Acoustic Imaging Blender

Limited Warranty

Save your original sales receipt. It is your proof of purchase if you require warranty service. The Fishman Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender (Product) is warranted to the original consumer purchaser to be free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase. If the Product fails to function properly due to defects in materials or workmanship during the applicable warranty period, Fishman Transducers Inc. (Fishman), at its option, will repair or replace the Product, with no charge for labor or materials. Lost digital data is not covered under this warranty. This warranty applies only if the Product is sold and delivered within the U.S. by an authorized Fishman Dealer. Warranty service and repair for the Fishman Aura is to be made only at the factory in Wilmington, MA. Unauthorized repairs will void this warranty. Note: For factory warranty service, the customer must prepay freight to Fishman.
To obtain factory service:
An Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender repaired under warranty at the Fishman factory will be returned to the customer via UPS ground freight, prepaid by Fishman to any location within the continental United States.

Important!

A Product that is returned to Fishman which is not covered by the terms of this warranty will be repaired and returned C.O.D. with billing for labor, materials, return freight and insurance. For factory service, you must deliver the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender via prepaid freight to Fishman. 1 Contact Fishman Transducers Factory Service via email (tech@fishman.com) to obtain a Return Authorization number (RA number). Products returned without an RA number will be refused. 2 Pack the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender in its original shipping carton. Include your shipping address (no P.O. boxes or route numbers). Also include a copy of your sales receipt and a note that explains how to duplicate the problem. If we cannot duplicate the problem at the factory or verify the original purchase date, we may, at our option, charge for parts/labor and return shipping. 3 Ship the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender freight prepaid to:
Fishman Transducers Service Department 340 Fordham Road Wilmington, MA 01887 USA www.fishmanaura.com
EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY PROVIDED IN THIS DOCUMENT, THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL FISHMAN BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF PROFITS OR INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER SIMILAR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR OTHER OBLIGATION CONTAINED IN THIS OWNERS' MANUAL. THE WARRANTY CONTAINED HEREIN SHALL NOT APPLY IF THE SERIAL NUMBER IS DEFACED OR REMOVED OR THE PRODUCT HAS BEEN DAMAGED BY ALTERATION, MISUSE, ACCIDENT, NEGLECT OR USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED ATTACHMENTS. 513-000-006 Rev A 12-03

Programs

Warnings

Table of Contents

Quick Start Introduction
Product Registration Welcome What Is a Sound Image? Aura Capabilities Aura, the Internet and You
Factory Sound Image/Pickup Mixes*

CAUTION

Risk of electric shock. Do not open. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel. Do not expose to rain or moisture.
Important Safety Instructions
To ensure your personal safety and the safety of others, operate this apparatus only after reading these instructions and heeding the warnings listed below. Before you operate the Aura, read the safety instructions below and keep them for reference. Follow all instructions.

Controls and Rear Panel Connections

Rear Panel Front Panel

Chapter 1: Control Panel Overview
The Five Basic Groups LED Display Edit/Play Switch Data Knob Effect on/off Switch

Play Mode

Pgrm # Instrument
17-50 Dreadnought 1 Dreadnought 2 Grand Concert 1 Classical 1 Jumbo 1 Dreadnought 3 Dreadnought 4 L-Style Grand Auditorium Orchestra Model 1 Jumbo 12 String 1 Jumbo 2 Mag Dreadnought 5 Mag Grand Auditorium 2 Mag Orchestra Model 2 Mag Grand Concert 2 Mag No Sound Image, pickup only

Edit Mode

rosewood rosewood cutaway mahogany rosewood maple rosewood rosewood rosewood ovangkol rosewood maple maple rosewood ovangkol rosewood mahogany

(Select parameter)

Web Name
MHD28SM58NTI MD16U47PP M00184011NTI R2CWECX111PPRO GJ200U47NTI CD2H4011NTII MD28CU31NTII L09CU31PSB T4144011PP MOM21CX11NT1 GF412SM58PP GJ200SM58REH MD16CU31REH T414U47REH MOM21CX111REH M00184011REH
Do not use this apparatus near water. Clean only with a dry cloth. Do not operate near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as liquid spilled or objects fallen into into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped. Use only with the specified AC Adapter. (USA) Federal Communications Commission Radio Frequency Interference Statement NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rues. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee the interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. (Canada) This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Cet appareil numrique de la classe B est conforme la norme NMB-003 du Canada. (EU Countries) This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC

Pickup

undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle undersaddle magnetic soundhole magnetic soundhole magnetic soundhole magnetic soundhole magnetic soundhole

Reference Microphone

dynamic large diaphragm condenser small diaphragm condenser large diaphragm condenser large diaphragm condenser small diaphragm condenser small diaphragm condenser small diaphragm condenser small diaphragm condenser large diaphragm condenser dynamic dynamic small diaphragm condenser large diaphragm condenser large diaphragm condenser small diaphragm condenser

Sound Image #

P1 P2 P3 P12
Chapter 2: Inner Workings
Input /Output Input Level and LEDs Output Level Phase Switches Play Mode Edit/Play Switch Programs Effect on/off Switch Edit Mode Edit/Play Switch Data Knob Effect on/off Switch Setup Parameter Select Aura Equalization Blend Pickup Equalization Phase Switches Compressor Level Effect on/off Switch Tuner Feedback Cancel
Chapter 3: Setting Up for Performance Appendices
*Note: All mixes are factory preset to a blend of 75% sound image and 25% pickup.
Tested To Comply With FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
Specifications Glossary Troubleshooting Factory Default Settings Programs

Quick Start

Here we give you a taste of some of the sounds in the Aura. To take full advantage of all the Auras possibilities, please read through this manual; especially the Inner Workings Chapter.

Appendix D

Input Requirements
Acoustic Guitar: Use only an undersaddle pickup or a magnetic soundhole pickup. Other Instruments: Use only a bridge mounted pickup. If your pickup system has an onboard microphone, shut it off. If your pickup system has onboard EQ, set all the controls flat.

Factory Default Settings

Get Your Feet Wet
1 Connect the Auras Output or XLR Output to your amplifier or mixer input. 2 Connect your acoustic instrument to the Input jack on the rear panel. 3 Connect the recommended adapter to the 9VDC input to power up the Aura (see Controls and Connections, Rear Panel, 9VDC). Keep the volume down on your amplifier or mixer to avoid a loud pop that could damage your speakers (or your ears!). 4 Play your instrument aggressively and adjust the Input Level until the adjacent LED (yellow) flickers regularly and the red LED does not light up at all. 5 Set Edit/Play switch to Play. 6 Raise the Output Level to a comfortable volume. 7 Browse Through The Different Sound Image / Pickup Mixes Use the Up and Down footswitches or the Data control to scroll through programs 01-16 and find a Sound Image/pickup mix that matches well with your instrument. The Aura comes with 16 factory-loaded digital Sound Images that correspond to a popular variety of acoustic guitars and microphone combinations. To help you identify the instrument, pickup and microphone associated with each program number, see to the Quick Reference Card included with this manual.

Appendix C

Introduction

Troubleshooting

Problem
Power does not turn on No sound or not loud enough
Product Registration Please fill out the Product Registration form online at

Possible Cause

Do you have the correct AC adapter?

Solution

Use only Fishman 910R or Roland PSA adapters
http://www.fishman.com/register.asp
Why register? When you do, we have your information on file should your Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender ever require warranty service. Your registration also keeps you on the cutting edge: we can let you know when updates and upgrades for the Aura become available.
Have the connections to other devices been made correctly? Are the Input and Output levels too low? Is the tuner engaged?
Check your connections Raise Input and/or Output levels Disengage the tuner or step on the Down footswitch to un-mute the tuner

Welcome!

We at Fishman thank you for purchasing the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender. Youll be glad you did, because the Aura is going to forever change the way you think about acoustic amplification. Whether youre plugging in onstage, recording in the studio, jamming with friends or just noodling around at home, this little silver box will transform your amplified acoustic sound. Through the magic of cutting-edge digital technology, Aura grants the secret wish of every acoustic musician: dead-on amplified acoustic tone. No apologies. No compromises. Imagine the kind of realism you hear on your favorite acoustic recordings, but without a microphone. Aura is making instant believers of those who have written off pickups in the past. Auras acoustic Sound Imaging technology holds 16 Sound Images; the musical, genetic material of a variety of the worlds choicest acoustic guitars and microphones. When you plug into the Aura, its advanced algorithms transform your pickup signal into glorious, warm and radiant micd-up acoustic guitar tone. Can a pickup ever sound as good as a microphone? The answer is Yes. Cast off any preconceptions of what a pickup can sound like and be prepared for the future of acoustic amplification. You have found your Aura.

Thin sound or weak bass

Are the pickup and Sound Image signals out of phase?
Switch to Edit mode and select the Phase parameter. Turn the Data knob clockwise then counterclockwise and choose the pickup phase that complements the Sound Image Push Effect On/Off button so the LED above it lights up. Switch to Edit mode and choose the Select parameter Select a Sound Image with the Data knob (the prompt oF in the display means that no Sound Image is currently in that program location)

What you can expect from the Aura?
Sound Imaging bridges the credibility gap between unamplified and amplified acoustic guitar sound. Unlike modeling, which takes a generic signal and applies a specific coloration, Sound Imaging matches the specific sound of an acoustic guitar with a specific Sound Image. Modeling is simulation, whereas Sound Imaging is re-creation. Dont expect a catalog of different guitars at your fingertips; that is not what the Aura is intended for. Expect the Aura to amplify your instrument's most natural sound with incredible accuracy.
What Happens If I Mix and Match Sound Images?
We're not telling you that you cant try transforming your old Silvertone into a D-45 sound image, but don't expect miracles. The resonance and tonal balance of one type of guitar could be at odds with a dissimilar sound image. The nature of your particular guitar and the interactive nature of the Sound Image may clash, so proceed with caution. In the best cases, an acoustically neutral sounding instrument can put on some of the resonant characteristics of a dissimilar Sound Image, but we cant guarantee your results.

Initialization

Resets your Aura to its factory default settings.
An acronym for Musical Instrument Digital Interface; used to transfer downloaded Sound Image data between your home computer and the Aura.
Mix or Sound Image / Pickup Mix
The blended combination of a Sound Image and a pickup signal, created by manipulating parameters in Edit Mode, and stored in a program location in Play Mode.

Notch Filter

The proper name for the Feedback Cancel function. When the Feedback Cancel circuit identifies the resonant frequency of feedback, it sharply attenuates that frequency in a way that graphically resembles a notch, hence the name.

Parameter

The character attributes of the various Aura functions that can be adjusted.
The state in which the Auras 50 program locations (and their related mixes) are accessible. Also the state in which the onboard tuner is accessible.
Program or Program Location
The 50 numbered slots in Play Mode to which sound image/pickup mixes are assigned.

Select (Parameter knob)

Select allows you to choose any of the 16 Sound Images available in the Aura.
Sound Image (or Digital Sound Image)
A sophisticated algorithm that transforms the response of a pickup into that of a microphone in front of a guitar (or other string instrument). A Sound Image is constructed from actual recordings of actual instruments. To transform your instruments pickup signal, this algorithm seamlessly adjusts the pickup signals phase and frequency response to match the selected Sound Image template. Also, signature elements like body size, radiant sound from the guitar, body resonance, mic distance and microphone personality are all added to the equation - providing amplified acoustic guitar sound with indisputable realism.

3 Input Level and LEDs

Lets you match the output of your pickup to the input of the Aura for the cleanest possible signal.

Set Feedback Cancel

Once you have all your parameters adjusted, raise the Output level and see if the instrument will feedback. If it does, lower the Output Level, then hold down the Feedback Cancel footswitch for over two seconds until the LED over the switch flashes. Raise the output level until the feedback returns and it will be recognized by the Feedback Cancel circuit and eliminated.
9 Tuner Off/Feedback Cancel Footswitch
This dual-function footswitch disengages the Tuner and turns the Feedback Cancel feature on and off.

4 Effect on/off Switch

Push this switch to turn the digital Sound Image off and on. The green light turns on when the Sound Image is active.

Finish Up

Now that you have set up all the parameters, move the Edit/Play switch back to Play and you are done. Remember that the location of any mix you create will always get assigned to the last selected program location. Go make some music!

5 Parameter Knob

In Edit mode, point the knob to the desired parameter to access it.
10 Tuner On/Program Change Footswitches
These dual-function switches are for engaging the chromatic Tuner and changing program locations.

6 Edit/Play Switch

Suggestions for Mixes

Rhythm Guitar

Cut mids for both the Aura (Sound Image) and the pickup EQ. Try adding a little bit of C compression (C1 or C2) to fill out the chords.
Flip the switch to Play to access the 50 program locations for your sound image/pickup mixes. Move the switch to Edit to access the 11 adjustable parameters.

Flatpicking

Blend in a bit more Sound Image than pickup (about 5 or 6 in the display) and cut the treble for the Aura (Sound Image).

Fingerstyle

Set Blend to 3 or 4 and boost bass slightly for the Aura (Sound Image). Boost bass and treble and cut the mids for the pickup. Use a little bit of L Compression (L1 or L2) for more snap.

Nylon String

Classical guitars tend to have a very open bass response, so cut bass for the Aura (Sound Image).

Set Phase Switches

1 Raise the Output level until the instrument just begins to feedback. 2 Play the instrument and flip the Phase switch (the one between the Output and Input Level knobs) back and forth. Leave the switch in the position that sounds best, with the least feedback. 3 With the Parameter knob still at Blend, move the Data knob counterclockwise until the number 4 appears in the display. 4 Raise the Output level again until the instrument just begins to feedback. 5 Turn the Parameter knob to the Phase position, play your instrument and turn the Data knob clockwise (1 in the display), then counterclockwise (0 in the display). Listen to the differences in sound quality and choose the position that sounds the most natural with the strongest bass and least feedback.
Set Sound Image/Pickup Blend
Turn the Parameter knob to Blend and use the Data knob to adjust the balance between the Sound Image and the pickup. Set the Blend to 3 or 4 for live sound and to 7 or A for recording.
If the Sound Image is so great, why do you need to mix in the pickup too?
The pickup will reinforce the Sound Image signal when you perform with the Aura. With the pickup mixed in, your live sound will be clean, articulate and more dynamic. For recording, we suggest you blend in more of the Sound Image with little or no pickup.
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 youll 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 youd 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, youll have all your basic settings down, so you can focus your attention on the music and not on your gear.

Programmable Feedback Cancel (Edit Mode)
If you want to Search and Destroy feedback and then save the setting into a program location, follow the directions below. 1 Select a program in the Play mode and make note of the number. Move the switch to the Edit position. 2 Step on and hold down the Feedback Cancel footswitch for several seconds until the LED above the switch starts flashing. Release the footswitch and dampen the strings with one hand, then raise the Output Level or your amplifier volume until feedback starts. 3 When the LED stops flashing but remains on, the Feedback Cancel circuit has automatically found and eliminated the feedback. 4 Move the Edit/Play switch to the Play position to save the Feedback Cancel into the program. 5 Whenever you return to this program, the saved Feedback Cancel filter will engage.
The Data Knob is a general-purpose control that gets you to and from where you need to go within the Aura. Its action is always reflected in the Auras LED display. In the Play Mode, use the Data knob to move through your program locations (01-50). In the Edit Mode, use the Data knob to change the behavior of the selected parameter. In tuner mode, the Data Knob can change the pitch calibration frequency to anywhere between 427 and 453 Hz.
Programmed Feedback Cancel, Normally Off
When you want to have the Feedback circuit dialed in a specific program location, but you want it normally off so you can recall the setting only when you need it. Follow the above procedure, and then go back to the Edit mode. Tap the footswitch so the Feedback Cancel LED turns off. Switch back to Play. The saved Feedback Cancel notch in that program location will now be normally off and you can turn it on by tapping the Feedback Cancel footswitch. The Feedback Cancel can remember different notch filter settings for each of the 50 programs in the play mode. The Effect on/off Switch lets you bypass the blended sound image/pickup mixes in both the Play and Edit Modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Aura's outputs. Use the Effect on/off Switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see page 22) and to compare your raw pickup sound to the enhanced sound.

Effect on/off Switch

Note that Feedback Cancel is not available when the Tuner is engaged.

Chapter 2

Inner Workings Tuner
The Effect on/off lets you bypass the blended sound image/pickup mixes in both the Play and Edit modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Auras outputs. Use the Effect on/off switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see Level above) and to compare your raw pickup sound to the processed sound.

C Compression - Chords and Rhythm
The C compression is optimized for chordal accompaniment and has a smooth sustained effect that is right for strumming. The amount of compression is selectable between 1 and 9 dB and corresponds with the numbers in the display.
L Compression - Lead, Flatpicking and Finger style
The L compressor highlights a quick percussive attack and is ideal for flatpicking or finger style. To access L compression, scroll past the highest setting for C compression. The amount of compression is selectable between 1 and 9 dB and corresponds with the numbers in the display.
Why a Global Phase Switch?
Any time you plug in, there is a 50% chance that the sound of the speaker and the instrument will clash in some way. The clash can manifest itself as a loss of bass response at low volumes or (more often) acoustic feedback at high volumes. The phase switch simply lets you put the instrument and the speaker in agreement. The method for setting the switch is equally as simple: flip the switch and listen. The correct position for the switch is the one that works for you.
This control is for matching or normalizing the baseline levels of the various programs you create with the Aura. You will find that with differences in equalization and compression, one program can unintentionally become louder or softer than another. When you finish making parameter adjustments in a program, turn the Parameter control to Level and toggle the Effect on/off switch. If there is a difference in level between the two, adjust the level with Data control until the two levels match. You can also use the Level parameter to preset a hotter level in a program that you intend to use for soloing.
Phase (pickup phase, located on the Parameter knob, switched by Data knob)
The selection marked Phase on the Parameter knob lets you flip the polarity of the pickup signal 180 degrees. With this control you can align the pickup signal with the Aura Digital Sound Image for a stronger and more cohesive sound. Use the Data control to flip between + polarity (0 in the display) and -polarity (1 in the display).
Why a Phase Switch on the Parameter Knob?
A Sound Image is created from an actual microphone in front of a guitar. So the distance of the mic from the instrument and the polarity of the mic capsule will contribute to relative phase of the signal. Because the Aura blends a Sound Image signal with a pickup signal there is a 50% chance that the two will clash. The clash will manifest itsef as a loss of bass response, shrill treble, and a generally anemic tone. The phase switch located on the parameter knob simply lets you put the pickup and Sound Image into agreement. The method for setting the switch is simple: set the Parameter knob to Phase, toggle the Data knob and listen. The correct position for the switch is the one that produces the strongest sound.

Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Mid control. The default Mid setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut midrange, turn the Data knob left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost midrange, turn the Data knob right and the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB. The Mid control is centered at 1kHz. And affects how well the instrument blends in or stands out in the mix. Cut midrange to make the sound more transparent, especially at high volume levels.
1 Start with the Edit/Play switch in the Play position and select a program. Make note of the number of the program and move the switch to the Edit position. 2 Turn the Parameter knob to Blend and turn the Data knob clockwise until the letter A (Aura effect only, no pickup) appears in the display. 3 Raise the Output Level. 4 Play your instrument and flip the Phase slide switch back and forth. The desirable position for the switch is the one where the instrument and speaker work in agreement together and feedback is minimized. Note: If you change your position, you may also need to change the position of the Phase switch to maintain the positive relationship between the instrument and the speaker. 5 Turn the Parameter knob back to Blend and adjust the Data knob counter-clockwise until the number 4 (50% Aura effect, 50% pickup) appears in the display. 6 Turn the Parameter control to the Phase position (Pickup phase). 7 Play your instrument, turn the Data knob clockwise (1 on the LED Display), then counter-clockwise (0 on the LED Display). Listen to the differences in sound quality and choose the position that sounds the most natural with the strongest bass. 8 Move the Edit/Play switch to the Play position to commit the pickup phase switch setting to the program.

Treble

Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Treble control. The default Treble setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut treble, turn the Data knob left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost treble, turn the Data knob right and the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB. Boosting here will add "air" to the sound. Cutting the treble will mellow and subdue your amplified tone.
Phase (Pickup Phase, located on the Parameter Knob, switched by the Data knob)

Aura Equalization

The bracketed Bass, Mid and Treble parameters next to the Aura designation are for equalizing the Sound Image in the mix. We recommend that you use these controls sparingly, especially when boosting. Most often a very slight cut or boost is all that is needed get a Sound Image dialed in. Set Blend to A when you equalize the Sound Image.
You can choose how the Aura changes programs in Play Mode Instant Change Mode (factory default)
In the Instant Change Mode the program changes as soon as you hit the up or down footswitch.
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Bass control. The default Bass setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut bass, turn the Data knob left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost bass, turn the Data knob right and the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB. Dial in the bass to add depth or subtract boominess from the Sound Image. The bass control for the Aura is normalized, which means that when you boost Bass, the volume stays the same. Only boost Bass if you have weak bass response from the instrument, common with thin body acoustic/electric guitars. Cut Bass if you the sound produced is very boomy, as is often the case with large rosewood body guitars.
TO ENABLE: Hold down the right footswitch for over 2 seconds, while plugging in 9V power plug. The prompt 88 will appear in the display.

Pre-select Change Mode

In the pre-select change mode, you can continue playing in one program while you scroll through to the next program with the up and down footswitches. Hit the Up or Down footswitch and the LEDs above them will start flashing Once you find the program you are looking for, hit the Feedback Cancel footswitch and you will switch to the new program. Note that you have about three seconds after you take your foot off the program change switch to hit the Feedback Cancel and switch to the new program. Otherwise the program reverts to where it was when you started.
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Treble control. The default Treble setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut treble, turn the Data knob left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost treble, turn the Data knob right and the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB. Boosting here will add air to the sound. Cutting the treble will mellow and subdue your amplified tone.
TO ENABLE: Hold down the middle footswitch for over 2 seconds while plugging in 9V power plug. The prompt 88 will appear in the display. NOTE: Once enabled, Pre-select Change will be the normal operating state for the up/down footswitches.

Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Blend control.
The default Sound Image / pickup Blend setting is 6, or 75% Sound Image and is set up mainly for demonstration purposes. You will find that a blend with equal or less Sound Image and more pickup is effective for performance. Turn the Data knob left for more of the Aura Sound Image and right for more of the pickup.
Resetting the Aura to Factory Specs
You can easily return all the programs in the Play mode to the original factory settings with these 3 easy steps: 1 Unplug the 9VDC plug at the back of the Aura. 2 Hold down the two outside footswitches and insert the power plug into the unit. 3 Continue to hold down the outside footswitches until the prompt appears in the display Note: Sound Images downloaded from www.fishmanaura.com will not be replaced by original Factory Sound Images.

A = all Sound Image

Suggested settings for Blend

P = all pickup

4 = 50/50
For most performing situations, you will get the best balance of pickup and digital Sound Image with the Blend set to 3 or 4 in the display (6250% Pickup). This gives your live sound a good solid foundation as the pickup supplies a strong focused tone and the Sound Image gives you just enough ambience for a credible acoustic performance without feedback. Note that too much Sound Image in the mix can blur your sound at high volumes and is more prone to feedback. For recording you may wish to set the Blend so that only the Sound Image appears in the mix (A). Many engineers like to mix in just a little pickup in a recording to bring the instrument more into focus. In this case, set the blend to 7 or 8.

Pickup Equalization

The bracketed Bass, Mid and Treble parameters next to the Pickup designation are for equalizing the pickup signal. You can use these controls liberally to help dial in your pickup sound. Often a bit of bass and treble boost and a slight midrange cut is in order to get the pickup sound dialed in. Set Blend to P when you equalize the pickup.
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Bass control. The default Bass setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut bass, turn the Data knob left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost bass, turn the Data knob right and the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB. Dial in the bass to add depth or subtract boominess from the Sound Image. Only boost Bass if you have weak bass response from the instrument, i.e. with a thin body acoustic/electric guitar. Cut bass if you the sound produced is very boomy, as is often the case with larger instruments. The Effect on/off lets you bypass the blended sound image/pickup mixes in both the Play and Edit modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Aura's outputs. Use the Effect on/off switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see page 22) and to compare your raw pickup sound to the processed sound. The green indicates that the effect is on.

Any time you want to change the parameters in a program location (ex: change the Sound Image, the EQ, blend, compression, etc.), or configure an unused program: 1 Start with the switch in Play. 2 Use the Data control or the Up and Down switches to locate the program number you wish to configure. 3 Move the switch to the Edit position. Now you can access the items listed around the Parameter knob. 4 Use the Data control to adjust the behavior of each selected parameter. 5 Once you are satisfied with the adjustments youve made, move the switch from Edit to Play and your changes will be saved to the last selected program location.
Cant find the Sound Image(s) to fit your instrument?
Not to worry. We are constantly adding new Sound Images to our catalog that you can download to your computer and then transfer to Aura. Log on to www.fishmanaura.com for more details.
Still cant find the perfect Sound Image after visiting our website?
Send your instrument to the Aura Custom Shop and we will create a custom Sound Image file tailored precisely for your instrument.
Mix and Match Body Styles
While the thought of transforming a diminutive plywood guitar into a vintage high end instrument is intriguing, this is really not the Auras intended use. Although we encourage you to experiment, we cannot guarantee that your instrument will be compatible with all the available Sound Images. You might get good results mixing and matching your instrument with a Sound Image of a different body style. If your instrument has lots of natural personality, with strong resonances and complex harmonics, it will clash with Sound Images that are derived from differing body styles. For instance, a handmade lightly braced concert size guitar will not match well with a dreadnought Sound Image, because the distinct personality of the guitar will not agree with the specific resonances and radiation patterns of the dreadnought Sound Image The cases in which weve had success mixing and matching various Sound Image body styles have been when the source instrument has a fairly neutral, non-descript sound to start. Laminated guitars, thin bodied acoustic/electrics and heavily braced instruments seem to be good candidates. In these cases, the Aura Sound Image can add its personality to a more neutral and less resonant instrument.

www.shman.com

USER GUIDE AURA SIXTEEN

Welcome

Thank you for making Fishman a part of your acoustic experience. We are proud to offer you the nest acoustic amplication products available; high-quality professional-grade tools to empower you to sound your very best. We are condent Aura Sixteen will both enhance and inspire your music making.

Quick Start

Power Install a 9V alkaline or lithium battery (not included). Set the controls Volume at minimum, select at #1 and blend at its mid-point. Plug in Use standard -inch shielded instrument cables. Place any other pedals after Aura Sixteen. Set trim Play hard and adjust input trim (right side) so clip/batt LED ashes occasionally. Select an Image Raise the volume and audition the 16 Images with the select knob. Since Aura Sixteen ships with dreadnought Images, its important to use a dreadnought style guitar or see page 12 on downloading Images for your instrument. Blend to taste turn left for more pickup and right for more Image. Kill feedback If feedback starts, change the position of the phase switch. Bypass Step on the foot switch to alternate between blended Image sound and dry pickup (this is the default setting). Mute To alternate between blended Image sound and mute, hold the foot switch down until the LED ashes. Repeat to return to bypass.

What is Aura?

Aura Acoustic Imaging Technology uses digital algorithms developed in Fishmans audio laboratories to restore a studio-miked sound to an acoustic instrument. To achieve this, we record instruments using worldclass microphones and techniques to capture an Image of the natural sound that your acoustic instrument emits when miked in a professional studio. This Image, when recorded direct or played through an amp, mixer or PA, blends with your instruments pickup to produce an incredibly accurate recreation of the original recording. Aura Acoustic Imaging processors sound best when used with Fishman undersaddle pickups and magnetic soundhole pickups. When we record each instrument, we use our Acoustic Matrix undersaddle pickup. So, when you play through an Aura processor, youll get the best results using our Acoustic Matrix pickup. We do not recommend soundboard-mounted pickups, bridge-plate pickups, multi-sensor pickups or microphones for Aura products since they include unnecessary resonances that can interfere with the Aura processing.

Choosing an Image

To get the most realistic tone from Aura Acoustic Imaging, you should always match your Images with the instrument type youre playing. For example, choose dreadnought Images when plugging in a dreadnought body style guitar; choose mandolin Images if youre playing a mandolin. Dont hope to derive a mandolin sound from a dreadnought or try to turn your orchestra body style guitar into a 12-string. If you are not sure which body type your guitar falls into, we suggest you audition several Images from using the search tools in the Aura Image Gallery and let your ears decide. See page 12 for details on Downloading Images.

Aura Custom Shop

For the ultimate in Aura Imaging, be sure to check out the Aura Custom Shop at shman.com. For a modest fee, you send us your instrument and well create a set of Images using our best microphones, custom recorded for you.

Aura Image Gallery

The Aura Image Gallery software manages a vast library of Images created from an ever-expanding list of instruments, and provides tools to search and store sets of Images. Browse the Image Library to nd your instrument, then drag and drop an Image into an Image Set for download into Aura Sixteen. If you own an Aura Imaging Pedal, you can upgrade your device to access the Aura Image Gallery. Be sure to check out page 13 for details.

Making Connections

Playing live For the best sound reproduction when performing live, connect your Aura Sixteen to an acoustic instrument amp, PA system, powered monitor or other full-range system. Going direct For direct recording, there is no better solution than using Aura Sixteen. In fact, an acoustic track recorded with just a pickup can be re-recorded using Aura to restore the miked sound.

About the Images

Dreadnought Aura Sixteen comes pre-loaded with 16 Images recorded using the most popular dreadnought guitars. Be sure to check out the section on Downloading Images (pg. 12) from the Aura Image Gallery if youre not playing a dreadnought style guitar.

Image # 15 16

Top Wood Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Spruce Composite Spruce Spruce
Back and Sides Rosewood Mahogany Rosewood Rosewood Rosewood Rosewood Rosewood Rosewood Rosewood Rosewood Mahogany Rosewood Rosewood Composite Rosewood Mahogany
Microphone Type DPA 4011 Soundelux E47 Soundelux E47 Neumann KM84 Schoeps CMC64 Schoeps CMC64 Shure KSM141 Neumann M147 Neumann M147 Schoeps CMC64 AKG C414 Neumann U87 Neumann U87 DPA 4011 Neumann M147 Shure SM57
Fishman Transducers, Inc. is not afliated with any of the forementioned companies or their respective trademarks, registered trademarks, product models or copyrights.

Using effects

When using your Aura Sixteen with other effects devices, place the Aura Sixteen rst in the chain after your guitar.

Left Side Panel

Output Use a standard -inch instrument cable to connect the output to your amplier, mixer or effects devices. You can also connect this output to an unbalanced input on a recording system. 9VDC Power may be supplied by either a 9V battery (battery compartment underneath the pedal) or the Fishman 910-R (for 110V). Insert a plug into the input jack, and Aura Sixteen powers up. To conserve the battery, remove the plug from the input when not in use. The clip/batt indicator will light steadily when it is time to change the battery. When the clip/batt LED comes on you have approximately one hour of remaining battery life. For AC power, use the Fishman 910-R (for 110V) or other suitable 9V adapter (see Specications).

Right Side Panel

Input Plug in your instrument here with a standard -inch instrument cable. If you have a passive undersaddle pickup (no battery onboard), always plug into Aura Sixteen rst, even if you use a pedal tuner. Insert a plug into the input jack, and Aura Sixteen powers up. To conserve the battery, remove the plug from the input when not in use. T rim Raise or lower the trim to optimize the input level for your pickup. Play hard and adjust trim so clip/batt ashes occasionally. Some pickup systems may not cause the light to ash at all and other onboard preamps may require you to turn their output down to achieve an optimum level.

Controls

Volume
For the cleanest signal, set the volume as high as possible without clipping the next device in the signal chain. If you hear distortion and the clip/batt light is not ashing, reduce the volume.

Select

The 16 Images you can choose with the select knob are hand picked for a dreadnought body style guitar. Try all 16 and pick the ones that compliment your playing style and sound good in the room. For example, dark/deep sounding Images may add impact to a solo performance. Brighter/lighter Images may compliment an ensemble. There are no rules; try them all and decide which works best for you. Blend Position the blend knob straight-up at 12 oclock and youll hear a 50/50 mix of Image and pickup. Turn the blend more more all the way right for just Image; all the way pickup Image left for just pickup. Most performers blend in some pickup with the Image for clarity and denition. Suggestions For live performance try backing off the Image by setting blend to about 10 or 11 oclock or about 65% pickup. You wont need too much Image blended in to achieve a great live sound. If feedback occurs, ip the phase switch. For recording, try blending in more Image for a realistic acoustic sound. Set the blend to taste. Again, youll often get good results with a little bit of pickup blended in with the Image for clarity and denition.

Controls (continued)

Phase switch
Use the phase switch to improve bass response at low volume or to control feedback at high volume. Play your guitar and toggle the phase switch back and forth until you achieve the desired result. Foot switch Step on the foot switch to bypass the Aura effect. When you stomp, youll hear the dramatic difference between the Image blend and the dry pickup. When the light above the foot switch is on, the Image is active. Note when the effect is bypassed, your guitar signal remains buffered. Also, if the blend knob is set to 7 oclock, you will hear no difference between active and bypass states.

Mute (optional mode)

You may set up the foot switch to alternate between the Image blend and muted output. To enable the mute option, hold the foot switch down until the LED ashes. Repeat to return to bypass.

Downloading Images

The Aura Image Gallery software manages a vast library of Images created from an ever-expanding list of instruments, and provides tools to search and store sets of Images. If you cant nd your exact instrument in the list, use the built-in Image Wizard to nd the closest match. For example, if one of our hundreds of Images doesnt match your instrument exactly, you can still nd a great sounding Image by matching similar tone woods and body styles. Experiment with these tools, and use your ears to determine what sounds best for your playing or musical style. To access this library of additional instrument Images, install the Aura Image Gallery on your computer. Then, gently remove the USB cover from the back of the unit and connect the included USB cable to the side of the preamp and your computer. Create a new Image Set and load your Images into Aura Sixteen. Be sure to install the Aura Image Gallery software prior to connecting Aura Sixteen for the rst time.

USB mini jack

Upgrading an Aura Imaging Pedal
If you own any of the following Aura Imaging Pedals, you can upgrade your pedal, allowing it to connect to the Aura Image Gallery and download Images. For example, if you own a dreadnought body style Imaging pedal for your guitar, but also play resophonic guitar, the upgrade will allow you to download resophonic Images into your dreadnought pedal so that you can use both instruments with one pedal. Dreadnought Orchestra Concert Jumbo Nylon 12 String
Downloading Images into an Aura Imaging Pedal will allow you to disconnect from the computer and continue to use those Images for recording or on stage. 1. Go to www.shman.com/aura to purchase the upgrade. 2. Expose the USB jack by prying the metal plate from the back of the Aura Imaging Pedal.

3. Install the Aura Image Gallery software, then connect the pedal to your computer using a mini USB type B cable. When prompted, enter the authorization code you received in step 1.

Specications

Input impedance: Input trim gain range: 10M Ohm -10dB to +2dB
Nominal Output impedance: 3.5k Ohm Max. Output level (onset of clipping): +2.4dBV Digital signal path: A/D, D/A conversion: Signal processing: Baseline noise: Dynamic range: Power supply: Typical in-use current consumption: Typical 9V battery life: 9V adapter (optional): 24-bit 32-bit -92dBV (A-weighted) 94dB (A-weighted) 9V battery or 9VDC adapter 18mA 27 hours using alkaline battery 54 hours using lithium battery) Fishman 910-R (for 110V) or suitable ltered & regulated, 200mA type, tip = negative 5.5mm O.D., 2mm I.D. Left position = non-inverting

Phase switch:

All specications subject to change without notice
Fishman and Fishman Transducers are trademarks or tradenames of Fishman Transducers Inc.

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