Yamaha Launches First Acoustic Guitar Preamp with Mic ModelingTransforms Piezo or Magnetic Pickups Into the Sounds of World-Class Mics
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July 2, 2001Yamaha Corporation of America, Guitar Products, debuts a a new digital modeling technology with the introduction of the Yamaha AG Stomp—the world’s first acoustic guitar preamplifier to feature microphone modeling.
Equipped with Yamaha’s proprietary Acoustic Microphone Modeling (AMM) technology, the AG Stomp transforms the output of ordinary piezo and magnetic pickups—or even built-in mics—into the sounds of world-class microphones. The AG Stomp emulates eight microphone types: including condenser, dynamic and tube (in close and distant proximities), producing a natural acoustic/electric tone.
"Acoustic guitar music is not a throw-back, nor is it a passing fad," states David Bergstrom, director of marketing, Combo Group, Pro Audio & Combo Division. "Witness the popularity of the ‘unplugged’ format and the resurgence in folk-rock, for example. Yamaha is a leader in both acoustic guitar and modeling technology, and the AG Stomp combines those strengths to create an entirely new category in the acoustic guitar effects market."
The unit features a total of 60 sound programs (30 Preset/30 User) and four-band parametric EQ (Treble, Midrange, Bass and Presence with 12 dB cut/boost and sweepable frequencies). A Piezo/Mic blend knob allows the user to create the perfect mix between the pickups and the selected microphone sound. The AG Stomp also allows real-time control for up to 14 effects parameters, and up to eight simultaneously using the optional Yamaha FC7 expression pedal. On-board effects include four-band chorus, delay, limiting and three reverbs.
The AG Stomp also contains the world’s first integrated five-band programmable feedback reduction system with Auto Touch, eliminating troublesome onstage feedback. Four built-in footswitches provide easy access to programs, effects, feedback reduction and on-board Chromatic Tuner.
Other features include: balanced 1/4-in. stereo outputs (XLR to 1/4-in. adapters included) for hotter signal/noise ratio; a headphone output for practice usage or as an additional stereo output; and a digital output for clean, direct recording from the digital circuitry (44.1 kHz output in Coaxial format) to a digital recorder without signal degradation. A 9-Volt phantom power supply eliminates the need to buy batteries to power the guitar’s internal preamp.
Constructed with a sturdy metal stomp box design, the AG Stomp features an angled top, which keep the user’s foot from getting in the way of knobs and controls.
"Guitarists have been in need of a more natural-sounding effects processor that will improve the tone of a magnetic or piezo-driven acoustic guitar," states Gary Cook, Guitar product manager. "The Yamaha AG Stomp more than answers those needs by featuring a lot of ‘firsts.’ What’s more, it saves guitar players the hassle of having to spend thousands of dollars on microphones and effects. This is the ultimate acoustic guitar preamp, and the first of its kind."
Ideal for the studio, stage and the road, the Yamaha AG Stomp has a suggested retail price of $699 and will be available in September. For more information, visit their web site at www.yamaha.com. | 
