What type of guitar is the Fishman Fluence Rock Icon compatible with?

The Fishman Fluence Rock Icon is designed specifically for steel-string acoustic guitars. It is not intended for use with nylon-string classical guitars.

What is the primary benefit of Fluence Core technology?

Fluence Core technology replaces traditional copper-wire windings with printed coils. This results in a hum-free performance, greater consistency between units, and improved harmonic clarity.

Does this pickup require a battery?

Yes, as an active pickup utilizing Fluence technology, it requires a power source to function. This is typically a 9V battery or a rechargeable battery pack.

How do the two voices differ on the Rock Icon?

Voice 1 is dynamic and forward, suited for clean melodic playing. Voice 2 provides a vintage-inspired sound with increased bite and presence for a more aggressive character.

Is the Fishman Fluence Rock Icon suitable for recording?

Yes, its hum-free design and high-fidelity signal path make it an excellent choice for studio recording where noise floor is a concern.

What kind of magnets are used in this pickup?

The pickup utilises neodymium magnets, which are known for their high magnetic strength and ability to provide a clear, punchy response.

Can I switch between voices while playing?

Yes, the pickup is designed with a switch that allows the player to toggle between the two distinct voicings instantly.

Is this a humbucking or single-coil design?

The Rock Icon features a humbucking design, which naturally cancels out electromagnetic interference and mains hum.

How does this pickup handle high-volume stage environments?

It is specifically built for live performance authority, offering strong projection and feedback resistance compared to traditional microphones.

What is the typical price for the Fishman Fluence Rock Icon?

The typical price for this unit is approximately £264, placing it in the premium tier of acoustic guitar pickups.

Does this pickup preserve the natural sound of the guitar?

While it adds a 'Rock Icon' voicing, it is designed to capture the punch and depth of the instrument without losing its fundamental natural character.

Is it better for fingerstyle or flatpicking?

It is versatile for both; Voice 1 is particularly well-suited for clean picking and melodic lines, while Voice 2 handles aggressive strumming with extra bite.

Gear article

Fishman Fluence Rock Icon Acoustic Guitar Pickup

The Fishman Fluence Rock Icon is a professional-grade humbucking pickup designed specifically for steel-string acoustic guitars. Utilising Fishman's proprietary Fluence Core technology, it provides high-output, hum-free performance with two distinct switchable voicings for live and studio applications.

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Overview

The Fishman Fluence Rock Icon is engineered to provide acoustic guitarists with a powerful, authoritative stage presence. Unlike traditional wire-wound pickups, this unit employs Fluence Core technology to eliminate common issues such as interference and signal loss. It is designed to capture the punch and clarity required for classic rock acoustic tones while maintaining the instrument's natural resonance.

Technical Features

At the heart of the pickup is a neodymium magnet system and a humbucking design. This combination ensures a high signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in a completely hum-free performance. The use of Fluence technology allows for a level of consistency and harmonic detail that is often difficult to achieve with standard passive magnetic pickups. The system is active, requiring a power source to drive the two distinct electronic voicings.

Dual Voicing System

The Rock Icon features two distinct sonic profiles, accessible via a toggle switch:

Voice 1: A forward, dynamic sound tailored for clean picking, melodic lead lines, and expressive acoustic performances where clarity is paramount.
Voice 2: A vintage-inspired voicing that provides extra 'bite' and presence, ideal for players who need their acoustic guitar to cut through a dense band mix or emulate classic rock recordings.

Performance and Sound Character

The pickup is characterised by its ability to deliver strong dynamics and pristine harmonics. It is specifically voiced to provide the 'punch' associated with classic rock, making it a suitable choice for large-scale live performances where projection is necessary. Despite its high output, it is designed to preserve the fundamental depth and character of the host instrument, avoiding the 'thin' sound sometimes associated with lesser magnetic pickups.

Suitability and Comparisons

This pickup is primarily aimed at professional players and serious enthusiasts who require a reliable solution for rehearsal, recording, or live performance. While it is designed for steel-string acoustics, it offers a more modern, active alternative to traditional soundhole pickups. In terms of price and performance, it sits in a premium bracket compared to entry-level accessories often found with budget instruments like the Gear4music Student series or standard Tanglewood Northstar models.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of guitar is the Fishman Fluence Rock Icon compatible with?: The Fishman Fluence Rock Icon is designed specifically for steel-string acoustic guitars. It is not intended for use with nylon-string classical guitars.
What is the primary benefit of Fluence Core technology?: Fluence Core technology replaces traditional copper-wire windings with printed coils. This results in a hum-free performance, greater consistency between units, and improved harmonic clarity.
Does this pickup require a battery?: Yes, as an active pickup utilizing Fluence technology, it requires a power source to function. This is typically a 9V battery or a rechargeable battery pack.
How do the two voices differ on the Rock Icon?: Voice 1 is dynamic and forward, suited for clean melodic playing. Voice 2 provides a vintage-inspired sound with increased bite and presence for a more aggressive character.
Is the Fishman Fluence Rock Icon suitable for recording?: Yes, its hum-free design and high-fidelity signal path make it an excellent choice for studio recording where noise floor is a concern.
What kind of magnets are used in this pickup?: The pickup utilises neodymium magnets, which are known for their high magnetic strength and ability to provide a clear, punchy response.
Can I switch between voices while playing?: Yes, the pickup is designed with a switch that allows the player to toggle between the two distinct voicings instantly.
Is this a humbucking or single-coil design?: The Rock Icon features a humbucking design, which naturally cancels out electromagnetic interference and mains hum.
How does this pickup handle high-volume stage environments?: It is specifically built for live performance authority, offering strong projection and feedback resistance compared to traditional microphones.
What is the typical price for the Fishman Fluence Rock Icon?: The typical price for this unit is approximately £264, placing it in the premium tier of acoustic guitar pickups.
Does this pickup preserve the natural sound of the guitar?: While it adds a 'Rock Icon' voicing, it is designed to capture the punch and depth of the instrument without losing its fundamental natural character.
Is it better for fingerstyle or flatpicking?: It is versatile for both; Voice 1 is particularly well-suited for clean picking and melodic lines, while Voice 2 handles aggressive strumming with extra bite.