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PRESS RELEASE
Optical Pickups Coming for Guitar and Bass
March 28, 2000
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LightWave Systems has developed a bridge-mounted, optical pickup that emits beams of infrared light to convert string motion into an electrical signal. The transducer accurately senses the strings' vibrations because there is no magnetic interference or dampening effect on the strings. In fact, the optical system is transparent, in that it doesn’t color the actual sound of the strings, the wood, or the instrument. Rather, the optical system faithfully reproduces each string’s full harmonic content and accurately reflects each instrument’s inherent qualities. The pickup is integrated into the guitar bridge assembly just forward of the string saddle. This is the most harmonically-rich point of a tensioned string. In contrast, magnetic pickups are usually located at points under the strings with specific, but limited harmonic content. The LightWave Pickup system equips each string with its own pickup and independent gain. The system also features iceTone, a patented high-quality piezo for enhanced dimension and attack. Without the crosstalk common with other pickups systems, each note played in unison is heard with unprecedented chordal depth and clarity. The pickup’s analog technology delivers deep, undistorted response beyond the lowest notes of the bass. Optical pickups are capable of reproducing signals down to DC. The output from the system allows frequencies well below the staff, down below 8 Hz, to be reproduced. Since other pickups can’t reach these lower frequencies, the true fundamental now can be heard. Optical pickup technology functions flawlessly without regard to string composition. The ability to use non-ferrous materials, including brass, copper, and other alloys, as well as composites, allows players to experiment with multiple tonalities. With many prototypes in process with bass guitar manufacturers, LightWave will be initially selling its transducer directly to guitar manufacturers. Presently, players can purchase the system on Zon Guitar’s Sonus-LightWave model, with many manufacturers on the horizon. An optical pickup system for the electro-acoustic guitar will be ready by August 2000. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.libertyguitars.com/.Recent LightWave Systems headlines
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