What type of sensor does the Fishman V-200 use?

The Fishman V-200 utilises a piezo-ceramic sensor. This technology is designed to detect the physical vibrations of the bridge and convert them into an electrical signal.

How is the output jack attached to the violin?

The V-200 features a Carpenter-style 1/4" output jack. It mounts to the side of the instrument using chinrest-style hardware, ensuring a secure fit without permanent modification.

Does the V-200 require a battery?

The V-200 is a passive pickup, meaning the sensor itself does not require a battery to function. However, an external preamp is often recommended to achieve the best tonal results.

Can the Fishman V-200 be used on a viola?

Yes, the V-200 is compatible with both violins and violas. The mounting hardware and sensor placement are designed to work with the standard bridge and body dimensions of both instruments.

Is professional installation required for the V-200?

Installation is designed to be easy and can typically be performed by the player. The sensor fits into the bridge wing, and the jack clamps onto the ribs like a chinrest.

Will the V-200 damage my instrument's finish?

The pickup uses chinrest-style hardware, which generally features protective padding. If installed correctly, it should not damage the varnish, though care should be taken during fitting.

What is the typical price for the Fishman V-200?

The typical price for a new Fishman V-200 is approximately £128. This price point positions it as a professional-level accessory for string players.

How does the V-200 compare to a dedicated electric violin?

Unlike a dedicated electric violin like the G4M Solus, the V-200 allows you to amplify your existing acoustic instrument. This preserves the natural feel and weight of the violin you are accustomed to.

Where does the sensor actually sit on the violin?

The small piezo-ceramic sensor is designed to be inserted into the 'wing' or side-slot of the violin's bridge. This position allows it to capture the most direct vibrations from the strings.

What kind of cable does the V-200 use?

The V-200 uses a standard 1/4" instrument cable. This is the same type of cable used for electric guitars, making it easy to connect to amplifiers or soundboards.

Does this pickup provide a natural acoustic sound?

The V-200 is designed to give the violin an 'extra edge' and clarity for live performance. While very clear, the piezo character is often described as bright, which helps the sound cut through other instruments.

Can I still use my standard chinrest with the V-200?

Yes, the V-200 jack mounts alongside your existing chinrest, such as a Goetz Kaufmann or Stuber style. It does not replace the chinrest but uses similar mounting mechanics.

Gear article

Fishman V-200 Professional Violin Pickup

The Fishman V-200 is a professional-grade piezo-ceramic pickup designed for violins and violas. It utilizes a bridge-mounted sensor and a side-mounted Carpenter-style output jack to provide reliable amplification for orchestral string players.

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Overview

The Fishman V-200 Professional Violin Pickup is a widely utilised solution for amplifying acoustic violins and violas. It is engineered to capture the natural vibrations of the instrument without requiring permanent structural modifications. The system consists of a lightweight sensing element and a secure mounting assembly, making it a popular choice for performers transitioning between acoustic and amplified settings.

Design and Hardware

The V-200 employs a piezo-ceramic sensor that is designed to be wedged into the wing slot of the violin bridge. A defining feature of the model is its Carpenter-style 1/4" output jack. This jack is mounted to the side of the instrument using hardware similar to a standard chinrest, such as those produced by Goetz. This mounting method ensures that the weight of the cable does not pull directly on the bridge, providing stability during live performances.

Installation and Compatibility

Installation of the V-200 is relatively straightforward and non-invasive. Because it uses chinrest-style clamps, it can be attached to most standard violins and violas. Unlike internal pickup systems, it does not require drilling or gluing. Players often pair this hardware with high-quality accessories, such as Hidersine carbon bows or Wittner adjustable tailpieces, to maintain the instrument's overall playability while amplified.

Sound Character

The piezo-ceramic technology used in the V-200 is designed to provide a bright, clear signal that gives the violin an 'extra edge' in loud environments. By sensing the vibrations directly from the bridge, the pickup delivers a focused tone that helps the instrument cut through a mix. While it provides a crisp signal, many players choose to use it in conjunction with an external preamp to further shape the frequency response and manage impedance.

Suitability and Comparison

This pickup is primarily suited for professional and semi-professional players who require a reliable, removable amplification system. Compared to dedicated electric instruments like the G4M Solus, the V-200 allows a player to retain the feel of their acoustic instrument. It is an ideal step up for those using entry-level instruments, such as Stentor Graduate or Messina models, who are beginning to perform in venues where a microphone is insufficient.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of sensor does the Fishman V-200 use?: The Fishman V-200 utilises a piezo-ceramic sensor. This technology is designed to detect the physical vibrations of the bridge and convert them into an electrical signal.
How is the output jack attached to the violin?: The V-200 features a Carpenter-style 1/4" output jack. It mounts to the side of the instrument using chinrest-style hardware, ensuring a secure fit without permanent modification.
Does the V-200 require a battery?: The V-200 is a passive pickup, meaning the sensor itself does not require a battery to function. However, an external preamp is often recommended to achieve the best tonal results.
Can the Fishman V-200 be used on a viola?: Yes, the V-200 is compatible with both violins and violas. The mounting hardware and sensor placement are designed to work with the standard bridge and body dimensions of both instruments.
Is professional installation required for the V-200?: Installation is designed to be easy and can typically be performed by the player. The sensor fits into the bridge wing, and the jack clamps onto the ribs like a chinrest.
Will the V-200 damage my instrument's finish?: The pickup uses chinrest-style hardware, which generally features protective padding. If installed correctly, it should not damage the varnish, though care should be taken during fitting.
What is the typical price for the Fishman V-200?: The typical price for a new Fishman V-200 is approximately £128. This price point positions it as a professional-level accessory for string players.
How does the V-200 compare to a dedicated electric violin?: Unlike a dedicated electric violin like the G4M Solus, the V-200 allows you to amplify your existing acoustic instrument. This preserves the natural feel and weight of the violin you are accustomed to.
Where does the sensor actually sit on the violin?: The small piezo-ceramic sensor is designed to be inserted into the 'wing' or side-slot of the violin's bridge. This position allows it to capture the most direct vibrations from the strings.
What kind of cable does the V-200 use?: The V-200 uses a standard 1/4" instrument cable. This is the same type of cable used for electric guitars, making it easy to connect to amplifiers or soundboards.
Does this pickup provide a natural acoustic sound?: The V-200 is designed to give the violin an 'extra edge' and clarity for live performance. While very clear, the piezo character is often described as bright, which helps the sound cut through other instruments.
Can I still use my standard chinrest with the V-200?: Yes, the V-200 jack mounts alongside your existing chinrest, such as a Goetz Kaufmann or Stuber style. It does not replace the chinrest but uses similar mounting mechanics.