Official Luthiers Forum!

Has anyone installed a Fishman 4T under saddle pickup?
It's one of the co-axial types.

I'm having a few problems with one at the present. I know what is causing the lack of volume on the D & G string and how to fix it it but I thought I'd throw it up here in case anyone has seen specific installation instructions.

Any thoughts on routing a rounded saddle slot as per the D-tar Timberlines for this type of pickup.

Cheers

Bob

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Bob Connor
Geelong, Australia

I just installed a Highlander co-axial UST last week. The instructions are very clear & the installation is pretty straight forward.
I made up a simple jig with a piece of plywood, slotted to accommodate the 1/16" round bottom router bit I bought from LMI along with the pickup. The jig has a fence on one side & I simply shimmed it level to the saddle slot & clamped it to the guitar.
I learned (AGAIN) that a Dremel tool is not a router. Before I do this again, I'll get a 1/4" to 1/8" collet adapter for my lam trimmer or small router. My Dremel is just too wimpy to do a super clean job... even with this tiny bit.
I'm not familiar with the Fishman unit, but I assume it would work better with a round bottomed slot.
Highlander recommends a .060" deep slot. Once the string pressure is applied, it seems to compress into the channel. I didn't need to adjust the saddle height at all. I like that!
BTW... The Highlander system is (to my ears) the best UST pickup I have heard to date. I'd be very interested in hearing how the Fishman works out for you.

Yes, recently on an MK 5 String Bass. It apparently wasn't long enough to reach both ends of the five string spread. We could get four working well in either direction.

Solution: We tossed the pickup and put in three mini K and K pickups on the bridge plate, then wired it into the Fishman Onboard Preamp. Worked like a charm.

Probably not helpful in your situation. Those just have to be right to work well. Good luck.

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