FAQ
Currently, our product lineup includes:
the2Mic-EndPinâ„¢
the2Mic-EndPin:Deluxeâ„¢
the2Mic-Studioâ„¢
Here's a brief rundown of each model:
the2Mic-EndPin:This is the original 2Mic model and it offers a straightforward "plug 'n play" format. It's compatible with most effects pedals and direct boxes, making it a great choice for touring, open mics, and home studios. One of its distinguishing features is its low bass cut, as compared to other models, which are full frequency (no-pre-EQ). It uses two AA batteries mounted on the mic assembly inside the guitar, which should be replaced every two years with regular use.
the2Mic-EndPin:Deluxe:This model has been recently redesigned and now stands as the most versatile among our current offerings. Key features and benefits of the EndPin:Deluxe include:
- A separate on-board pickup can be wired together with the EndPin: Deluxe, allowing both to function in stereo through a single end pin jack (mic to tip, pickup to ring).
- External power supplies, removing the need to detach the mic assembly to change a battery.
- An EPS-2 power supply is included with the EndPin:Deluxe. (Phantom powered with a balanced mic level signal output).
- Studio-quality microphones that, when used with the EPS-2, produce tone qualities and low noise levels that match those of our original MiniFlex Model 7 (our previous end pin mounted studio model which is no longer available).
the2Mic-Studio:This is our latest model, developed in partnership with Bill Kanengiser of the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. The Studio model excels in its category with superior tone reproduction. Its Quick Mount design ensures a hassle-free installation in under a minute, with no modifications needed for your guitar. While it's ideally suited for studio use, it also delivers exceptional performance for live shows.
The interior of the guitar immediately below the soundhole has the highest sound pressure level for any location on the instrument. This high sound pressure level drives a mic element at the most efficient level possible. Efficiency increases the phasing effect for the 2Mic so that feedback is under control while also creating a powerful & dense electronic signal so there is plenty of headroom for the PA amplifier. Plenty of headroom is always desirable.
A sound hole also acts as a natural mixer for a guitar. Approximately three inches away from the sound hole is where the most complete mixture of well balanced frequencies is located. Having one mic outside the sound hole where there is a full mix of frequencies, and one mic inside the guitar where the sound pressure is highest achieves the very best possible combination of tone quality and feedback control.
All the2Mic models utilize cardioid (unidirectional) electret condenser microphone elements. These microphones feature a highly selective reception pattern, designed specifically to minimize feedback. It's crucial to position them properly for the best sound quality. (For more information on optimal microphone placement, please see our follow-up questions on the topic.)
The the2Mic-EndPin and the2Mic-EndPin:Deluxe are installed in place of the strap button through the tail-block of the guitar. Installing such an output jack is now a common and sometimes standard feature for many guitars.
All the2Mic-Studio use a quick mount design having a unique padded clamping system which mounts quickly and with no modification to the instrument.
Battery change for the2Mic-EndPin is not difficult and batteries only need to be changed every 2 years. We do recommend changing the batteries at the same time strings are being changed. If needed, take it to a repair service center for changing the strings and battery. And your guitar needs a tune up once a year too. An installation tool for installing and battery change is included with your purchase. After installation save this tool to later change the batteries.
the2Mic-EndPin:Deluxe has it's own external power supply, removing the need to detach the mic assembly to change the battery.
The battery lifespan for the2Mic-EndPin model is around 1,500 hours when powered by a pair of new, high-quality AA batteries. However, for most users, the batteries' shelf life tends to exceed their actual usage time. That's why we recommend replacing the batteries at least every two years. A noteworthy feature is that the output jack serves as a switch, activating the batteries only when a plug is inserted. Therefore, to conserve battery life, ensure you remove the plug from the output jack when not in use.
Having one mic located near the sound hole and one mic located under the bridge generally produces the best tone quality for end pin mounted models.
Every guitar has different and unique air patterns inside the body, and end pin mounted mics have almost infinite placement options available.
The2Mic-EndPin features a white dot on the windscreen of each mic element. This dot signifies the direction from which the mic picks up acoustic sound energy or sound pressure. Conversely, the The2Mic-EndPin:Deluxe comes with mics mounted on a swivel, capturing sound directly from the front. As such, the Deluxe model doesn't require a white dot to denote directionality.
Mic Near the Sound Hole - Consider a clock for reference, where the end of the fingerboard is "12" and the bridge is "6". We suggest initially positioning the mic at the "4" location:
- Just beneath the sound hole's edge
- Roughly 1 inch (25 mm) beneath the soundboard
- Aimed across the sound hole.
You can adjust the gooseneck to direct this mic towards the guitar's back if you wish.
Mic Under the Bridge - We suggest starting with this mic at the guitar's center, directly under the bridge, and angled about 10 degrees off from dead center. For a more potent (punchy) sound, move this mic as close to the soundboard as possible. Many customers have achieved excellent results by directing the active face of this mic towards the guitar's treble side (90 degrees off-axis to the soundboard), and by positioning the mic closer to the guitar's treble side (under the bridge's treble wing).
Both Mics Under the Bridge - By positioning both mics under the bridge, you can sometimes achieve a punchy yet natural sound. Bend the longer gooseneck so that this mic is under the bridge's bass side while the mic on the shorter gooseneck is located on the bridge's treble side. We recommend directing the two mics in roughly opposite directions. However, feel free to experiment with this alternative mic placement.