Description
Amplifying our instrument seems to be one of those necessary evils. Whether it is a Symphony under the Stars or a small combo most stringed instruments need some boost to project to the audience and be heard alongside percussionists and brass players.
Until recently most piezo type pickups have been placed in some way on the bridge of the instrument. This has the immediate effect of acting as a mute. This might not be a problem when amplified but is nuisance for the rest of the time as it means constantly pulling it on and off. The Realist pickup is placed under the foot of the bridge and makes very little, if any difference to the sound of the instrument. Installation is simple and generally stays on the bass at all times.
David Gage and Ned Steinberger (the creators) felt a transducer should be equal in its ability to recreate an acoustic pizzicato and arco sound through commonly used amplifiers. Furthermore, this pick-up had to be simple, dependable, and affordable. After years of consideration and tests, they have come up with a system that achieves all of these goals.
David Gage says, “We understand the hours of practice it takes to draw your sound out of your instrument, and with this pick-up we feel your voice can be heard more accurately through an amplifier. Both recording engineers and professional musicians have been startled by the great tone and even response when playing pizzicato and arco.
There are many variables with amplifiers, leads, and other sound reinforcement equipment and there are no perfect solutions. However, the Realist is simple, intelligently designed and one of the best solutions currently available.
John Patitucci (Bassist) The most natural sounding pick-up I’ve ever heard. You wouldn’t believe the sound of it through my rig. It feels great — I’m totally into it. I’m really happy with it. It’s easy, I love it. I can go from pizzicato to arco without any hesitation.
