Fishman Aura Spectrum DI & Guitar Preamp  

This product works as advertised. It changes the sonic footprint of the guitar output before it reaches your amp. I found it very easy to use right out of the box, and I was fairly easily able to figure out how to download images from the manufacturer's website to add to the "user" bank of sounds. Not much detail of documentation provided, but I was able to deduce, with a little trial and error, how to store sounds in the provided software, and then load 16 at a time into the device's preset bank. It is VERY easy to use once plugged in and hooked up. You can easily adjust the mix between the guitar pick and the output of  the Preamp, plus you have a simple compressor, EQ, feedback buster, and even a tuner thrown in for good measure (although the tuner does not appear to be exceptionally sensitive).

To my surprise, MANY of the settings complimented my guitars and resophonic, even when using settings that did not closely match my actual instruments. The differences were sometimes subtle, sometimes not so subtle. I heard more difference with the mic changes than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise. (I was afraid my ordinary old ears wouldn't be able to distinguish any difference) Often one setting was quite different from another, but yet they both sounded good. If a particular setting did not sound good with my particular instrument, no problem. I just spun the dial or moved to another bank of "images" until I soon found something else that sounded great.

The sound quality is great, which is what is most important to me. However, it is a plus that it is of solid metal construction and appears to be sturdy. It is also quite attractive in appearance, very well-crafted, and not junky or tacky looking. The controls are all easy to read.

I was concerned that I might be paying too much for this device, having to go only by the company's hype and a few reviews before purchasing. However, I love this thing, the item is well worth the purchase price in my opinion.

The closest thing I have to a  "dislike" is that they could've provided more detail in the software help menu. That would've saved me a bit of time when I first tried to download images. However, once I figured it out, it was quite easy so...it is of little consequence. I think this is an outstanding product.

This device is totally feature rich.  I'm still trying to figure out how everything works, and, I'm still discovering new stuff. 

Built like a tank.  It should last for years.

Bit pricey, but, price depends upon your application and what you want this device to do.

Would have loved to have given this device a ten, but.....  You really need to research this device before you buy it. Optimum results are obtained ONLY when you use the Fishman undersaddle Matrix pickup.  I have a Western Mini in a D-35 that works OK in that I can get a respectible sound, but not great.  I have 2 Taylors with the Expression Systems and you have to disable the sound board pickups to feed the signal into this device.  Again, disapointing twaingy results, but, it will work. I play a D-45 through a mic. Unfortunately, you can't run a mic through this box.  On the other hand, my buddy has a Gibson Songwriter with the correct Fishman pickup and it sounds fantastic.  

coolest preamp i've ever seen for acoustic instruments.  soundmen are gonna freak when you send them this signal. 

i would say a little expensive, but i would pay it.  i don't think the price is reasonable for new guitarists yet, but i think it's just about worth every penny. 

i think there are a few people that are confused about the functionality of this pedal.  it's not a modeler.  what this thing does is enhance the sound of your instrument.  if you have a 12 string, it will make your 12 string sound so much more natural by using the 12 string settings. it won't make a 6 string sound like a 12 string.  it doesn't work that way.  i just purchased a martin guitar equipped with the aura technology and couldn't be happier.  all my friends are tying to figure out why my instrument sounds so great.  if a modeler is what you are looking for, i would recommend checking out a line6 unit of some sort, but this pedal sure made it easy to get that "sound" of why you bought the instrument in the first place.  it adds that fullness back to those thin twangy sounding piezzo pickups. 

The Aura Spectrum is an essential tool for any acoustic guitarist, who likes the sound of a mic'd instrument, without having to stay in one spot.

The Aura's anti-feedback feature is a lifesaver and the controls are easy to use.(a colored dot on the knobs would make the levels easier to see at a glance). The amount of volume you get without feedback, when you first plug it in, will impress you. And it has built in tuner!

The Aura also can be connected to your computer,via USB (cable included)so you can choose from a data base of guitar brands like Gibson, Martin etc.and microphones like Neumann and Shure.The selection for resonator guitars is lacking. No Nationals are listed. I'm hoping Fishman will remedy this problem.

You can also  use the factory pre-sets, if you don't own a computer. There are quite a few and they sound great! I use mine mainly plugged into a P.A.,but it works great in an amp,also.

The Fishman Aura Spectrum DI uses one nine volt battery, which lasts for 20 hours or you can buy an optional ac adapter.

The Aura Spectrum is housed in an aluminum box, with aluminum knobs and is built for the road.

I like the way the battery fits with NO cheesy clips and wires that break when you try to jam it in a too small compartment.

A little pricey for the working musician, but you get what you pay for in this case.

It's built very well. It sounds awesome and looks cool.It just needs some Nationals in the data base.

Trying to find that perfect sound for your acoustic guitar can be frustrating.   I went to a Ricky Skaggs concert and Ricky was using the Aura Spectrum when he played guitar.  Yes Ricky normally plays mandolin, but also does a few acoustic tunes.  After hearing his guitar, I walked up to the stage to see what he was running his guitar through.  Sure thing.....it was an Aura Spectrum...and it sounded great.  I had to have one for myself and have not looked back.  You gotta get one.

Well Built

The good stuff always cost more

simply put, it'll make your guitar sound yummy