Need Help Selecting L.R. Baggs Pickup for My Breedlove Acoustic

[Jiffster]

I have a 1993 Breedlove acoustic and I have finally decided to get a pickup for it. My goal is to install a pickup/system that will capture the essence of this guitars tone the best. When using the pickup, I will be playing the a Fractal Audio Axe-FX II into my DAW or a FRFR system and a PA system, in part, to take advantage of the Axe-FX’s effects.

If I can do this with minimal or no modifications, that’s my preference. If I need to install an “Anthem” system, so be it.

If I do need an Anthem system, would an Anthem SL suffice or should I opt for the Anthem?

I use primarily a pick and use hybrid picking a little. I consider myslef to be a bit of an aggressive player at times.

Appreciate the help!

[Caleb_Elling]

Hey jiffster,
I definitely prefer the Anthem SL for getting a natural sound that can work well in a wide variety of situations. If you want an option with fewer modifications, then the M80 or the Lyric would be good options too.

The Lyric would definitely be the most natural sounding option of the bunch, but the M80 would likely be better with the use of effects. The Lyric works well with effects (especially reverb and some delays), however, since most guitar effects are designed around the electric guitar, a magnetic pickup like the M80 has a natural advantage.

What kind of effects are you planning on using?

[Jiffster]

Hey jiffster,
I definitely prefer the Anthem SL for getting a natural sound that can work well in a wide variety of situations. If you want an option with fewer modifications, then the M80 or the Lyric would be good options too.

The Lyric would definitely be the most natural sounding option of the bunch, but the M80 would likely be better with the use of effects. The Lyric works well with effects (especially reverb and some delays), however, since most guitar effects are designed around the electric guitar, a magnetic pickup like the M80 has a natural advantage.

What kind of effects are you planning on using?

The effects I would use most of the time are reverb and delay, including crystal delays. But I could see using other effects at times for (pardon the pun) "affect". I would have reverb and/or delay on most of the time though.

I would love it if a less intrusive option like the M80 would do the trick for me. I wish I could hear the differences to help decide.

The Lyric doesn't require the mods that the Anthem does though, correct?

I must admit though reading th reviews for the Anthem (and SL) sure make it sound inviting.

Edit: I must admit, reading through reviews of the "Lyric" that this option is sounding like it might be the way to go for excellent reproduction and minimal mods.

[Caleb_Elling]

The only additional modification that the Anthem(s) require is the hole for the undersaddle pickup. The Lyric and the M80 would still use the 1/2" hole in the tail block, just like the Anthem. The advantage that the M80 has is that the output cable can be run out of the sound hole, if you don't want to do any modifications at all. This method puts a bit more wear on the cable though.

[Jiffster]

Well, I think I've settled on the Anthem SL. There is a very reputable local luthier that highly recomends L.R. Baggs Anthem and Lyric and is very experienced with Breedlove guitars and their bridge truss system. I'm looking at having it installed probably in the next 2 weeks.

Excited.

[Jiffster]

Caleb,
I purchased the Anthem SL and dropped it off along with my 1993 Breedlove today at a very reputable Luthier who installs and recommends LR Baggs. My 1993 Breedlove's bracing system is a little different than the newer ones and the luthier stated it may be a bit tricky to locate the Tru-Mic.

Have you ran across this issue and if so, do you have any recommendations I could pass along to him?

[Caleb_Elling]

I've done quite a few installs on Breedlove guitars, but almost all of them were made in the last 10 years. So I'm not sure exactly what your Luthier is talking about.

The JLD Truss is usually the main concern. However, the mic doesn't have to be placed in the "stock" position mentioned in the manual. It can be moved, in most cases without severely altering the tone. In some situations, I've found that changing the placement actually improved the tone of the mic. If the bracing doesn't allow for the mic to go in the recommended spot, it's usually best to try a couple of different spots to see what works the best.

If your Luthier wants to ask me any questions in person to expedite the process, he can get a hold of me at 805-929-3545, or by email at [email protected].

[Jiffster]

NK8S3e

I've done quite a few installs on Breedlove guitars, but almost all of them were made in the last 10 years. So I'm not sure exactly what your Luthier is talking about.

The JLD Truss is usually the main concern. However, the mic doesn't have to be placed in the "stock" position mentioned in the manual. It can be moved, in most cases without severely altering the tone. In some situations, I've found that changing the placement actually improved the tone of the mic. If the bracing doesn't allow for the mic to go in the recommended spot, it's usually best to try a couple of different spots to see what works the best.

If your Luthier wants to ask me any questions in person to expedite the process, he can get a hold of me at 805-929-3545, or by email at [email protected].

Thanks Caleb. My Luthier called me about an hour ago and said he finished the installation. He said he experimented with the location and found a spot that he feels I'm going to be very happy with. I think he said it was behind the truss. Looking forward to hearing it.... I'll let you know my thoughts.

Thank you for the input!