Intended for acoustic guitar, bass, or any other acoustic instrument with a pickup and a 1/4" output, the Fishman Platinum Pro EQ is a preamp and DI boasting an analog signal path, onboard compression, and a variety of tone-shaping options. Connections are possible via 1/4" input and 1/4" output jacks, though there’s also an XLR DI for feeding audio straight to the house’s PA, mixer, or a recording interface. This output is pre-/post-EQ switchable, meaning you can route a tonally shaped or unprocessed signal through this section of the preamp. Also provided are 1/4" send and return jacks for patching in external devices to further enhance and affect your overall sound.
The preamp itself utilizes a high-headroom Class-A design, with a 5-band EQ section that can be voiced separately, by means of a switch for bass or guitar. An integrated compressor allows you to level your signal, the effects of which can result in more sustain and a more even tone on stage. A phase switch, combined with a notch filter with a sweepable frequency, aids you in the never-ending battle against feedback in live scenarios.
A built-in tuner, accurate to 0.5 cents, can be switched on to help you quickly check your tuning or re-tune between songs. To add a little more volume for solos or other stand-out sections, a boost footswitch has been provided, its level of gain adjustable by means of a pot located on the side of the unit. Here you’ll also find an input trim pot to better attenuate your pickups to the signal path provided by the Platinum Pro. The pedal can be powered with a 9V battery, or with an optional power supply.
Bass: A boost here will add depth and weight to the sound of an instrument with light bass response. Cut the bass a few dB to tighten up the boomy tone of a dreadnought or jumbo guitar.
Middle: Two controls (level and frequency) make up this EQ circuit. The frequency control lets you tune in on a specific midrange frequency range which you can boost or cut.
Treble: This knob will help you cut through the mix, or conversely, mellow and subdue an already shrill tone.
Brilliance: This control is intended to add shimmer and sparkle to your sound or reduce excessive finger noise and fret buzz.
The phase switch flips the polarity of your instrument's signal from positive to negative, changing its relationship to the sound coming from the amplifier. One phase setting usually provides better resistance to feedback than the other, and will vary depending on the instrument and playing environment.
