What is the Fishman V-300?

The Fishman V-300 is a professional-level violin pickup that comes pre-installed in a high-quality Despiau maple bridge for accurate sound reproduction.

Who is this pickup designed for?

It is designed for professional violinists and serious students who need to amplify their acoustic instrument without sacrificing natural tone or accuracy.

Does the bridge come pre-fitted to the violin?

No, the bridge is a quality Despiau blank. It must be professionally fitted to your specific violin's top and string height by a luthier.

What kind of bridge is used in the V-300?

The V-300 uses a premium Despiau bridge, which is a standard choice for high-quality orchestral string instrument components.

Does the V-300 require a battery?

The V-300 itself is a passive piezoelectric pickup and does not require a battery. However, an external preamp (which may require a battery) is recommended for the best tonal results.

How does the V-300 compare to the V-200?

The V-300 is part of the Concert Series, offering a higher level of performance and accuracy compared to the standard V-200 series, largely due to the integrated Despiau bridge design.

Can I install the V-300 on a viola?

Fishman produces specific versions for different instruments; while the V-300 is intended for violins, the Concert Series technology is also adapted for violas in similar configurations.

What is the typical price for the V-300?

The typical price for the Fishman Concert Series V-300 violin pickup is approximately GBP 172.

Will this pickup work with a standard guitar amplifier?

Yes, it can work with a standard amplifier, though using an acoustic-specific amplifier or a dedicated preamp is recommended to capture the natural violin tone.

Is the V-300 resistant to feedback?

Yes, because the transducer is embedded within the bridge rather than being an external microphone, it is much more resistant to feedback in loud stage environments.

Do I need to modify my violin to use the V-300?

The only modification is the replacement of your existing bridge with the V-300 bridge and the attachment of an output jack to the tailpiece area.

Does it capture the 'woody' sound of the violin?

Yes, the V-300 is specifically engineered to provide a natural tone, capturing the vibrations of the bridge and body for a more authentic acoustic sound.

Gear article

Fishman Concert Series V-300 Violin Pickup

The Fishman Concert Series V-300 is a professional-grade piezoelectric pickup system designed for high-fidelity violin sound reproduction. It features a ceramic transducer pre-installed into a high-quality Despiau maple bridge to ensure accurate tonal transfer and ease of installation.

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Overview

The Fishman Concert Series V-300 is a premium amplification solution for orchestral string players who require a transparent, natural-sounding signal. Unlike clip-on microphones or temporary bridge-mounted sensors, the V-300 integrates the pickup element directly into the structure of the instrument's bridge. This design focuses on capturing the physical vibrations of the violin's top plate and strings with maximum efficiency and minimal interference.

Design and Construction

The core of the V-300 system is a sensing element embedded within a genuine Despiau bridge. Despiau is widely regarded for producing professional-standard bridges that do not dampen the natural resonance of the violin. By embedding the pickup during the manufacturing process, Fishman ensures that the transducer is positioned at the optimal point for string balance and frequency response. The unit typically requires a standard 1/4" output jack (often sold separately or as part of a kit) to connect to an amplifier or PA system.

Sound Character and Performance

The V-300 is engineered for accuracy and tone reproduction. Because the sensor is housed within the wood of the bridge, it captures the 'woodiness' of the acoustic violin rather than just the metallic sound of the strings. It is noted for its high level of performance and ability to maintain the instrument's natural voice even at higher volumes. The piezoelectric technology provides a fast transient response, making it suitable for both classical performances and more aggressive contemporary playing styles.

Installation and Compatibility

While the pickup is pre-installed in the bridge, the bridge itself arrives as a 'blank' that must be fitted to the specific violin by a luthier or skilled technician. This involves carving the feet to match the arching of the violin's belly and thinning the top to the correct height for the strings. Once fitted, it provides a stable, permanent solution that is significantly more reliable than temporary surface-mount pickups.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to entry-level options or electric-specific instruments like the G4M Solus Electric Violin, the V-300 offers a more traditional acoustic feel. Unlike clip-on mics which may be prone to feedback in loud environments, the V-300’s bridge-integrated design is more resistant to stage noise. While instruments like the Stentor Graduate or Messina are excellent for students, adding a V-300 allows these acoustic instruments to transition effectively into amplified professional environments.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Fishman V-300?: The Fishman V-300 is a professional-level violin pickup that comes pre-installed in a high-quality Despiau maple bridge for accurate sound reproduction.
Who is this pickup designed for?: It is designed for professional violinists and serious students who need to amplify their acoustic instrument without sacrificing natural tone or accuracy.
Does the bridge come pre-fitted to the violin?: No, the bridge is a quality Despiau blank. It must be professionally fitted to your specific violin's top and string height by a luthier.
What kind of bridge is used in the V-300?: The V-300 uses a premium Despiau bridge, which is a standard choice for high-quality orchestral string instrument components.
Does the V-300 require a battery?: The V-300 itself is a passive piezoelectric pickup and does not require a battery. However, an external preamp (which may require a battery) is recommended for the best tonal results.
How does the V-300 compare to the V-200?: The V-300 is part of the Concert Series, offering a higher level of performance and accuracy compared to the standard V-200 series, largely due to the integrated Despiau bridge design.
Can I install the V-300 on a viola?: Fishman produces specific versions for different instruments; while the V-300 is intended for violins, the Concert Series technology is also adapted for violas in similar configurations.
What is the typical price for the V-300?: The typical price for the Fishman Concert Series V-300 violin pickup is approximately GBP 172.
Will this pickup work with a standard guitar amplifier?: Yes, it can work with a standard amplifier, though using an acoustic-specific amplifier or a dedicated preamp is recommended to capture the natural violin tone.
Is the V-300 resistant to feedback?: Yes, because the transducer is embedded within the bridge rather than being an external microphone, it is much more resistant to feedback in loud stage environments.
Do I need to modify my violin to use the V-300?: The only modification is the replacement of your existing bridge with the V-300 bridge and the attachment of an output jack to the tailpiece area.
Does it capture the 'woody' sound of the violin?: Yes, the V-300 is specifically engineered to provide a natural tone, capturing the vibrations of the bridge and body for a more authentic acoustic sound.