Press the 'Tuner' button on the preamp to activate the tuner. The display will illuminate.
2. Pluck each string individually. The display will show the note being played and indicate if it is sharp, flat, or in tune.
3. Adjust the tuning machines on the headstock until each string is accurately tuned. The standard tuning for a 4-string bass is E-A-D-G (from thickest to thinnest string).
4. Press the 'Tuner' button again to deactivate the tuner.

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Kingman V2 headstock, showing the Fender logo, Kingman model name, and four chrome tuning machines.

2.3 Connecting to an Amplifier

To amplify your bass, connect a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable from the output jack on the lower bout of the bass to your amplifier or PA system. Ensure your amplifier is turned off or at a low volume before connecting or disconnecting the cable.

Figure 2.2: Close-up of the Fishman Presys+ preamp system, located on the upper side of the bass body, featuring controls for volume, EQ, and a built-in tuner.

3. Operating

3.1 Playing Techniques

The Kingman V2 features a slim 'C'-shaped Jazz Bass profile neck with a short 30" scale length, designed for comfortable playability. Experiment with various playing techniques such as fingerstyle, picking, and slapping to discover the instrument's tonal versatility.

3.2 Using the Fishman Presys+ Preamp

The Fishman Presys+ preamp system provides comprehensive control over your amplified tone. Familiarize yourself with the following controls:

• Volume: Controls the overall output level of the amplified signal.
• Bass: Adjusts the low-frequency response. Turn clockwise for more bass, counter-clockwise for less.
• Middle: Adjusts the mid-range frequency response. This control significantly impacts the presence and clarity of your tone.
• Treble: Adjusts the high-frequency response. Turn clockwise for more brightness, counter-clockwise for a warmer tone.
• Notch: A feedback suppression control. Adjust this to eliminate resonant feedback frequencies when playing at high volumes.
• Brilliance: Adds a high-frequency boost for extra sparkle and definition.
• Phase: Reverses the phase of the output signal. This can help reduce feedback, especially when playing through a PA system or with other instruments.
• Tuner: Activates the built-in chromatic tuner.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

• Body: Wipe the body with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat and fingerprints. For deeper cleaning, use a guitar-specific polish sparingly.
• Fretboard: Periodically clean the walnut fretboard with a specialized fretboard cleaner and conditioner to prevent drying and cracking.
• Strings: Wipe down the strings after each playing session to prolong their life and maintain tone.

4.2 Storage

Store your Kingman V2 in its deluxe gig bag when not in use to protect it from dust, humidity fluctuations, and physical damage. Avoid exposing the instrument to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

4.3 String Replacement

Strings should be replaced regularly, depending on playing frequency and personal preference. Old strings can lose their brightness and intonation. When replacing strings, change them one at a time to maintain neck tension. Use 4-string acoustic bass guitar strings, typically bronze or phosphor bronze for optimal acoustic tone.

5. Troubleshooting

• No Sound When Amplified:
  • Check if the instrument cable is securely connected to both the bass and the amplifier.
  • Ensure the amplifier is turned on and its volume is not at zero.
  • Verify the volume control on the Fishman preamp is turned up.
  • Check the battery in the Fishman preamp. A low battery can cause weak or no signal.
• Poor Tone or Buzzing:
  • Adjust the Bass, Middle, and Treble controls on the preamp.
  • Check for worn or old strings; replace if necessary.
  • Ensure proper tuning.
  • If buzzing persists, consult a qualified guitar technician for neck relief or action adjustments.
• Feedback Issues:
  • Utilize the 'Notch' and 'Phase' controls on the Fishman preamp to reduce feedback.
  • Reduce amplifier volume or move further away from the amplifier.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty & Support

7.1 Limited Warranty

Fender warrants this Fender acoustic guitar to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for two (2) years from the original date of purchase. This limited warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is not transferable. For full warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Fender warranty documentation or visit the Fender website.

7.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or warranty claims, please contact Fender Customer Support through their official website or authorized service centers. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.

Visit Fender Support for more information.