Troubleshooting Fishman Aura Pro Installation Issues
The Fishman Aura Pro is a powerful and versatile acoustic guitar system, but like any complex piece of equipment, installation can sometimes present challenges. This guide will walk you through common problems encountered during Aura Pro installation and offer practical solutions to get you back to playing. Whether you're dealing with a faulty connection, unexpected feedback, or simply a confusing aspect of the installation process, we'll cover it here.
Why is My Aura Pro Not Working?
This is the most common initial problem. Before you start ripping apart your guitar, systematically check these elements:
- Power Supply: Ensure the Aura Pro's power supply is correctly connected and providing power. Check the power adapter itself and make sure it's plugged securely into both the Aura Pro unit and a working outlet.
- Battery: If you're using battery power, make sure the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. Low battery voltage can lead to erratic behavior or complete failure.
- Connections: Check all cable connections thoroughly. The connections between the Aura Pro, your guitar's pickup, and your amplifier should be secure and free from damage. Examine the cables for any visible kinks or breaks.
- Blend Control: Make sure the blend control on the Aura Pro isn't turned all the way down, effectively muting the output.
- Output Level: Confirm that the output level on the Aura Pro isn't set too low.
- Grounding: An improper ground can cause hum or buzzing. Make sure all your equipment is properly grounded.
My Aura Pro Sounds Muddy or Has Excessive Feedback
These audio issues often stem from a few key sources:
- Placement of the Pickup: The position and orientation of the Aura Pro's pickup are critical. Improper placement can lead to muddy tone or excessive feedback. Experiment with slightly altering its position within the soundhole to optimize the sound.
- Incorrect EQ Settings: Experiment with the EQ settings on both the Aura Pro and your amplifier. Finding the right balance can significantly improve your sound.
- Microphone Proximity: The internal microphone is sensitive. Be mindful of its proximity to the soundboard and other elements that could contribute to feedback.
- Room Acoustics: The acoustics of your playing environment significantly influence feedback. Try moving your position or using different acoustic treatments to minimize feedback problems.
What are the Most Common Wiring Problems with the Aura Pro?
Wiring errors during installation are common culprits:
- Loose Connections: Ensure all solder joints are secure and free of cold solder joints. A poor solder connection can lead to intermittent operation or complete failure.
- Incorrect Wiring: Consult the detailed wiring diagrams included in the Aura Pro's installation manual. Even a small wiring mistake can have significant consequences. If you're unsure, consult a qualified technician.
- Short Circuits: Check carefully for any accidental short circuits between wires. These are often caused by stray wires touching components or other conductors.
How Do I Optimize the Aura Pro's Blend Setting?
The blend control allows you to adjust the balance between the pickup and the microphone signals.
- Experimentation: The best blend setting is highly dependent on the individual guitar and personal preferences. Experiment with various settings to discover what sounds best for you.
- Frequency Response: Consider the frequency response characteristics of both the pickup and microphone. This can impact your overall tonal balance.
- Playing Style: Your playing style can influence the optimal blend setting. A more aggressive playing style might require more pickup to compensate.
I'm Having Trouble With the Aura Pro's Internal Microphone. What Should I Do?
Problems with the internal microphone are relatively rare but can occur:
- Microphone Sensitivity: Adjust the microphone sensitivity settings on the Aura Pro itself. Excessive sensitivity can lead to unwanted noise or feedback.
- Placement: The internal microphone's placement is fixed. However, alterations to the soundboard's resonance can indirectly affect microphone performance.
- Dust or Debris: Ensure there’s no dust or debris obstructing the microphone.
This comprehensive guide should equip you to tackle most Aura Pro installation issues. If problems persist after trying these troubleshooting steps, contacting Fishman directly or seeking assistance from a qualified guitar technician is recommended. Remember to always consult the official Fishman Aura Pro installation manual for detailed instructions and specifications.
