Fishman PowerTap Infinity: Revolutionizing Acoustic Guitar Tone

by Jhon Lennon 64 views

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the world of acoustic guitar amplification and effects? Today, we're checking out the Fishman PowerTap Infinity, a game-changing system that's taking the acoustic scene by storm. If you're an acoustic guitarist looking to elevate your sound, add some versatility, and get that professional edge, then you've come to the right place. This deep dive will cover everything you need to know about this awesome piece of kit, from its features and benefits to how it can transform your playing experience. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What is the Fishman PowerTap Infinity?

At its core, the Fishman PowerTap Infinity is a sophisticated pickup and preamp system designed specifically for acoustic guitars. But it's so much more than just a pickup; it’s a complete tonal solution that integrates seamlessly into your instrument. The system combines a high-quality magnetic soundhole pickup with a unique body sensor, giving you the best of both worlds: the clarity and articulation of a magnetic pickup with the warmth and resonance of a body sensor. This fusion creates a rich, full, and incredibly natural acoustic sound that truly captures the essence of your guitar. What sets the PowerTap Infinity apart is its intelligent design and advanced technology. It not only amplifies your guitar but also allows you to blend the signals from the magnetic pickup and the body sensor to sculpt your ideal tone. Whether you prefer a bright, crisp sound for fingerpicking or a warm, woody tone for strumming, the PowerTap Infinity gives you the control to achieve it. Furthermore, the system includes onboard controls for volume, tone, and a phase switch, providing even more flexibility and convenience. Imagine being able to adjust your sound on the fly, right from your guitar, without having to reach for an external preamp or EQ pedal. This is the kind of freedom and control that the Fishman PowerTap Infinity offers. The PowerTap Infinity is designed for easy installation, making it a popular choice among both professional luthiers and DIY enthusiasts. With its solder-free connections and user-friendly design, you can have it up and running in no time, transforming your acoustic guitar into a stage-ready powerhouse.

Key Features and Benefits

The Fishman PowerTap Infinity is packed with features that make it a standout choice for acoustic guitarists. Let's break down some of the key highlights:

  • Blendable Pickup System: The combination of a magnetic soundhole pickup and a body sensor allows you to blend the two signals to create your perfect tone. This versatility is unmatched and lets you dial in a wide range of sounds to suit any playing style or musical genre.
  • Onboard Controls: With volume, tone, and phase controls right at your fingertips, you can make adjustments on the fly without needing external devices. This is incredibly convenient for live performances and recording sessions.
  • Feedback Control: The phase switch helps to eliminate feedback, ensuring a clean and clear sound even at high volumes. This is a lifesaver for stage performances where feedback can be a major issue.
  • Easy Installation: The solder-free connections and user-friendly design make installation a breeze. Whether you're a professional luthier or a DIY enthusiast, you'll appreciate how easy it is to get the PowerTap Infinity up and running.
  • Natural Sound: The system is designed to capture the natural sound of your acoustic guitar, preserving its unique character and tone. This ensures that your amplified sound is as authentic and true to life as possible.
  • Low Noise: The PowerTap Infinity is engineered for low noise operation, ensuring a clean and quiet signal. This is essential for recording and performing, where unwanted noise can be a major distraction.

The benefits of using the Fishman PowerTap Infinity are numerous. Firstly, it enhances the sound of your acoustic guitar, making it sound richer, fuller, and more vibrant. Secondly, it gives you greater control over your tone, allowing you to tailor your sound to your specific needs. Thirdly, it eliminates feedback, ensuring a clean and clear sound even at high volumes. Fourthly, it's easy to install and use, making it a convenient and hassle-free solution. Finally, it's a reliable and durable system that will last for years to come, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious acoustic guitarist. With all these features and benefits, it's no wonder that the Fishman PowerTap Infinity is a popular choice among professional musicians and hobbyists alike. It's a versatile, reliable, and high-quality system that will take your acoustic guitar playing to the next level.

Installation Guide

Alright, so you're ready to install the Fishman PowerTap Infinity? Awesome! Don't worry, it's not as daunting as it might seem. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

  1. Gather Your Tools: Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools. You'll need a screwdriver, a wrench, and possibly a drill (if your guitar doesn't already have an endpin jack). Also, have a soft cloth handy to protect your guitar's finish.
  2. Remove the Strings: Loosen and remove the strings from your guitar. This will give you plenty of room to work and prevent any accidental damage to the strings.
  3. Install the Endpin Jack: If your guitar doesn't already have an endpin jack, you'll need to drill a hole for it. Use a drill bit that's the correct size for the endpin jack, and be careful not to damage the surrounding wood. Once the hole is drilled, install the endpin jack and tighten it securely.
  4. Mount the Magnetic Pickup: The magnetic pickup mounts in the soundhole of your guitar. Simply slide it into place and adjust its position until it's centered and secure. Make sure it's not too close to the strings, as this can cause unwanted buzzing.
  5. Attach the Body Sensor: The body sensor attaches to the inside of your guitar's body using adhesive. Choose a spot that's close to the bridge and free from any obstructions. Clean the area with a soft cloth before attaching the sensor to ensure a good bond.
  6. Connect the Wiring: The PowerTap Infinity uses solder-free connections, so you won't need a soldering iron. Simply plug the wires into the appropriate connectors, following the instructions in the manual. Make sure all the connections are secure and properly aligned.
  7. Install the Controls: The volume, tone, and phase controls mount in the soundhole of your guitar. Use the included hardware to attach them securely, making sure they're within easy reach.
  8. Reinstall the Strings: Once everything is connected and secured, reinstall the strings on your guitar. Tune them up to pitch and check the sound of the PowerTap Infinity.
  9. Adjust the Settings: Use the volume, tone, and phase controls to adjust the sound of the PowerTap Infinity to your liking. Experiment with different settings until you find the perfect tone for your playing style.

Remember to consult the Fishman PowerTap Infinity manual for detailed instructions and diagrams. If you're not comfortable performing the installation yourself, it's always a good idea to take your guitar to a professional luthier. They'll be able to install the system quickly and safely, ensuring that it's properly set up and optimized for your guitar. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll have your PowerTap Infinity up and running in no time, transforming your acoustic guitar into a stage-ready powerhouse.

Sound Quality and Performance

When it comes to sound quality and performance, the Fishman PowerTap Infinity truly shines. The combination of a magnetic soundhole pickup and a body sensor creates a rich, full, and incredibly natural acoustic sound that captures the essence of your guitar. Whether you're fingerpicking, strumming, or playing lead lines, the PowerTap Infinity delivers a clear, articulate, and dynamic sound that will impress even the most discerning listeners. The blendable pickup system allows you to dial in a wide range of tones to suit any playing style or musical genre. If you prefer a bright, crisp sound for fingerpicking, you can emphasize the magnetic pickup. If you prefer a warm, woody tone for strumming, you can emphasize the body sensor. And if you want a balanced sound that's perfect for both, you can blend the two signals to create your ideal tone. The onboard controls for volume, tone, and phase provide even more flexibility and control. You can adjust the volume to match your playing level, tweak the tone to shape your sound, and use the phase switch to eliminate feedback. This is incredibly convenient for live performances and recording sessions, where you need to be able to make adjustments on the fly. The PowerTap Infinity is also designed for low noise operation, ensuring a clean and quiet signal. This is essential for recording and performing, where unwanted noise can be a major distraction. The system is engineered to minimize hum, buzz, and other types of interference, so you can focus on your playing without worrying about technical issues. In terms of performance, the Fishman PowerTap Infinity is a reliable and durable system that will last for years to come. The components are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of live performance and studio recording. The system is also backed by Fishman's excellent customer support, so you can be confident that you're getting a product that's built to last. Overall, the Fishman PowerTap Infinity is a top-notch pickup system that delivers exceptional sound quality and performance. Whether you're a professional musician or a hobbyist, you'll appreciate the versatility, reliability, and high-quality sound of this awesome piece of kit.

Compared to Competitors

When you're shopping for an acoustic guitar pickup system, it's important to consider your options and compare different products to find the best fit for your needs. The Fishman PowerTap Infinity has some serious competition, but it holds its own in several key areas. Let's take a look at how it stacks up against some of the other popular options on the market.

  • LR Baggs Anthem: The LR Baggs Anthem is another popular pickup system that combines a microphone with a pickup. While the Anthem is known for its natural sound, it can be more prone to feedback than the PowerTap Infinity. The PowerTap Infinity's phase switch provides better feedback control, making it a better choice for high-volume situations.
  • Seymour Duncan Woody HC: The Seymour Duncan Woody HC is a magnetic soundhole pickup that's known for its warm, vintage tone. However, it lacks the versatility of the PowerTap Infinity, which combines a magnetic pickup with a body sensor. The PowerTap Infinity offers a wider range of tonal options, making it a better choice for players who want more flexibility.
  • K&K Pure Mini: The K&K Pure Mini is a popular option for players who want a simple, passive pickup system. While the Pure Mini is known for its natural sound, it lacks the features and control of the PowerTap Infinity. The PowerTap Infinity offers onboard controls for volume, tone, and phase, as well as a blendable pickup system, giving you more control over your sound.
  • Fishman Rare Earth Blend: The Fishman Rare Earth Blend is another pickup system from Fishman that combines a magnetic pickup with a microphone. While the Rare Earth Blend is known for its rich, full sound, it can be more expensive than the PowerTap Infinity. The PowerTap Infinity offers similar features and performance at a more affordable price point.

Ultimately, the best pickup system for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, the Fishman PowerTap Infinity offers a compelling combination of versatility, performance, and value that makes it a top contender in the acoustic guitar pickup market. With its blendable pickup system, onboard controls, feedback control, and easy installation, the PowerTap Infinity is a versatile and reliable choice for any acoustic guitarist.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! The Fishman PowerTap Infinity is a fantastic piece of gear that can seriously upgrade your acoustic guitar game. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this system offers a blend of versatility, quality, and ease of use that's hard to beat. From its blendable pickup system to its onboard controls and easy installation, the PowerTap Infinity has everything you need to take your acoustic guitar playing to the next level. It's a worthwhile investment that will pay off in spades, giving you a sound that's both authentic and inspiring. If you're looking for a pickup system that can do it all, the Fishman PowerTap Infinity is definitely worth considering. Trust me, your ears (and your audience) will thank you!