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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/408591
JLMusicUK - Posted - 05/14/2026: 15:25:23
I have recently invested in a ToneDexter which works like a dream with my Mandolin. I have a PUTW banjo pickup which does sound decent with the ToneDexter but I’m debating adding either the EMG ACB Barrel or the Fishman Rare Earth. Does anyone have any experience using either with a ToneDexter and if so which gives the most ‘acoustic’ sound. I realise this isn’t as good as a gooseneck mic but the volume of the band wouldn’t allow this,
Thanks in advance.
Old Hickory - Posted - 05/14/2026: 16:29:44
Listen to episode 153 of the Picky Fingers Banjo Podcast, where Keith - the host - does a ToneDexter Wavemap Shootout, testing ToneDexter with five different pickups and three different microphones.
To my ear, the EMG ACB Barrel sounded the best - the most natural. I forget which mic I liked best.
I've had a Pickup the World for 15 or so years but haven't played amplified since 2020. I used an LR Baggs Para Acoustic DI and had to dial everything back to keep the banjo from being too boomy and percussive. I could never get natural sound. But my main goal was just to be heard.
If I were still playing out I'd definitely get a ToneDexter. And probably the EMG Barrel. I like the price of the Hatfield-Jones pickup better.
Good luck.
Edited by - Old Hickory on 05/14/2026 16:31:17
BigFiveChord - Posted - 05/15/2026: 04:49:28
In my experience both sound great (very similar actually) and both work very well with the Tonedexter. I prefer the EMG bc it doesn’t require soldering and I can put it in and take it out as I please.
JLMusicUK - Posted - 05/16/2026: 22:16:44
Cheers for your advice. I’m going to give the ACB barrel a shot I think. I’ll let you know how I get on.
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