At the Winter NAMM show, Radial Engineering introduced the Tonebone PZ-Pre, a compact full-function acoustic instrument preamplifier designed for studio and live performance.
The PZ-Pre is a unique two channel pedal that is equipped with piezo acoustic input signal boosters to allow both ‘add-on’ instrument pickups and built-in, integral active preamps to be combined for a more natural rendering.
“Before we set out to build the PZ-Pre we invested a year discussing options with all types of musicians including Nashville acoustic slingers, Tennessee blue grass pickers, violinists, contra-bass players and then the many guitar technicians and sound engineers that have to deal with problems such as feedback on stage,” said Radial president Peter Janis. “Critical issues that came up time and time again were sound quality, ability to use more than one instrument at a time, quiet tuning on stage, the problems with piezo pickups, noise, feedback and robust signal distribution to the various audio points. Finally, the end product had to be small enough to fit in a gig bag so that the musician could take it on an airplane.”
The Tonebone PZ-Pre™ instrument preamp begins with two inputs for two instruments. These can be toggled using the toggle footswitch. Each input is then equipped with a separate piezo buffer with a proper 5megOhm input so that we get the maximum frequency response from the element. For those wishing to use two pickups on a single guitar, a unique Mix function is provided that converts the two channels from ‘either-or’ to both. There are separate level controls for each input.
The tone shaping on the PZ-Pre is simple yet extremely musical. It features powerful bass and high controls with a semi-parametric mid. This is supported with a feedback eliminating notch filter with variable frequency sweep control and choice of normal and extra deep notch filtering. To help eliminate troublesome resonance, a dual slope low cut (high pass filter) is also provided. An internal polarity reverse can also be engaged to help eliminate run-away feedback.
To augment on-stage performance, the PZ-Pre is equipped with a combination power booster and effects loop buss. This allows the user to introduce an effect such as a chorus or boost the signal for soloing with a simple foot stomp. A separate tuner out has also been provided along with a mute footswitch for on-the-fly tuning.
To facilitate all kinds of monitoring, the PZ-Pre offers the most comprehensive output array ever: A standard instrument amp output sends the instrument signal to the musician’s personal amplifier. A pre-EQ balanced lo-Z balanced output is used to route the flat, pre-equalized signal the signal to the front of house mix position, while a second XLR out is post-EQ for on-stage monitoring and in-ear systems so that the musician can get the sound he wants. XLR outputs are equipped with polarity reverse and ground lift.
Like all radial products, the PZ-Pre features heavy-duty 14 gauge construction and is supported with a 3-year transferable warranty. Comes equipped with an external 15VDC power supply.
Tonebone PZ-Pre suggested list price: $375 USD
