Fishman Matrix Infinity VT | Part 1

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Matrix Infinity VT - Introduction

In this post, the first of three, we begin an in-depth visual examination of the Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Pickup & Preamp System. This system was installed in a Yamaha F-210 acoustic guitar more than three years ago by a renowned KL tech. As it's been quite a while since it was last looked at, the F-210 is now in the shop for servicing. However, before we go any further, allow me to share three links to valuable sources of information on the Matrix Infinity VT.

• Matrix Infinity VT Pickup & Preamp System
• Matrix Infinity VT User Guide
• Matrix Infinity Install Guide

Main Components and Signal Flow

First, let's look at a collage of the four main components that make up the Matrix Infinity VT Pickup & Preamp System. Going clockwise, from top left, we have the Fishman Acoustic Matrix® Undersaddle Pickup, Matrix Infinity VT Preamp Module, Matrix Infinity VT Control Module; and 9V Battery Bag. The next image shows Fishman's recommended installation locations for these four elements. Finally, the third image is a simplified signal flow diagram that sums up the correlation between components. 

Matrix Infinity VT - Components

Recommended Location of Components

Matrix Infinity VT - Signal Flow

The Acoustic Matrix® Undersaddle Pickup, as the name implies, is installed in the saddle slot of the bridge, directly underneath the saddle. Next comes the Matrix Infinity VT Preamp Module. As this module is mounted to the Switchcraft® endpin jack, it must be installed through a hole in the tail block. Third on the list is the Matrix Infinity VT Control Module, which controls volume and EQ of the signal from the Acoustic Matrix® Undersaddle Pickup. Fishman recommends that the Control Module be mounted underneath the bass side of the soundhole, flush with the edge. 

Acoustic Matrix® Undersaddle Pickup

Preamp Module Endpin Jack

Infinity VT Control Module

Last but not least is the 9V Battery Bag. This is basically a black fabric bag with a Velcroed flap and underside, and is where the 9V battery is secured. This battery powers up the system whenever a guitar cable is plugged into the endpin jack. Therefore, to conserve battery life, the guitar cable should be unplugged when the system is not in use. As per Fishman's recommendation, the tech who installed the Infinity VT System attached the battery bag to the the neck block with Velcro. However, as the bag kept falling off the neck block, I've reinstalled it right over the soundhole label.

Battery Bag - Original Location

Battery Bag - Current Location