fet preamp

Description: The PZP-1 Piezo Buffer is now available. It is a high-impedance buffer preamp that utilizes 100% discrete class-A circuitry. Specifically designed for the Fender Precision acoustic/electric and HMT basses, it can also enhance the performance of other instruments equipped with piezoelectric pickups. Contrary to the common perception that piezo pickups produce a "clacky," weak, and overly treble sound, the PZP-1 allows the Fender piezo pickup to deliver deep bass while effectively capturing the warm tonal qualities of semihollow-bodied instruments. The PZP-1 originated from an effort to improve the sound of a personal Fender A/E bass, which was the second bass owned. Initially, the piezo bridge pickup was found to be inadequate on its own due to the electronics being designed for two magnetic pickups instead of a combination of magnetic and piezo. After experimentation and circuit development, the design was refined and shared online for other enthusiasts. Demand for a ready-made version led to the production of the PZP-1. It is important to note that while other versions of piezo buffers exist, the current iteration boasts lower distortion, reduced noise, and improved capability to drive low impedances. All versions of the circuit are in the public domain and can be freely copied. The PZP-1 is designed to fit inside the bass and utilizes the same battery as the existing electronics, necessitating some soldering for installation, similar to other aftermarket preamps or pickups. For instruments without active electronics, a version with a single battery clip is available, and it can also be mounted in a mint tin for external use. The PZP-1 is handmade in limited quantities and is priced at $49, including shipping within the United States; international shipping incurs an additional fee. Payment can be made via PayPal, money order, or cashier's checks. For further information or to purchase, inquiries can be directed to the provided email address.

The PZP-1 Piezo Buffer is a sophisticated electronic device designed to enhance the audio output of instruments with piezoelectric pickups, specifically targeting bass guitars like the Fender Precision acoustic/electric and HMT models. The buffer operates on a high-impedance principle, which is critical for preserving the integrity of the signal generated by piezo pickups, known for their sensitivity to vibrations.

The circuit employs discrete class-A components, which are renowned for their linearity and low distortion characteristics. This ensures that the sound produced is not only rich in bass frequencies but also maintains the natural acoustic qualities of the instrument. The design addresses common issues associated with piezo pickups, such as unwanted treble emphasis and a lack of depth in the sound profile.

The evolution of the PZP-1's design stemmed from practical experimentation. The original user experience highlighted the inadequacies of the stock electronics in handling the unique characteristics of piezo pickups. The transition from a dual magnetic pickup configuration to one that accommodates both magnetic and piezo signals necessitated a redesign of the electronic circuitry, leading to the development of the PZP-1.

Installation of the PZP-1 requires basic soldering skills, as it integrates with the existing electronics of the instrument. The design allows it to share power with the original battery, simplifying the installation process while ensuring compatibility. Additionally, the option to use a single battery clip version broadens its applicability to instruments lacking any active electronics.

The PZP-1 is produced in small quantities, ensuring quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. It is competitively priced, and its availability through direct sales channels facilitates customer engagement and support. Overall, the PZP-1 Piezo Buffer represents a significant advancement in the realm of acoustic/electric bass enhancement, offering musicians a reliable solution for achieving superior sound quality from their instruments.The PZP-1 Piezo Buffer is now available! The PZP-1 is a high impedance buffer preamp, using 100% discrete class-A circuitry. Designed expressly for the Fender Precision acoustic/electric and HMT basses, it can also help other instruments with piezoelectric pickups. If you thought piezo pickups had to sound "clacky", weak, and trebly, think agai n! Properly buffered, the Fender piezo pickup has bass that`s miles deep, yet it still cleanly captures all the warm woodiness of this semihollow-bodied instrument. The PZP-1 started out as a way to improve the sound of my own Fender A/E, the second bass I ever owned.

I loved the playability of the bass but never found the piezo bridge pickup to be useful on its own. Eventually I got frustrated, took it apart, and discovered that the electronics in this bass were designed for two magnetic pickups, not a mag and a piezo. I came up with a fix, and put up a web page describing it so other hobbyists could follow in my path.

A few people built it, we exchanged information, and the circuit evolved over time. A number of people more interested in playing bass than in soldering asked if I could sell them one ready-made. And finally the answer is yes! Please note that a number of other folks are selling piezo buffers based on an earlier and simpler version of this circuit.

The present version has somewhat lower distortion, lower noise, and is better able to drive low impedances than the older circuit could. All versions of this circuit are in the public domain and copying is welcomed. So far I haven`t seen anybody else selling this version, though. The PZP-1 fits inside your bass and shares the same battery used by the existing electronics. Because of this, installation does require some soldering, similar to other aftermarket preamps or replacement pickups.

If you have questions about whether you`re up to it, take a peek at the installation guide below. The PZP-1 is also available with only one battery clip for use in an instrument with no other active electronics, and can be mounted in a mint tin for outboard use. Contact me for details. The PZP-1 is handmade in very small quantities by me. It costs $49 including shipping within the US; shipping outside the US costs an additional $15 for most countries.

I sell it directly; I accept PayPal, money order, or cashier`s checks. For more information or to purchase, email audio@cafewalter. com.