What is the primary difference between the Anthem and the Anthem SL?

The Anthem SL features the same microphone and pickup technology as the standard Anthem but uses a smaller, simplified control set. While the standard Anthem has a full mixer and battery check, the SL focuses on a minimalist volume control and mic trim.

How does the Tru-Mic technology work?

The Tru-Mic is a noise-cancelling condenser microphone mounted to the underside of the bridge plate. It is designed to capture the primary voice of the guitar while rejecting the internal 'boxiness' of the body.

Is the L.R. Baggs Anthem SL a dual-source system?

Yes, it is a dual-source system. it combines the Tru-Mic condenser microphone with the Element undersaddle pickup to provide a full-range, balanced frequency response.

What controls are available on the Anthem SL?

The system features a soundhole-mounted remote with two primary controls: a master volume wheel and a microphone trim control. The trim control allows the user to set the level of the microphone relative to the undersaddle pickup.

Does the Anthem SL require batteries?

Yes, the system is active and typically requires a 9V battery to power the internal preamp and the condenser microphone. The battery is usually housed in a bag inside the guitar.

Can I install the Anthem SL myself?

While it is possible for experienced users, professional installation by a luthier is recommended. The process involves drilling a hole for the undersaddle pickup and precisely mounting the Tru-Mic to the bridge plate.

How does the Anthem SL handle feedback on loud stages?

The system is designed for high feedback resistance by using the Element pickup for low frequencies and the noise-cancelling Tru-Mic for highs. This configuration is more stable than using a standard internal microphone alone.

What is the typical price for an L.R. Baggs Anthem SL?

The typical price range for this pickup system is approximately GBP 264. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.

Will the Anthem SL fit any acoustic guitar?

It fits most standard acoustic guitars with a 3.5-inch or larger soundhole. However, it may not be compatible with certain nylon string guitars or those with non-standard bridge plate configurations.

Does the system include a preamp?

Yes, the Anthem SL includes an endpin preamp that is tuned to provide a high-quality signal to an amplifier or PA system. The preamp is pre-set with a crossover to blend the mic and pickup effectively.

Is the soundhole control unit visible?

The control unit is designed to be very discreet. It mounts to the underside of the soundhole, making it almost invisible from a distance while remaining easily accessible to the player.

How does it compare to using a Shure SM57 for acoustic guitar?

While an SM57 is a classic instrument mic, it requires the player to stay stationary in front of a stand. The Anthem SL provides a similar high-quality tone while allowing the player to move freely on stage.

Gear article

L.R. Baggs Anthem SL Acoustic Guitar Mic/Pickup

The L.R. Baggs Anthem SL is a hybrid acoustic guitar pickup system featuring proprietary Tru-Mic condenser technology paired with an Element undersaddle transducer. Designed for professional live performance, it provides studio-quality microphone tones with simplified soundhole controls to maintain the instrument's natural aesthetic and structural integrity.

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Overview

The L.R. Baggs Anthem SL is a streamlined version of the award-winning Anthem series, specifically engineered for guitarists who require high-fidelity amplification without complex interfaces. It utilizes a dual-source approach to capture the complex vibrations of an acoustic guitar, blending a bridge-mounted microphone with a traditional piezo-style pickup.

Technology and Design

The core of the system is the Tru-Mic technology. Unlike standard internal microphones that are prone to feedback and 'boxy' resonances, the Tru-Mic is mounted to the bridge plate to capture the majority of the guitar's voice. This is supplemented by the Element undersaddle pickup, which handles the lowest frequencies to provide solid foundation and increased feedback resistance.

The 'SL' (Slim Line) designation refers to the minimal control interface. Rather than a large preamp mounted in the guitar's side, the Anthem SL uses a discreet soundhole-mounted remote. This unit houses a master volume control and a small trim pot to adjust the microphone's contribution to the mix.

Shure SM58 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone

Sound Character

The Anthem SL is designed to deliver a 'studio-miked' sound in a live environment. By relying heavily on the condenser microphone for the mid and high frequencies, it avoids the percussive 'quack' often associated with undersaddle pickups. The result is a warm, transparent tone that reflects the specific wood and build characteristics of the host instrument.

Applications and Suitability

This system is ideal for players who want to convert a high-end acoustic guitar into an electro-acoustic without cutting large holes for a preamp. Because the controls are hidden within the soundhole, it preserves the guitar's traditional appearance. It is particularly suited for fingerstyle players and strummers who prioritise tonal naturalism over onboard equalisation options.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to the standard L.R. Baggs Anthem, the SL offers the same audio quality but sacrifices the phase switch and the battery check light for a smaller footprint. While dedicated vocal or instrument microphones like the Shure SM57 or Sennheiser e935 are often used in studio settings to capture acoustic guitars, the Anthem SL provides a more practical, mobile solution for live stages where bleed from other instruments and feedback are significant concerns.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary difference between the Anthem and the Anthem SL?: The Anthem SL features the same microphone and pickup technology as the standard Anthem but uses a smaller, simplified control set. While the standard Anthem has a full mixer and battery check, the SL focuses on a minimalist volume control and mic trim.
How does the Tru-Mic technology work?: The Tru-Mic is a noise-cancelling condenser microphone mounted to the underside of the bridge plate. It is designed to capture the primary voice of the guitar while rejecting the internal 'boxiness' of the body.
Is the L.R. Baggs Anthem SL a dual-source system?: Yes, it is a dual-source system. it combines the Tru-Mic condenser microphone with the Element undersaddle pickup to provide a full-range, balanced frequency response.
What controls are available on the Anthem SL?: The system features a soundhole-mounted remote with two primary controls: a master volume wheel and a microphone trim control. The trim control allows the user to set the level of the microphone relative to the undersaddle pickup.
Does the Anthem SL require batteries?: Yes, the system is active and typically requires a 9V battery to power the internal preamp and the condenser microphone. The battery is usually housed in a bag inside the guitar.
Can I install the Anthem SL myself?: While it is possible for experienced users, professional installation by a luthier is recommended. The process involves drilling a hole for the undersaddle pickup and precisely mounting the Tru-Mic to the bridge plate.
How does the Anthem SL handle feedback on loud stages?: The system is designed for high feedback resistance by using the Element pickup for low frequencies and the noise-cancelling Tru-Mic for highs. This configuration is more stable than using a standard internal microphone alone.
What is the typical price for an L.R. Baggs Anthem SL?: The typical price range for this pickup system is approximately GBP 264. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.
Will the Anthem SL fit any acoustic guitar?: It fits most standard acoustic guitars with a 3.5-inch or larger soundhole. However, it may not be compatible with certain nylon string guitars or those with non-standard bridge plate configurations.
Does the system include a preamp?: Yes, the Anthem SL includes an endpin preamp that is tuned to provide a high-quality signal to an amplifier or PA system. The preamp is pre-set with a crossover to blend the mic and pickup effectively.
Is the soundhole control unit visible?: The control unit is designed to be very discreet. It mounts to the underside of the soundhole, making it almost invisible from a distance while remaining easily accessible to the player.
How does it compare to using a Shure SM57 for acoustic guitar?: While an SM57 is a classic instrument mic, it requires the player to stay stationary in front of a stand. The Anthem SL provides a similar high-quality tone while allowing the player to move freely on stage.