Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura

Setting Up for Performance

With 11 adjustable parameters, 12 factory Sound Images (and more to download from the Fishman Aura website), plus 50 program locations to hold your mixes, the Aura gives you an incredible amount of power and flexibility. You have the power to create an almost infinite number of Sound Image/pickup mixes to suit your taste. The 50 program locations in Play mode let you group your mixes into any order you prefer for quick recall during a performance. All these possibilities may seem a little daunting at first, but once you get familiar with the control layout and navigation you’ll find that building your mixes becomes second nature.

If you plan to use the Aura on a gig, we strongly suggest that you first spend some time getting comfortable with it at home. Use this time to find the Sound Images that you’d like to use on the gig and to create the mixes you will use onstage. Once you set up your mixes, document their program locations on the blank Programs page provided in the back of this manual. We suggest you photocopy this page and keep it with your Aura for reference. When you get to the gig, you’ll have all your basic settings down, so you can focus your attention on the music and not on your gear.

Understanding Aura Navigation

To get the most out of your Aura experience, you will need to understand the the navigation terminology for this device. If not, here is a brief summary:

Play Mode

Move the Play/Edit switch to Play to make the Aura’s fifty program locations (and their related mixes) are accessible.

Edit Mode

Move the Play/Edit switch to Edit to make the Aura’s eleven adjustable parameters accessible for building Sound Image/pickup mixes.

Sound Image

The Aura’s 16 instrument-specific acoustic guitar templates (driven by your pickup) take the place of a microphone signal in this blender- style device. Instrument-specific means you’ll usually get the best results when you choose a Sound Image that matches the style of guitar you play (dreadnought, grand auditorium, classical, etc). Sound Images reside in Edit mode in the Select parameter. Sound Images cannot accidentally be “erased”, so don’t worry about losing them. Note that any or all Sound Images 01-12 can be replaced with new ones, downloaded from our website and transferred to your Aura via MIDI access. Any Sound Image you replace can easily be retrieved through the same process.

Mix (or Sound Image/Pickup Mix)

We call the blended combination of a Sound Image and a pickup signal a mix. You create a mix by choosing a Sound Image, blending it with the pickup and seasoning to taste with the various parameters in Edit Mode.

Program Locations

The 50 slots in Play mode in which you place your mixes are called program locations. You select a program location with either the Up/Down footswitches or the Data Knob.

Tip: Think of the program locations in Play as your canvasses and the parameters in Edit as paints. You choose a canvas (a program number in Play), move the switch to Edit, then choose from your palette of paints around the Parameter knob. Color and shade the subject by modifying the eleven parameters with the Data knob. Once you switch back to Play, you've put the paint to canvas.

26

Page 26
Image 26
Fishman manual Setting Up for Performance, Understanding Aura Navigation

Aura specifications

The Fishman Aura is a cutting-edge acoustic imaging system that revolutionizes the way musicians connect with their instruments. Designed to enhance the acoustic guitar experience, it offers an unparalleled level of sound quality and tonal versatility.

At the heart of the Fishman Aura is its unique technology, which employs advanced imaging techniques to capture the true sound characteristics of a guitar. This system allows players to achieve studio-quality sound without the need for complex microphone setups. The Aura features a selection of pre-amped images that replicate the tonal attributes of various high-end acoustic guitars, ensuring that musicians can find the perfect sound for their playing style and genre.

One of the standout features of the Fishman Aura is its easy-to-use interface. With its intuitive controls, musicians can quickly select between numerous guitar images, adjusting their tone to fit the context of their performance. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for singer-songwriters or performers who switch between different instruments, as it allows for swift and seamless transitions.

In addition to its imaging capabilities, the Fishman Aura incorporates high-quality preamp technology. This ensures that the signal output is not only clean and clear but also rich in dynamics, making it suitable for both live performances and studio recordings. The preamp is specifically designed to minimize feedback, a common challenge when amplifying acoustic instruments.

Another notable characteristic of the Fishman Aura is its compatibility with a variety of pickup systems. Whether you have a traditional piezo pickup or a more modern under-saddle sensor, the Aura can easily accommodate your setup. This universal compatibility further extends the versatility of the system, making it an excellent choice for any guitarist seeking to enhance their sound.

Durability is also a key consideration in the design of the Fishman Aura. Built to withstand the rigors of road use, it features a robust construction that ensures reliability in diverse performance environments. Its compact form factor makes it easy to transport, allowing musicians to take their sound anywhere.

In summary, the Fishman Aura is an innovative acoustic imaging system that elevates the performance of acoustic guitars. With its unique sound imaging technology, user-friendly controls, high-quality preamp, compatibility with various pickups, and durable design, it stands out as an essential tool for both live and studio applications. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the Fishman Aura is sure to enhance your acoustic sound experience.