Question 1

Can anyone else confirm the "1/2 inch Step Drill Bit" is the best drill bit for this project?

Accepted Answer

The best way to drill a hole for this preamp is with a 1/2 inch step drill bit. It will be easy to center on the hole where the strap button was removed, and will gradually widen the hole out to the full 1/2" size needed, without chipping the finish. If you do not have a step drill, you can start with a 1/8" bit and then use gradually larger bits, but the hole will not be nearly as clean as that produced by a step drill bit.

Question 2

Any tips for self install?  Can anyone refer me to a jig for placement? What kind of drill bit do I need?

Accepted Answer

The IBeam Active System includes an installation jig for positioning the pickup onto the bridge plate, instructions are included. Everything is prewired and sticks into place, including the battery holder. The only drilling required is for the endpin jack, which requires a 1/2" hole where your bottom strap button is located. You can purchase a "step drill" at your local hardward store for about $10 that will make this job easy and clean, it will start at a smaller hole (about 1/8") and gradually increase the hole size in steps up to 1/2". Total installation time is around 20-30 minutes.

Question 3

I built a tele shaped semi hollow hybred guitar with standard acoustic bridge. Its hollow all around the underside of the bridge. Would this work?

Accepted Answer

It may, the guitar will need to be no thicker than an acoustic guitar under the bridge. If it is much thicker than that the body may dampen the vibration that is transferred to the pickup. This pickup works from vibration of the wood, it doesn’t pickup the magnetic field of the strings so the vibration of the bridge will be critical.

Question 4

Can this be used in a 12 string guitar?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I just installed the ibeam classical (not even the steel string ibeam, although they are virtually the same product) in a 12-string Larrivee last night and it works like a dream. I highly recommend this pickup. You can install  and remove it yourself. You can keep it if you trade a guitar. The sound is natural and pleasing.

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LR Baggs iBeam Active System with Volume Control for Steel String Guitar

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