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The subject guitar is a custom Santa Cruz OM with
Cocobolo back and sides. The owner would like to install the L.R. Baggs
iBeam Active system. |
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In-line with my preference for
non-invasive repairs, the end pin is carefully removed. Some people prefer
sawing off the end pin extension and drilling through what's
left of the end pin. If not carefully executed, the finish around the
end pin will chip and damage the guitar. I prefer to remove the end pin
and enlarge the hole by hand. |
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The end pin cavity has been
carefully reamed to the 1/2" diameter of the preamp assembly. The
walls of the cavity has also been sealed/finished. I do this to prevent
moisture/humidity from affecting the tail block. |
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The preamp assembly is fitted
through the end pin cavity but even with the preamp housing screwed all
the way in, the preamp assembly still extend by almost 1/8" from the
guitar. |
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A custom wood shim is made and
placed between the locking screw and washers. |
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The preamp assembly is now
properly fitted with just the right amount of protrusion from the tail
block. |
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The preamp assembly is
installed and the guitar's ready to be set up. |
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I'm sold on L.R. Baggs products. They sound
fantastic. I love the thoughtfulness to their products and design. The
battery for the preamp is housed in a nylon bag which is velcroed to the
side of the guitar. There's also a small thumbwheel for volume control
mounted on the side of the soundhole. Things couldn't be simpler. Having
said that, it does take experience to properly install the iBeam Active
Bridge Plate Transducer System. |
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The guitar's strung up and ready to
go. |
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The beautiful Cocobolo back and
sides. |