Fishman Aura User Manual

Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Warnings  
Table of Contents  
Quick Start  
4
5
CAUTION  
Risk of electric shock.  
Do not open.  
Introduction  
Product Registration  
Welcome  
No user serviceable parts inside.  
What Is a Sound Image?  
Aura Capabilities  
Aura, the Internet and You  
Refer servicing to qualified personnel.  
Do not expose to rain or moisture.  
Controls and Rear Panel Connections  
8
Important Safety Instructions  
Rear Panel  
Front Panel  
To ensure your personal safety and the safety of others, operate this apparatus only after reading  
these instructions and heeding the warnings listed below.  
Before you operate the Aura, read the safety instructions below and keep them for reference.  
Follow all instructions.  
Chapter 1: Control Panel Overview  
The Five Basic Groups  
LED Display  
10  
Do not use this apparatus near water.  
Clean only with a dry cloth.  
Edit/Play Switch  
Data Knob  
Do not operate near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other  
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.  
Effect on/off Switch  
Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.  
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has  
been damaged in any way, such as liquid spilled or objects fallen into into the apparatus, the  
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been  
dropped.  
Chapter 2: Inner Workings  
Input /Output  
Input Level and LEDs  
Output Level  
14  
Use only with the specified AC Adapter.  
Phase Switches  
Play Mode  
Edit/Play Switch  
Programs  
Effect on/off Switch  
Edit Mode  
Edit/Play Switch  
Data Knob  
Effect on/off Switch  
Setup  
(USA) Federal Communications Commission Radio Frequency Interference Statement  
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital  
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rues. These limits are designed to provide reasonable  
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses  
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the  
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no  
guarantee the interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause  
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the  
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of  
the following measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Parameter  
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that which the receiver is  
connected.  
Select  
Aura Equalization  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
Blend  
CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the party  
Pickup Equalization  
Phase Switches  
Compressor  
Level  
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any  
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
Effect on/off Switch  
Tuner  
Feedback Cancel  
(Canada)  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
Chapter 3: Setting Up for Performance  
25  
30  
(EU Countries)  
This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC  
Appendices  
Specifications  
Glossary  
TM  
Aura  
Troubleshooting  
Factory Default Settings  
Programs  
Tested To Comply  
With FCC Standards  
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE  
3
Quick Start  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Input Requirements  
Acoustic Guitar: Use only an undersaddle pickup or a magnetic soundhole pickup.  
Other Instruments: Use only a bridge mounted pickup.  
If your pickup system has an onboard microphone, shut it off.  
If your pickup system has onboard EQ, set all the controls flat.  
TIP: Always start with the Edit/Play switch in the Play position, and  
select your program number before you switch over to the Edit mode.  
This way you will avoid inadvertently altering a program that you've  
already set up.  
Get Your Feet Wet  
1 Connect the Aura’s ¼” Output or XLR Output to your amplifier or mixer  
input.  
2 Connect your acoustic instrument to the Input jack on the rear panel.  
RESET: If you get in too deep, too quickly, you can easily return all  
the programs to their original factory settings with these 3 easy  
steps:  
3 Connect the recommended adapter to the 9VDC input to power up the  
Aura (see Controls and Connections, Rear Panel, 9VDC). Keep the  
volume down on your amplifier or mixer to avoid a loud pop that could  
damage your speakers (or your ears!).  
1 Unplug the 9VDC adapter from the back of the Aura.  
4 Play your instrument aggressively and adjust the Input Level until the  
adjacent LED (yellow) flickers regularly and the red LED does not light  
up at all.  
2 Hold down the two outside footswitches and insert the power  
plug into the unit.  
3 Continue to hold down the outside footswitches until the  
5 Set Edit/Play switch to Play.  
prompt appears in the LED display.  
6 Raise the Output Level to a comfortable volume.  
7 Browse Through The Different Sound Image / Pickup Mixes  
Use the Up and Down footswitches or the Data control to scroll  
through programs 01-16 and find a Sound Image/pickup mix that  
matches well with your instrument.  
The Aura comes with 16 factory-loaded digital “Sound Images” that  
correspond to a popular variety of acoustic guitars and microphone  
combinations. To help you identify the instrument, pickup and  
microphone associated with each program number, see to the Quick  
Reference Card included with this manual.  
Jump In the Deep End  
Once you find a Sound Image that you would like to use with your  
instrument, you can correct the phase, insert the Feedback Cancel circuit,  
blend the Sound Image with your pickup and apply equalization or  
compression. The changes you select can then be applied to the programs  
that reside in the Play mode.  
1 Start with the Edit/Play switch in the Play position, and choose a  
Sound Image/pickup mix in one of the program locations (between 01  
and 16). Make note of the program number in the display.  
2 Flip the Edit/Play switch to Edit. Select the Parameter you’d like to  
change (example; Blend) and adjust it with the Data knob. You can  
make adjustments to any of the 11 Parameters, as long as you stay in  
the Edit mode.  
Once you make your adjustments, simply flip the Edit/Play switch  
back to Play. You now have committed these changes to that program  
location. Additional tweaks can also be made at any time, by returning  
to this same program location and repeating the above directions.  
3 Unless you want to start building duplicate programs in different  
locations, do not experiment with the Select parameter just yet. Please  
be patient, and read on ....  
4
Introduction  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Product Registration  
Please fill out the Product Registration form online at  
Why register? When you do, we have your information on file should your Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender ever require warranty  
service. Your registration also keeps you on the cutting edge: we can let you know when updates and upgrades for the Aura become  
available.  
Welcome!  
We at Fishman thank you for purchasing the Aura Acoustic  
Imaging Blender. You’ll be glad you did, because the Aura is  
going to forever change the way you think about acoustic  
amplification. Whether you’re plugging in onstage, recording in  
the studio, jamming with friends or just noodling around at  
home, this little silver box will transform your amplified acoustic  
sound.  
What Is a Sound Image?  
A Sound Image is a sophisticated algorithm that transforms  
your pickup’s signal into that of a microphone in front of a guitar  
(or other stringed instrument). To transform the caterpillar  
pickup signal into the butterfly sound image, the algorithm  
seamlessly adjusts the pickup’s phase and frequency response  
to match the instrument and microphone in the Sound Image  
template. Also, signature elements like body size, radiant sound  
from the guitar, body resonance, mic distance and even the  
microphone’s personality all get added into the equation for  
amplified acoustic guitar sound with indisputable realism.  
Through the magic of cutting-edge digital technology, Aura  
grants the secret wish of every acoustic musician: dead-on  
amplified acoustic tone. No apologies. No compromises.  
Imagine the kind of realism you hear on your favorite acoustic  
recordings, but without a microphone. Aura is making instant  
believers of those who have written off pickups in the past.  
Everyone loves the sound of a well mic’d acoustic guitar. The  
transparency of a fine microphone positioned precisely at the  
elusive “sweet spot” in front of a guitar is a beautiful thing. Over  
the years, we have endeavored to capture these qualities with  
our pickup systems, with varying degrees of success. But with  
just a pickup, we could never capture the same sound quality as  
a top shelf studio microphone setup. That is, until now.  
Aura’s acoustic Sound Imaging technology holds 16 Sound  
Images; the musical, genetic material of a variety of the world’s  
choicest acoustic guitars and microphones. When you plug into  
the Aura, its advanced algorithms transform your pickup signal  
into glorious, warm and radiant mic’d-up acoustic guitar tone.  
Can a pickup ever sound as good as a microphone? The answer  
is Yes. Cast off any preconceptions of what a pickup can sound  
like and be prepared for the future of acoustic amplification. You  
have found your Aura.  
At Fishman, we set out several years ago to figure out exactly  
what it is about the interaction between a microphone and a  
guitar that is so special, and how this special relationship can be  
re-created with a pickup. We looked at the behavior of a  
vibrating guitar top and the way sound radiates off the  
instrument. We studied what a microphone “hears” compared to  
what a pickup “feels”. We joined forces with Akai Professional  
especially for the Aura project.  
If you have any questions or comments, please contact us at  
5
Introduction  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Aura Capabilities  
Size Matters  
What does it do?  
There are good reasons why acoustic guitarists gravitate toward  
one body style or another. Strummers often go for the big,  
boomy rhythm that only a dreadnought can produce.  
Fingerstylists tend to favor smaller instruments, like the grand  
concert for its tonal balance and quick, feather-touch response.  
People looking for the best of both often play grand auditorium  
instruments. Because Aura is about re-creating an instrument’s  
individual character, it is important to match your guitar with a  
Sound Image based on a similar sized guitar and pickup type.  
The Aura is the logical extension of Fishman’s Blender  
technology. With a traditional Blender, we combine the utilitarian  
function of a pickup with the unquestionable realism that only a  
microphone can add. This combination produces a whole that is  
much greater than the sum of the parts.  
The Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender takes the concept a giant  
leap forward by eliminating onboard microphones from the  
equation and replacing them with digital Sound Images derived  
from a real studio environment.  
What Happens If I Mix and Match  
Sound Images?  
What you can expect from the Aura?  
Sound Imaging bridges the credibility gap between unamplified  
and amplified acoustic guitar sound. Unlike modeling, which  
takes a generic signal and applies a specific coloration, Sound  
Imaging matches the specific sound of an acoustic guitar with a  
specific Sound Image. Modeling is simulation, whereas Sound  
Imaging is re-creation. Don’t expect a catalog of different guitars  
at your fingertips; that is not what the Aura is intended for.  
Expect the Aura to amplify your instrument's most natural  
sound with incredible accuracy.  
We're not telling you that you can’t try transforming your old  
Silvertone into a D-45 sound image, but don't expect miracles.  
The resonance and tonal balance of one type of guitar could be  
at odds with a dissimilar sound image. The nature of your  
particular guitar and the interactive nature of the Sound Image  
may clash, so proceed with caution. In the best cases, an  
acoustically neutral sounding instrument can “put on” some of  
the resonant characteristics of a dissimilar Sound Image, but we  
can’t guarantee your results.  
6
Introduction  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Aura, the Internet and You  
More Sound Images are at available at  
Although we include a representative group of instruments with  
the Sound Images presently in your Aura, we understand that  
you may want more than 16 to choose from. Especially when  
you consider how many different kinds of acoustic guitars exist.  
The Aura ships with sixteen factory-loaded Sound Images of  
various guitar, microphone and pickup combinations. Of these  
sixteen factory-loaded Sound Images, twelve can be replaced  
with new Sound Images. Why would you want to start replacing  
these before you’ve even unpacked the Aura?  
Because each Sound Image in the Aura is specific to body size,  
microphone model and pickup type, you may not find a factory  
preset that is a perfect match for your instrument. If you have  
internet access, you can download new Sound Images from our  
Aura website and transfer them to Aura through its MIDI-In port.  
We offer an ever-expanding library of new digital Sound Images,  
advantage of email access to Fishman’s legendary customer  
support with tips, tricks and trouble-shooting for your Aura. If  
you are already on the internet, come visit the Aura section of  
our website. If not, we suggest you take the plunge and get  
online. Then you can start taking advantage of the many valuable  
online resources available for the Aura.  
To address this desire, we are gathering new Sound Images on  
a ongoing basis and offering them to you to download free from  
our Aura Gallery at the above website. Once you’ve downloaded  
your new Sound Images, you will be able to transfer them  
directly to the Aura via its MIDI-In port.  
Aura Custom Shop  
Imagine having a personal Aura library with Sound Images  
derived from your actual instruments! For the ultimate Aura  
experience, we will be setting up an Aura Custom Shop where  
we create new Sound Images for your personal instrument. Visit  
MIDI Requirements  
To transfer Sound Image data from your computer to the Aura,  
you’ll need a MIDI compatible cable.  
If your computer has a 15-pin MIDI/Joystick port, then you’ll  
need a compatible cable with a male 15-pin connector on one  
end and a MIDI out connector at the other end. This cable  
typically will have a second MIDI in and female 15-pin connector  
that goes unused. We Recommend the Voyetra MIDI Cable  
Pack.  
If your computer has a USB port, you’ll need a USB to MIDI  
adapter. This cable may have a second MIDI in connector that  
goes unused. We recommend the cable that is sold with the  
Voyetra Music Studio Kit.  
downloading instructions.  
7
Controls & Connections  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Rear Panel  
1 XLR Out  
Connect this balanced -4dBu level output to the input of your PA system, recording console, or to a microphone input on a portable  
amplifier. The Sound Image/pickup mix gets routed through this output.  
2 Gnd/Lft  
Move the Gnd/Lft switch to the “Lft” position to eliminate the ground loop hum that can occur when you use the XLR and (1/4”)  
Outputs together.  
3 Output  
Plug this unbalanced -10dBu output to your stage amplifier or an unbalanced mixer input. The Aura will sound best when you plug  
in to an acoustic instrument amplifier (like the Fishman Loudbox), a full range keyboard amplifier, or a PA System.  
4 Input  
Connect your instrument to the Aura Input with a standard shielded cable.  
Input Requirements  
Use a so-called “string-sensitive” pickup on your instrument. For acoustic guitar this means an undersaddle pickup or a magnetic soundhole  
pickup. The Aura will not perform well with soundboard type pickups, such as the Fishman SBT or any other pickup that locates on the  
soundboard, away from the bridge. If your pickup system has a microphone, turn it off.  
5 9VDC  
Connect only with a regulated 9 Volt, 200mA AC adapter. Plug in the 9VDC input to turn the Aura on; there  
is no on/off switch. A Fishman 910-R AC adapter is included with all units sold in the USA. If you  
purchased the Aura outside the USA, you must supply your own AC adapter. We recommend the Roland  
PSA Series or a comparable equivalent.  
6 MIDI In  
Through this input you can transfer Sound Image data to your Aura from an ever-expanding library at the Fishman Aura website.  
MIDI Requirements  
To transfer Sound Image data from your computer to the Aura, you’ll need a MIDI compatible cable.  
If your computer has a 15-pin MIDI/Joystick port, then you’ll need a compatible cable with a male 15-pin connector on one end and a MIDI out  
connector at the other end. This cable typically will have a second MIDI in and female 15-pin connector that goes unused. We Recommend the  
Voyetra MIDI Cable Pack.  
If your computer has a USB port, you’ll need a USB to MIDI adapter. This cable may have a second MIDI in connector that goes unused. We  
recommend the cable that is sold with the Voyetra Music Studio Kit.  
8
Controls & Connections - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Front Panel  
7 LED Display  
1 Output Level Knob  
The LED display references the 11 parameters in Edit mode,  
the 50 program locations in Play mode, and the pitch  
names and calibration frequencies in the Tuner mode.  
Sets the overall level at the XLR and ¼” outputs.  
2 Phase Switch  
Use this global phase switch to improve the amplified  
response at low volumes and to help reduce feedback at  
high volumes.  
8 Data Knob  
This multi-function knob affects the behavior of parameters  
in the Edit mode, scrolls through program locations in the  
Play mode and calibrates the reference pitch in Tuner mode.  
3 Input Level and LEDs  
Lets you match the output of your pickup to the input of the  
Aura for the cleanest possible signal.  
9 Tuner Off/Feedback Cancel  
Footswitch  
This dual-function footswitch disengages the Tuner and  
turns the Feedback Cancel feature on and off.  
4 Effect on/off Switch  
Push this switch to turn the digital Sound Image off and on.  
The green light turns on when the Sound Image is active.  
10 Tuner On/Program Change  
Footswitches  
5 Parameter Knob  
In Edit mode, point the knob to the desired parameter to  
access it.  
These dual-function switches are for engaging the  
chromatic Tuner and changing program locations.  
6 Edit/Play Switch  
Flip the switch to Play to access the 50 program locations  
for your sound image/pickup mixes.  
Move the switch to Edit to access the 11 adjustable  
parameters.  
9
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Chapter 1  
Control Panel Overview  
10  
Control Panel Overview  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
The Five Basic Control Groups  
The Aura control panel can be divided into five functional groups:  
1 Input/Output (see page 15)  
The Input Level control sets the optimum amount of gain for your pickup.  
The Output Level sets the level going to your amp or mixer.  
The slide switch marked Phase corrects phase anomalies that can degrade your sound or cause  
acoustic feedback  
2 Play Mode (see page 16)  
Move the switch from Edit to Play and use the Data knob or the Program Change switches to  
choose the location of the program that you will be working with. Initially this means that you’ll be  
checking out the first 16 program locations and the factory mixes associated with them. Once you  
get more fluent with the Aura, you will use the Play mode to assign your mixes to the program  
locations (01-50) of your choice. During a performance, you will normally use the Aura in Play  
Mode. Use the Effect on/off switch to compare the Aura mix to the unadorned pickup sound.  
3 Edit Mode (see page 18)  
Move the switch from Play to Edit to access the Aura's universe of adjustable parameters and tailor  
your mixes specifically to your preferences. Use the Effect On/Off switch to compare the Aura mix  
to the unadorned pickup sound. Use the Effect Off as your baseline for setting the level of your  
sound image/pickup mixes.  
4 Tuner (see page 23)  
You have the option to mute the outputs (or not), and to change the calibration frequency of the  
chromatic tuner.  
5 Feedback Cancel (see page 24)  
The Feedback Cancel feature can be programmed to eliminate feedback in any of the 50 program  
locations.  
11  
Control Panel Overview - Continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
LED Display  
The LED Display is your guide for navigating through the Play, Edit and  
Tuner modes.  
1 Play mode: The display shows your present program location.  
2 Edit mode: Shows the status of a selected parameter.  
3 Tuner mode: Displays the note name and calibration frequency of the tuner.  
In Play mode, the Aura’s LED displays the number of the  
program you are in.  
Compressor  
= off  
to  
88  
88 88  
88 88  
(flat picking, finger style)  
Play  
to  
= Programs 1 through 50  
88  
= recommended for Chords (strumming)  
= recommended for Lead  
to  
In the Edit mode the Aura’s display tells you the status of a  
selected Parameter.  
Level  
Tuner  
Select  
= no digital Sound Image, just pickup  
88  
= no boost or cut  
88  
88  
to  
= Permanent Factory Preset Sound Images  
= Semi-permanent presets; these can be  
88
to  
to  
= 1 to 3 dB boost  
= 1 to 9 dB attenuation  
to  
88  
88 88  
replaced with newer Sound Images imported from  
= A 440 Hz calibration frequency  
Aura - Bass, Mid, Treble  
(dot in upper left corner) = Mute disengaged  
to  
to  
= 1 to 12 dB boost  
88  
88 88  
= A  
A
A
= 1 to 9 dB cut  
= A#  
= B  
= flat  
88  
= C  
C
C
Blend  
= pickup only  
88  
88  
8
= C#  
= D  
= 87% pickup  
= 75% pickup  
= D#  
= E  
= 62.5% pickup  
= 50/50 pickup/Sound Image  
= 62.5% Sound Image  
= 75% Sound Image  
= 87.5% Sound Image  
= Aura Sound Image only  
= F  
= F#  
= G  
= G#  
88  
Pickup - Bass, Mid, Treble  
Factory Default Settings  
to  
to  
= 1 to 12 dB boost  
88  
88 88  
= all programs and parameters can be returned to factory  
= 1 to 9 dB cut  
default settings (excepting user downloaded Sound Images).  
= flat  
88  
TO RESET : Hold down both UP and Feedback Cancel switches for  
over 2 seconds while plugging in 9V power.  
Pickup Phase  
= non-inverting  
88  
88  
= inverting  
12  
Control Panel Overview - Continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Edit/Play Switch  
Use this switch to navigate between the 50 program locations in Play and the 11 selectable parameters  
in Edit. The mixes you create in Edit will automatically be placed in the last selected program location  
when you move the switch to Play.  
Move the switch to Play and the numbers in the LED display will refer to the 50 program locations  
available in the Aura’s memory. Use the Data Knob or the Up and Down footswitches to move through  
the different program Locations.  
When you move the switch to Edit, the numbers and letters in the display will refer to the Aura  
parameters. In Edit, you select a Parameter, then dial it in with the Data knob.  
TIP: Think of the program locations in Play as your canvasses and the parameters in Edit as paints. You choose a canvas (the program  
number in Play), move the switch to Edit, then choose from your palette of paints around the Parameter knob. Color and shade the  
subject by modifying the eleven parameters with the Data knob. Once you switch back to Play, you've put the paint to canvas.  
Data Knob  
The Data Knob is a general-purpose control that gets you to and from where you need to go within  
the Aura. Its action is always reflected in the Aura’s LED display.  
In the Play Mode, use the Data knob to move through your program locations (01-50).  
In the Edit Mode, use the Data knob to change the behavior of the selected parameter.  
In tuner mode, the Data Knob can change the pitch calibration frequency to anywhere  
between 427 and 453 Hz.  
Effect on/off Switch  
The Effect on/off Switch lets you bypass the blended sound image/pickup mixes in both the Play and  
Edit Modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Aura's outputs.  
Use the Effect on/off Switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see page 22) and to compare  
your raw pickup sound to the enhanced sound.  
13  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Chapter 2  
Inner Workings  
14  
Inner Workings  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Input /Output  
Input Level and LEDs  
Use the Input Level control and the multi-colored LEDs to set the gain structure for the Aura. When  
you plug into the Aura, play your instrument aggressively and adjust the Input Level control so that  
the green LED (signal present) lights brightly, the yellow LED (optimal level) flickers often and the red  
LED does not flicker on at all. If the red LED lights up at all, lower the Input Level accordingly.  
Signal Present  
Optimal  
Clipping  
Output Level  
For the cleanest signal, set this control as high as possible without clipping and causing audible  
distortion to your mixer or stage amplifier input.  
Phase Switches  
The phase switch is the most misunderstood feature, yet it is also the easiest to use.  
Phase (global, slide switch)  
This is a global phase switch that flips the polarity 180 degrees at the outputs. At low volumes when  
feedback is not an issue, flip this switch back and forth to find the position that yields the fullest  
response, especially in the bass. At higher volumes, use this switch to subdue feedback between the  
instrument and your speakers.  
Why a Global Phase Switch?  
Any time you plug in, there is a 50% chance that the sound of the speaker and the instrument will  
clash in some way. The clash can manifest itself as a loss of bass response at low volumes or (more  
often) acoustic feedback at high volumes. The phase switch simply lets you put the instrument and  
the speaker in agreement. The method for setting the switch is equally as simple: flip the switch and  
listen. The “correct” position for the switch is the one that works for you.  
Phase (pickup phase, located on the Parameter knob, switched by Data knob)  
The selection marked Phase on the Parameter knob lets you flip the polarity of the pickup signal 180  
degrees. With this control you can align the pickup signal with the Aura Digital Sound Image for a  
stronger and more cohesive sound. Use the Data control to flip between + polarity (0 in the display)  
and -polarity (1 in the display).  
15  
Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Why a Phase Switch on the Parameter Knob?  
A Sound Image is created from an actual microphone in front of a guitar. So the distance of the mic from the instrument and the polarity of the mic  
capsule will contribute to relative phase of the signal. Because the Aura blends a Sound Image signal with a pickup signal there is a 50% chance that the  
two will clash. The clash will manifest itsef as a loss of bass response, shrill treble, and a generally anemic tone. The phase switch located on the  
parameter knob simply lets you put the pickup and Sound Image into agreement. The method for setting the switch is simple: set the Parameter knob  
to “Phase”, toggle the Data knob and listen. The “correct” position for the switch is the one that produces the strongest sound.  
How to use the Phase switches:  
1 Start with the Edit/Play switch in the Play position and select a program. Make note of the number of the program and move the switch  
to the Edit position.  
2 Turn the Parameter knob to Blend and turn the Data knob clockwise until the letter A (Aura effect only, no pickup) appears in the display.  
3 Raise the Output Level.  
4 Play your instrument and flip the Phase slide switch back and forth. The desirable position for the switch is the one where the  
instrument and speaker work in agreement together and feedback is minimized. Note: If you change your position, you may also need  
to change the position of the Phase switch to maintain the positive relationship between the instrument and the speaker.  
5 Turn the Parameter knob back to Blend and adjust the Data knob counter-clockwise until the number 4 (50% Aura effect, 50% pickup)  
appears in the display.  
6 Turn the Parameter control to the Phase position (Pickup phase).  
7 Play your instrument, turn the Data knob clockwise (1 on the LED Display), then counter-clockwise (0 on the LED Display). Listen to  
the differences in sound quality and choose the position that sounds the most natural with the strongest bass.  
8 Move the Edit/Play switch to the Play position to commit the pickup phase switch setting to the program.  
Play Mode  
Edit/Play Switch  
Move the switch to Play and the numbers in the LED display will refer to the 50 program locations  
available in the Aura's memory.  
Programs  
There are 50 available program locations in Play. To move through them, use the Program Change  
footswitches or the Data knob. Any one of the program locations can be assigned to any of the  
parameters in Edit. For demonstration purposes, we factory load the first 16 program slots (01-16)  
in Play mode with the corresponding sequence of Aura/Pickup mixes from Edit- Parameter, Select  
(P1-P4, 01-12). You can alter or edit any of these mixes at any time. Program locations 17-50 come  
from the factory configured with the Select parameter set to “oF” which means that only the  
unprocessed pickup signal appears in the “Aura” side of the blender.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
You can choose how the Aura changes programs in Play Mode  
Instant Change Mode (factory default)  
In the Instant Change Mode the program changes as soon as you hit the up or down footswitch.  
TO ENABLE: Hold down the right footswitch for over 2 seconds, while plugging in  
9V power plug. The prompt  
will appear in the display.  
88  
Pre-select Change Mode  
In the pre-select change mode, you can continue playing in one program while you scroll through to  
the next program with the up and down footswitches. Hit the Up or Down footswitch and the LEDs  
above them will start flashing Once you find the program you are looking for, hit the Feedback Cancel  
footswitch and you will switch to the new program. Note that you have about three seconds after you  
take your foot off the program change switch to hit the Feedback Cancel and switch to the new  
program. Otherwise the program reverts to where it was when you started.  
TO ENABLE: Hold down the middle footswitch for over 2 seconds while plugging  
in 9V power plug. The prompt  
will appear in the display.  
88  
NOTE: Once enabled, “Pre-select Change” will be the normal operating state for  
the up/down footswitches.  
Resetting the Aura to Factory Specs  
You can easily return all the programs in the Play mode to the original factory settings with  
these 3 easy steps:  
1 Unplug the 9VDC plug at the back of the Aura.  
2 Hold down the two outside footswitches and insert the power plug into the unit.  
3 Continue to hold down the outside footswitches until the  
prompt appears in the  
display  
original Factory Sound Images.  
Effect on/off Switch  
The Effect on/off lets you bypass the blended sound image/pickup mixes in both the Play and Edit  
modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Aura's outputs. Use  
the Effect on/off switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see page 22) and to compare your  
raw pickup sound to the processed sound.  
The green indicates that the effect is on.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Edit Mode  
Edit/Play Switch  
Move this switch to access the 11 selectable parameters in Edit mode. The mixes you create in Edit  
will automatically be placed in the last selected program location when you move the switch to Play.  
When you move the switch to Edit, the numbers and letters in the display will refer to the Aura  
parameters. In Edit, you select a Parameter, then dial it in with the Data knob.  
Data Knob  
In the Edit mode use the Data knob to change the behavior of the selected parameter.  
Effect on/off Switch  
The Effect on/off lets you bypass the blended Sound Image/pickup mixes in both the Play and Edit  
modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Aura’s outputs. Use  
the Effect on/off switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see Level below) and to compare  
your raw pickup sound to the processed sound.  
Setup  
Any time you want to change the parameters in a program location (ex: change the Sound Image, the EQ,  
blend, compression, etc.), or configure an unused program:  
1 Start with the switch in Play.  
2 Use the Data control or the Up and Down switches to locate the program number you wish to configure.  
3 Move the switch to the Edit position. Now you can access the items listed around the Parameter knob.  
4 Use the Data control to adjust the behavior of each selected parameter.  
5 Once you are satisfied with the adjustments you’ve made, move the switch from Edit to Play and your changes  
will be saved to the last selected program location.  
NOTE: To help keep track of your mixes, use the blank Programs page found in the back of this manual.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Parameter Knob  
With the Parameter knob, you can access the components used to build Sound Image/pickup mixes.  
There are two main groups of discrete parameters for the Aura effect and the pickup, plus three other  
parameters common to both.  
To make the parameters available, move the switch to Edit, then move the pointer on the Parameter  
knob to the parameter that you would like to adjust. Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the  
selected parameter. Note that you can choose different parameters for all 50 of the program locations  
in Play Mode.  
Select  
Your Aura digital Sound Images are located within the Select parameter. A variety of popular guitars are represented in these Sound  
Images. To identify the various instruments, see the Factory Sound Images list in the back of this manual.  
Use the Data knob to move from one Sound Image to the next. The first four Sound Images (P-1, P2, P3, P4) are permanently installed  
in the unit. The remaining images (01-12) are semi-permanently installed, and can be replaced, at your option, with new Sound Images  
An “off” option (oF in the display), puts just your pickup and no Sound Image through the processor. To access it, Start at the P1 setting on the display  
and turn the Data control counter-clockwise. This option comes in handy if you would like to mark the unused programs, as with 17-50 in the factory  
Play programs.  
Guidelines for  
Selecting a Sound Image  
We recommend sizing a Sound Image to fit your instrument.  
To reproduce the sound of your guitar as accurately as possible with the Aura,  
we recommend that you match up your guitar’s body style and its pickup type  
with a similar sound image. For example, a dreadnought guitar with an  
undersaddle pickup will match well with a similar dreadnought sound image.  
When the natural resonances of the guitar and the response of the pickup are  
in agreement with those of the Sound Image, the amplified sound will be  
predictable, consistent and musical.  
Can’t find the Sound Image(s) to fit your instrument?  
Not to worry. We are constantly adding new Sound Images to our catalog that you can download to your computer and then transfer to Aura. Log on to  
Still can’t find the perfect Sound Image after visiting our website?  
Send your instrument to the Aura Custom Shop and we will create a custom Sound Image file tailored precisely for your instrument.  
Mix and Match Body Styles  
While the thought of transforming a diminutive plywood guitar into a vintage high end instrument is intriguing, this is really not the Aura’s intended use.  
Although we encourage you to experiment, we cannot guarantee that your instrument will be compatible with all the available Sound Images. You might  
get good results mixing and matching your instrument with a Sound Image of a different body style.  
If your instrument has lots of natural personality, with strong resonances and complex harmonics, it will clash with Sound Images that are derived from  
differing body styles. For instance, a handmade lightly braced concert size guitar will not match well with a dreadnought Sound Image, because the  
distinct personality of the guitar will not agree with the specific resonances and radiation patterns of the dreadnought Sound Image  
The cases in which we’ve had success mixing and matching various Sound Image body styles have been when the source instrument has a fairly neutral,  
non-descript sound to start. Laminated guitars, thin bodied acoustic/electrics and heavily braced instruments seem to be good candidates. In these cases,  
the Aura Sound Image can “add” its personality to a more neutral and less resonant instrument.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Aura Equalization  
The bracketed Bass, Mid and Treble parameters next to the “Aura” designation are for equalizing the Sound Image in the mix. We  
recommend that you use these controls sparingly, especially when boosting. Most often a very slight cut or boost is all that is needed get  
a Sound Image dialed in. Set Blend to A when you equalize the Sound Image.  
Bass  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Bass control. The default Bass setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut bass, turn the Data knob  
left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost bass, turn the Data knob right and the  
display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB.  
Dial in the bass to add depth or subtract boominess from the Sound Image. The bass control for the Aura is “normalized”, which means that when  
you boost Bass, the volume stays the same. Only boost Bass if you have weak bass response from the instrument, common with thin body  
acoustic/electric guitars. Cut Bass if you the sound produced is very boomy, as is often the case with large rosewood body guitars.  
Mid  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Mid control. The default Mid setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut midrange, turn the Data knob  
left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost midrange, turn the Data knob right and  
the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB.  
The Mid control is centered at 1kHz. And affects how well the instrument blends in or stands out in the mix. Cut midrange to make the sound more  
transparent, especially at high volume levels.  
Treble  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Treble control. The default Treble setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut treble, turn the Data knob  
left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost treble, turn the Data knob right and the  
display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB.  
Boosting here will add “air” to the sound. Cutting the treble will mellow and subdue your amplified tone.  
Blend  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Blend control.  
The default Sound Image / pickup Blend setting is 6, or 75% Sound Image and is set up mainly for demonstration purposes. You will find  
that a blend with equal or less Sound Image and more pickup is effective for performance. Turn the Data knob left for more of the Aura  
Sound Image and right for more of the pickup.  
A = all Sound Image P = all pickup 4 = 50/50  
Suggested settings for Blend  
For most performing situations, you will get the best balance of pickup and digital Sound Image with the Blend set to 3 or 4 in the display (62-  
50% Pickup). This gives your live sound a good solid foundation as the pickup supplies a strong focused tone and the Sound Image gives  
you just enough ambience for a credible acoustic performance without feedback. Note that too much Sound Image in the mix can blur your  
sound at high volumes and is more prone to feedback.  
For recording you may wish to set the Blend so that only the Sound Image appears in the mix (A). Many engineers like to mix in just a little  
pickup in a recording to bring the instrument more into focus. In this case, set the blend to 7 or 8.  
Pickup Equalization  
The bracketed Bass, Mid and Treble parameters next to the “Pickup” designation are for equalizing the pickup signal. You can use these  
controls liberally to help dial in your pickup sound. Often a bit of bass and treble boost and a slight midrange cut is in order to get the  
pickup sound dialed in. Set Blend to P when you equalize the pickup.  
Bass  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Bass control. The default Bass setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut bass, turn the Data knob  
left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost bass, turn the Data knob right and the  
display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB.  
Dial in the bass to add depth or subtract boominess from the Sound Image. Only boost Bass if you have weak bass response from the instrument,  
i.e. with a thin body acoustic/electric guitar. Cut bass if you the sound produced is very boomy, as is often the case with larger instruments.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Mid  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Mid control. The default Mid setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut midrange, turn the Data knob  
left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost midrange, turn the Data knob right and  
the display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB.  
The Mid control is centered at 1kHz. And affects how well the instrument blends in or stands out in the mix. Cut midrange to make the sound more  
transparent, especially at high volume levels.  
Treble  
Use the Data knob to change the behavior of the Treble control. The default Treble setting is flat (read 0 in display). To cut treble, turn the Data knob  
left and the display will show a negative number (down to -9) that indicates the amount cut in dB. To boost treble, turn the Data knob right and the  
display will show a number (up to 12) that indicates the amount of boost in dB.  
Boosting here will add "air" to the sound. Cutting the treble will mellow and subdue your amplified tone.  
Phase Switches  
The phase switch is the most misunderstood feature, yet it is also the easiest to use.  
Phase (Pickup Phase, located on the Parameter Knob, switched by the Data knob)  
The detent marked Phase on the Parameter knob lets you flip the polarity of the pickup signal 180 .  
With this control you can align the pickup signal with the selected Sound Image for a stronger and  
more cohesive sound. Use the Data control to flip between + polarity (0 in the display) and -polarity  
(1 in the display).  
Why a Phase Switch on the Parameter Knob?  
A Sound Image is created from an actual microphone in front of a guitar. So the distance of the mic  
from the instrument and the polarity of the mic capsule will contribute to relative phase of the signal.  
Because the Aura blends a Sound Image signal with a pickup signal there is a 50% chance that the  
two will clash. The clash will manifest itself as a loss of bass response, shrill treble, and a generally  
anemic tone. The phase switch located on the parameter knob simply lets you put the pickup and  
Sound Image into agreement. The method for setting the switch is simple: Set the Parameter knob to  
"Phase", toggle the Data knob and listen. The "correct" position for the switch is the one that produces  
the strongest sound.  
Phase (global, slide switch)  
The selection marked Phase on the Parameter knob lets you flip the polarity of the pickup signal 180  
degrees. With this control you can align the pickup signal with the Aura Digital Sound Image for a  
stronger and more cohesive sound. Use the Data control to flip between + polarity (0 in the display)  
and - polarity (1 in the display).  
Why a Global Phase Switch?  
Any time you plug in, there is a 50% chance that the sound of the speaker and the instrument will  
clash in some way. The clash can manifest itself as a loss of bass response at low volumes or (more  
often) acoustic feedback at high volumes. The phase switch simply lets you put the instrument and  
the speaker in agreement. The method for setting the switch is equally as simple: flip the switch and  
listen. The “correct” position for the switch is the one that works for you.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
How to use the Phase switches:  
1 Start with the Edit/Play switch in the Play position and select a program. Make note of the number of the program and move the switch  
to the Edit position.  
2 Turn the Parameter knob to Blend and turn the Data knob clockwise until the letter A (Aura effect only, no pickup) appears in the display.  
3 Raise the Output Level.  
4 Play your instrument and flip the Phase slide switch back and forth. The desirable position for the switch is the one where the  
instrument and speaker work in agreement together and feedback is minimized. Note: If you change your position, you may also need  
to change the position of the Phase switch to maintain the positive relationship between the instrument and the speaker.  
5 Turn the Parameter knob back to Blend and adjust the Data knob counter-clockwise until the number 4 (50% Aura effect, 50% pickup)  
appears in the display.  
6 Turn the Parameter control to the Phase position (Pickup phase).  
7 Play your instrument turn the Data knob clockwise (1 on the LED Display), then counter-clockwise (0 on the LED Display). Listen to  
the differences in sound quality and choose the position that sounds the most natural with the strongest bass.  
8 Move the Edit/Play switch to the Play position to commit the phase switch setting to the program.  
Tips on Pickup Phase (located on the Parameter knob, switched with Data knob)  
Some Sound Images will dominate the pickup, even with the blend set to 50/50. This can make it hard to hear the "correct" polarity between  
the pickup and the sound image. We have found it useful to set the blend parameter to favor the pickup while you calibrate the pickup  
phase. In these cases try setting the blend to 2 or 3. If after adjusting the blend you still have a problem hearing a difference when you  
toggle the Data knob, try listening with a pair of sealed headphones. The headphones will block out most of the acoustic sound of your  
instrument and let only the pickup and Sound Image signals get to your ears.  
Compressor  
Set the Parameter control to Compressor and turn the Data wheel clockwise to the type and amount of compression desired. A little  
compression goes a long way for acoustic instruments; usually a setting of 2 or 3 will firm up your sound without adding extra coloration.  
The Aura’s Compressor circuit is designed specifically with acoustic instruments in mind. You can select between two types of  
compression, designated C for Chords and L for Lead), for different styles of playing. At the higher settings the additional gain and sustain  
provided by the compressor may cause some instruments to enter into acoustic feedback.  
Use the Level parameter to “normalize” the overall volume at high compression settings. Once you find a compression setting you like, turn the Parameter  
control to the Level setting. Use the Effect On/Off button to compare the level of your compressed signal and the unprocessed pickup signal. Use the  
Data control to match the levels of the processed and unprocessed signals.  
To reduce hiss, an automatic noise gate is activated whenever the compressor kicks in.  
C Compression - Chords and Rhythm  
The C compression is optimized for chordal accompaniment and has a smooth sustained effect that is right for strumming. The amount of  
compression is selectable between 1 and 9 dB and corresponds with the numbers in the display.  
L Compression - Lead, Flatpicking and Finger style  
The L compressor highlights a quick percussive attack and is ideal for flatpicking or finger style. To access L compression, scroll past the  
highest setting for C compression. The amount of compression is selectable between 1 and 9 dB and corresponds with the numbers in the  
display.  
Level  
This control is for matching or “normalizing” the baseline levels of the various programs you create with the Aura. You will find that  
with differences in equalization and compression, one program can unintentionally become louder or softer than another.  
When you finish making parameter adjustments in a program, turn the Parameter control to Level and toggle the Effect on/off switch.  
If there is a difference in level between the two, adjust the level with Data control until the two levels match. You can also use the Level  
parameter to preset a hotter level in a program that you intend to use for soloing.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Effect on/off Switch  
The Effect on/off lets you bypass the blended sound image/pickup mixes in both the Play and Edit  
modes, so that only the basic pickup signal from your instrument appears at the Aura’s outputs. Use  
the Effect on/off switch to help set baseline levels for your mixes (see Level above) and to compare  
your raw pickup sound to the processed sound.  
Tuner  
This digital chromatic tuner has several programmable features to fit your  
performance needs. When the tuner is engaged, it is factory set to mute the  
Aura’s outputs. The mute can also be disabled (see below).  
Tuner Setup  
1 Move Edit/Play switch to Play  
2 Press the two bracketed Tuner On (UP and Down) footswitches simultaneously to  
activate the tuner.  
3 Play an open string and the tuner will show the closest note name in the display.  
4 Watch the LEDs over each foot switch to dial in the note.  
5 If the left LED lights, the note is flat.  
6 If the right LED lights, the note is sharp.  
7 When the center LED lights, the note is in tune.  
8 To shut off the tuner, press either the Tuner Off (Feedback Cancel) footswitch or both  
the bracketed Tuner ON (UP and Down) footswitches simultaneously.  
Mute Defeat  
If you wish to override the mute function of the tuner, tap the Down footswitch when the tuner is engaged. A dot will light up in the upper left corner of  
the display and the pickup signal will appear at the Aura’s outputs. This will now be the normal operating state of the tuner, unless you press the Down  
footswitch again and re-engage the mute before exiting the tuner.  
If you wish to re-calibrate the tuner above or below the factory A = 440, turn the Data control while the tuner is engaged. You can lower the reference A  
to 427 Hz or raise it as high as 453 Hz. Your new calibration pitch will remain the Aura’s memory unless until you decide to change it again.  
TROUBLESHOOTING TIP: If the Tuner is not registering when you play, it may not be seeing enough signal from your  
instrument. Raise the Input level until the middle yellow LED flashes frequently when you play aggressively and the tuner  
will start tracking properly.  
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Inner Workings - continued  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Feedback Cancel  
We’ve made it very easy to eliminate the feedback that typically occurs when you plug in an acoustic instrument.  
Here are three ways to use the Feedback Cancel filter.  
Factory Default Feedback Cancel  
The Feedback Cancel is set up at the factory with a 100 Hz notch filter; the frequency where many  
acoustic guitars howl. Simply tap the Feedback Cancel footswitch to engage the filter. If the feedback  
does not go away go to “On the Fly Feedback Cancel” (below).  
On the Fly Feedback Cancel (Play Mode)  
If you are in a program the Play mode and your instrument starts to feedback during a performance, the  
Feedback Cancel feature can scan for feedback and then eliminate it as long as you stay in that program.  
If you experience feedback, just hold down the Feedback Cancel footswitch for several seconds, until the  
LED starts blinking. Release the footswitch and the circuit will seek out the feedback and eliminate it.  
Note that once you leave the program, the Feedback Filter will shut off and be cleared from that program.  
If you want to save and have instant recall of a Feedback Cancel setting, see Programmable Feedback  
Cancel below.  
Programmable Feedback Cancel (Edit Mode)  
If you want to “Search and Destroy” feedback and then save the setting into a program location,  
follow the directions below.  
1 Select a program in the Play mode and make note of the number. Move the switch to the Edit  
position.  
2 Step on and hold down the Feedback Cancel footswitch for several seconds until the LED above the  
switch starts flashing. Release the footswitch and dampen the strings with one hand, then raise the  
Output Level or your amplifier volume until feedback starts.  
3 When the LED stops flashing but remains on, the Feedback Cancel circuit has automatically found  
and eliminated the feedback.  
4 Move the Edit/Play switch to the Play position to save the Feedback Cancel into the program.  
5 Whenever you return to this program, the saved Feedback Cancel filter will engage.  
Programmed Feedback Cancel, Normally Off  
When you want to have the Feedback circuit dialed in a specific program location, but you want it  
“normally off” so you can recall the setting only when you need it .  
Follow the above procedure, and then go back to the Edit mode. Tap the footswitch so the Feedback  
Cancel LED turns off. Switch back to Play. The saved Feedback Cancel notch in that program location  
will now be normally off and you can turn it on by tapping the Feedback Cancel footswitch.  
The Feedback Cancel can “remember” different notch filter settings for each of the 50 programs in the  
play mode.  
Note that Feedback Cancel is not available when the Tuner is engaged.  
24  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Chapter 3  
Setting Up for Performance  
25  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Setting Up for Performance  
With 11 adjustable parameters, 12 factory Sound Images (and more to download from the Fishman Aura website),  
plus 50 program locations to hold your mixes, the Aura gives you an incredible amount of power and flexibility. You  
have the power to create an almost infinite number of Sound Image/pickup mixes to suit your taste. The 50 program  
locations in Play mode let you group your mixes into any order you prefer for quick recall during a performance. All  
these possibilities may seem a little daunting at first, but once you get familiar with the control layout and navigation  
you’ll find that building your mixes becomes second nature.  
If you plan to use the Aura on a gig, we strongly suggest that you first spend some time getting comfortable with it  
at home. Use this time to find the Sound Images that you’d like to use on the gig and to create the mixes you will  
use onstage. Once you set up your mixes, document their program locations on the blank Programs page provided  
in the back of this manual. We suggest you photocopy this page and keep it with your Aura for reference. When you  
get to the gig, you’ll have all your basic settings down, so you can focus your attention on the music and not on your  
gear.  
Understanding Aura Navigation  
To get the most out of your Aura experience, you will need to understand the the navigation terminology for this device. If not, here is a  
brief summary:  
Play Mode  
Move the Play/Edit switch to Play to make the Aura’s fifty program locations (and their related mixes) are accessible.  
Edit Mode  
Move the Play/Edit switch to Edit to make the Aura’s eleven adjustable parameters accessible for building Sound Image/pickup mixes.  
Sound Image  
The Aura’s 16 instrument-specific acoustic guitar templates (driven by your pickup) take the place of a microphone signal in this blender-  
style device. Instrument-specific means you’ll usually get the best results when you choose a Sound Image that matches the style of guitar  
you play (dreadnought, grand auditorium, classical, etc). Sound Images reside in Edit mode in the Select parameter. Sound Images cannot  
accidentally be “erased”, so don’t worry about losing them. Note that any or all Sound Images 01-12 can be replaced with new ones,  
downloaded from our website and transferred to your Aura via MIDI access. Any Sound Image you replace can easily be retrieved through  
the same process.  
Mix (or Sound Image/Pickup Mix)  
We call the blended combination of a Sound Image and a pickup signal a mix. You create a mix by choosing a Sound Image, blending it  
with the pickup and seasoning to taste with the various parameters in Edit Mode.  
Program Locations  
The 50 slots in Play mode in which you place your mixes are called program locations. You select a program location with either the  
Up/Down footswitches or the Data Knob.  
Tip: Think of the program locations in Play as your canvasses and the parameters in Edit as paints. You choose a canvas (a program  
number in Play), move the switch to Edit, then choose from your palette of paints around the Parameter knob. Color and shade the  
subject by modifying the eleven parameters with the Data knob. Once you switch back to Play, you've put the paint to canvas.  
26  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Setting Up A Mix  
Here is a general step by step method for putting together a mix. This is a serial procedure in which each step leads to and affects the one  
that follows. For the most reliable results, try to consistently follow the order below whenever you set up your mixes. If you need more  
detail than is covered here, refer to the comprehensive descriptions in the Aura Inner Workings Chapter of this manual.  
Use the Right Pickup  
Make sure your instrument’s pickup is compatible with the Aura. For acoustic guitar, use only an undersaddle pickup or a magnetic  
soundhole pickup. If your instrument has an onboard microphone, shut it off. The first 12 factory Sound Images (P1-P4 and 01-08) are  
calibrated for undersaddle pickups. The last four (09-12) work best with magnetic soundhole pickups.  
Will the Aura Work with a wireless system? Yes, Aura will work with a wireless, but expect to hear some differences in your sound  
because a wireless transmitter will add anomalies to your signal. Plug into a wireless and your Aura sound will be somewhat  
compressed with a slight, high frequency “smear” effect.  
Set Levels  
1 Plug in and adjust the Input Level on the Aura so that the green LED lights brightly, the yellow LED flickers often and the red LED does  
not flicker at all.  
2 Flip the Edit/Play switch to Play and raise the Output level to a comfortable volume.  
Select a Program Location and a Sound Image  
1 With the Edit/Play switch set to Play, use the Up/Down footswitches or the Data knob to choose the program location where you’d like  
to place a mix. Make note of the program number.  
2 Move the Edit/Play switch to Edit and turn the Parameter knob to Blend. Turn the Data knob clockwise until the letter A appears in the  
display. Lower the Output Level if necessary.  
3 Move the Parameter knob to Select to access Sound Images. Use the Data knob to navigate through the available Sound Images. Refer  
to the list of Factory Sound Images to identify one that is compatible with your type of instrument. You may also explore the sixteen  
details.  
Set Phase Switches  
1 Raise the Output level until the instrument just begins to feedback.  
2 Play the instrument and flip the Phase switch (the one between the Output and Input Level knobs) back and forth. Leave the switch in  
the position that sounds best, with the least feedback.  
3 With the Parameter knob still at Blend, move the Data knob counterclockwise until the number 4 appears in the display.  
4 Raise the Output level again until the instrument just begins to feedback.  
5 Turn the Parameter knob to the Phase position, play your instrument and turn the Data knob clockwise (1 in the display), then counter-  
clockwise (0 in the display). Listen to the differences in sound quality and choose the position that sounds the most natural with the  
strongest bass and least feedback.  
Set Sound Image/Pickup Blend  
Turn the Parameter knob to Blend and use the Data knob to adjust the balance between the Sound Image and the pickup. Set the Blend to  
3 or 4 for live sound and to 7 or A for recording.  
If the Sound Image is so great, why do you need to mix in the pickup too?  
The pickup will reinforce the Sound Image signal when you perform with the Aura. With the pickup mixed in, your live sound will be clean,  
articulate and more dynamic. For recording, we suggest you blend in more of the Sound Image with little or no pickup.  
27  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Adjust the EQ  
Move the Parameter knob to Bass, Mid or Treble for either the Aura or Pickup and adjust to taste with the Data knob. For best results, apply  
EQ to the “Aura” side (Sound Image) sparingly. You can apply EQ more liberally for the pickup side. Typically you boost Bass and Treble a  
bit and cut Mid for the pickup. After you apply EQ, go back to Blend and double-check the balance between the pickup and the Aura (Sound  
Image).  
Set the Compressor (optional)  
If you want a bit more punch and sustain from your sound, move the Parameter knob to Compressor and turn the Data knob clockwise.  
For strumming, set the compressor to about C1 or C2. For single note leads and fingerstyle, turn the Data knob clockwise past C9 to L1 or  
L2.  
Check the Level  
Turn the Parameter knob to Level and check the overall volume of your mix by pushing the Effect On/Off switch several times. Use the Data  
knob to match the level of the mix to the dry, unadorned pickup sound.  
Set Feedback Cancel  
Once you have all your parameters adjusted, raise the Output level and see if the instrument will feedback. If it does, lower the Output Level,  
then hold down the Feedback Cancel footswitch for over two seconds until the LED over the switch flashes. Raise the output level until the  
feedback returns and it will be recognized by the Feedback Cancel circuit and eliminated.  
Finish Up  
Now that you have set up all the parameters, move the Edit/Play switch back to Play and you are done. Remember that the location of any  
mix you create will always get assigned to the last selected program location. Go make some music!  
Suggestions for Mixes  
Rhythm Guitar  
Cut mids for both the Aura (Sound Image) and the pickup EQ. Try adding a little bit of “C” compression (C1 or C2) to fill out the chords.  
Flatpicking  
Blend in a bit more Sound Image than pickup (about 5 or 6 in the display) and cut the treble for the Aura (Sound Image).  
Fingerstyle  
Set Blend to 3 or 4 and boost bass slightly for the Aura (Sound Image). Boost bass and treble and cut the mids for the pickup. Use a little  
bit of “L” Compression (L1 or L2) for more “snap”.  
Nylon String  
Classical guitars tend to have a very open bass response, so cut bass for the Aura (Sound Image).  
Solo (boost) setting  
If you need more level for a solo section in a piece, go to the level parameter and boost as required.  
Mute setting  
You can effectively mute any program location you choose.  
1
2
3
4
5
Go to Play mode and select the program location you wish to mute.  
Go to Edit mode and set the Select parameter to “oF”.  
Set the Blend parameter to 4.  
Go to the Phase parameter and toggle the Data knob back and forth. Leave the Data knob in the position that mutes the sound.  
Return to Play mode.  
Recording  
For recording, set the Blend parameter to 7 or A.  
28  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Build Your Own Programs for Performance  
We give you 50 program locations to store your mixes. Here are some suggestions for setting up sequences of programs for performance.  
Remember to document your mixes and their program locations on the blank Programs page in the back of this manual.  
Assigning Sound Images to program locations (Play mode)  
You can use the program spaces presently occupied by the Factory preset mixes in slots 01 to 16 to place your own mixes. Don’t be afraid  
to replace the factory mixes with your new ones. You can reprogram the Aura back to your factory settings any time you wish (see Quick  
Start, Escape Hatch). You can’t lose sound or mixes, you can only change parameters and assign mixes to different program locations.  
Program Suggestions  
Since the Aura always goes back to Program location 01 when you plug it in, we suggest you place your mixes at or around this slot. For  
example, you might have a mix that you set up for rhythm playing in program 01 and perhaps a flatpicking mix in 02. For a little more  
volume, you might place a Solo mix into program 03. And to round things out, perhaps a fingerpicking mix in 04.  
Multiple instruments  
If you play several instruments onstage, try sequencing your mixes so that each instrument has its own space, by separating each group  
with a “mute” program.  
For Example:  
01 Dreadnought (rhythm)  
02 Dreadnought (flatpick)  
03 Dreadnought (boost)  
04 Mute  
05 Fingerstyle  
06 Fingerstyle (boost)  
07 Mute  
08 Classical (chords)  
09 Classical (single note solo)  
Use your Aura as a digital scrolling volume pedal  
You can set up a bank of program slots to use as a scrolling volume control that you access by pressing the Up/Down footswitches. Go to  
the Level parameter and incrementally raise each Program in the sequence by one step. If you try this, we also recommend that you use  
the Pre-select Change Mode as described on page 17 of this manual.  
For Example:  
20 Level -8  
21 Level -7  
22 Level -6  
23 Level -5  
23 Level -4  
24 Level -3  
25 Level -2  
26 Level -1  
27 Level 0  
28 Level 1  
29 Level 2  
30 Level 3  
29  
Appendix A  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Specifications  
Specifications  
Power:  
150 mA @ 9Vdc  
Anti-Feedback Filter:  
Power Connection:  
Center pin negative  
2.1mm dia., 5.5mm outer dia.  
Cut:  
-14 dB  
Bandwidth:  
Default Frequency:  
0.25 octave (-3dB from baseline gain)  
100Hz (Without running “Measure”  
calibration)  
Input Impedance:  
Output Impedance:  
5 Meg  
1k  
Compressor  
C1-C9:  
Nominal Operating Level:  
Unbalanced Output Level:  
Balanced Output Level:  
-17dBu  
Chord/strumming style  
Sustained with smooth attack  
Lead style  
-10dBu +/- 2dB (-10dBu, 1kHz input)  
-4dBu +/- 2dB (-10dBu, 1kHz input)  
L1-L9:  
Percussive attack characteristic  
Distortion:  
Less than 0.1% w/ 30kHz LPF filter  
(-10dBu, 1kHz input)  
Compression threshold:  
-22dBu  
Noise Level:  
Frequency response:  
-74dBu, 20Hz - 20kHz A-weighted  
20Hz: 0 +/- 2dB,  
Compression attenuation at -10dBu:  
1dB - 9dB corresponding to the  
20kHz:-1.5 +/- 2dB  
number in the selected compression  
setting.  
Level Indicator Thresholds:  
Red (High): -11 dBu +/- 2dB  
Yellow (Mid): -17 dBu +/- 2dB  
Green (Low): -24 dBu +/-2dB  
Example:  
C7 or L7 would produce a maximum  
compression of 7dB.  
Noise Gate:  
Gate Threshold:  
On when compression is selected.  
-46dBu  
Digital Sound Image Bass:  
Boost:  
Normalizes level when boosting bass -  
baseline gain drops 4 dB at maximum  
bass boost  
+11.5dB @ 20Hz (relative to 2kHz)  
+10dB @ 60Hz (relative to 2kHz)  
+8dB @ 100Hz (relative to 2kHz)  
+3dB @ 300Hz (relative to 2kHz)  
-9dB @ 20Hz  
Normalized Compressor Drive Gain:  
To minimize shift in operating level,  
mid level gain increases proportional  
to each of the compression settings  
Cut:  
-8.4 dB @ 60Hz  
-7dB @ 100Hz  
-3dB @ 300Hz  
Pickup Bass:  
Boost:  
+11.5db @ 20Hz  
+10dB @ 60Hz  
+8dB @ 100Hz  
+3dB @ 300Hz  
-9dB @ 20Hz  
Cut:  
-8.4 dB @ 60Hz  
-7dB @ 100Hz  
-3dB @ 300Hz  
Digital Sound Image & Pickup Treble Controls:  
Boost:  
+12dB @ 20kHz  
+9 dB @ 10kHz  
+3dB @ 3kHz  
-9dB @ 20kHz  
-8dB @ 10kHz  
-3dB @ 3kHz  
Cut:  
Digital Sound Image & Pickup Mid Controls:  
Boost:  
Cut:  
+11.5dB  
-9dB  
Center Frequency:  
Bandwidth:  
1kHz  
0.55 octave  
(full boost, -3dB from peak)  
All Specifications Subject to Change Without Notification  
30  
Appendix B  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Glossary  
AST Technology  
An acronym for Acoustic Spectrum Transform, the trademark for Akai Professional’s digital technology that makes digital Sound Imaging  
possible.  
Aura  
A digital Sound Image added to a pickup signal.  
Data Knob  
Turn this knob to modify the Data currently shown in the LED display.  
Edit Mode  
The state in which the Aura’s eleven Parameters are accessible for building sound image/pickup mixes. Also the state in which the  
Feedback Cancel feature can be preset for later recall.  
Initialization  
Resets your Aura to its factory default settings.  
MIDI  
An acronym for Musical Instrument Digital Interface; used to transfer downloaded Sound Image data between your home computer and  
the Aura.  
Mix or Sound Image / Pickup Mix  
The blended combination of a Sound Image and a pickup signal, created by manipulating parameters in Edit Mode, and stored in a  
program location in Play Mode.  
Notch Filter  
The proper name for the Feedback Cancel function. When the Feedback Cancel circuit identifies the resonant frequency of feedback, it  
sharply attenuates that frequency in a way that graphically resembles a notch, hence the name.  
Parameter  
The character attributes of the various Aura functions that can be adjusted.  
Play Mode  
The state in which the Aura’s 50 program locations (and their related mixes) are accessible.  
Also the state in which the onboard tuner is accessible.  
Program or Program Location  
The 50 numbered slots in Play Mode to which sound image/pickup mixes are assigned.  
Select (Parameter knob)  
Select allows you to choose any of the 16 Sound Images available in the Aura.  
Sound Image (or Digital Sound Image)  
A sophisticated algorithm that transforms the response of a pickup into that of a microphone in front of a guitar (or other string  
instrument). A Sound Image is constructed from actual recordings of actual instruments. To transform your instrument’s pickup signal,  
this algorithm seamlessly adjusts the pickup signal’s phase and frequency response to match the selected Sound Image template. Also,  
signature elements like body size, radiant sound from the guitar, body resonance, mic distance and microphone personality are all added  
to the equation - providing amplified acoustic guitar sound with indisputable realism.  
31  
Appendix C  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Troubleshooting  
Problem  
Possible Cause  
Solution  
Power does not turn on  
Do you have the correct AC adapter?  
Use only Fishman 910R or Roland PSA adapters  
No sound or not loud enough  
Have the connections to other devices been made correctly?  
Are the Input and Output levels too low?  
Is the tuner engaged?  
Check your connections  
Raise Input and/or Output levels  
Disengage the tuner or step on the  
Down footswitch to un-mute the tuner  
Thin sound or weak bass  
Are the pickup and Sound Image signals out of phase?  
Is the Sound Image turned on?  
Switch to Edit mode and select the Phase parameter.  
Turn the Data knob clockwise then counterclockwise and  
choose the pickup phase that complements the Sound  
Image  
Push Effect On/Off button so the LED above it lights up.  
Switch to Edit mode and choose the Select parameter  
Select a Sound Image with the Data knob (the prompt  
“oF” in the display means that no Sound Image is  
currently in that program location)  
You hear distortion  
You hear hiss  
Is the Input level too high?  
Is the Input level too low?  
Turn down the Input level until the red LED  
stops flickering  
Raise the Input level until the Green LED flashes  
regularly and the red LED does not flash at all  
The Tuner will not engage  
Is the Aura in Edit mode?  
Is the input level too low?  
Move the Edit/Play switch to Play  
Raise the input level  
You hear an uneven or  
muddled response from the Aura  
Did you choose a Sound Image  
that matches your instrument's body style?  
Select a Sound Image that better matches  
your instrument  
Does your pickup match the sampled pickup  
in the Sound Image?  
Check the Stock Sound Image chart to find a  
Sound Image compatible with your pickup (either  
undersaddle or magnetic soundhole pickup)  
Are you using a soundboard pickup or a microphone?  
Use only an undersaddle pickup or a magnetic  
soundhole pickup  
Hum  
Do you hear hum through the speakers when you use  
both the 1/4” and XLR outputs?  
Move the Gnd/Lft switch to the “Lft” position  
You hear only pickup and  
no Sound Image  
Make sure the Effect On/Off switch is engaged  
Confirm that the Program you are in has a Sound Image  
placed in it. (Check the Select Parameter in Edit mode)  
32  
Appendix D  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Factory Default Settings  
All programs and parameters can be returned to  
factory default settings (except user-imported Sound  
Images).  
To reset: Hold down both UP and Feedback Cancel  
switches for over 2 seconds while plugging in 9V  
power.  
A
prompt will appear in the LED Display when  
the Aura has reset.  
Factory Defaults:  
Play mode, default to program 01  
Programs 01 through 04 correspond to Sound Images P1 to P4 (Select parameter)  
Programs 05 through 16 correspond to Sound Images 01 to 12 (Select parameter)  
Note: Any Sound Images imported by the user into the Aura will remain there when the unit is reset to  
Programs 17 through 50:  
oF no Sound Image selected for these programs,  
pickup appears in the Aura channel.  
Aura EQ Bass, Mid & Treble:  
0 (flat)  
Blend:  
6 (75% Sound Image)  
0 (flat)  
Pickup EQ - Bass, Mid & Treble:  
Phase (Pickup):  
Compressor:  
Level:  
0 (positive polarity)  
oF (off)  
0 (no boost or cut)  
calibrated to 40 (A= 440 Hz ), mute engaged  
Tuner:  
33  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Factory Sound Image/Pickup Mixes*  
Play Mode  
Edit Mode (Select parameter)  
Reference  
Microphone  
Pgrm # Instrument  
Wood  
Pickup  
Sound Image #  
Web Name  
01  
02  
03  
04  
05  
06  
07  
08  
09  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
Dreadnought 1  
rosewood  
rosewood cutaway  
mahogany  
rosewood  
maple  
undersaddle  
dynamic  
P1  
P2  
P3  
P4  
01  
02  
03  
04  
05  
06  
07  
08  
09  
10  
11  
12  
MHD28SM58NTI  
MD16U47PP  
Dreadnought 2  
undersaddle  
large diaphragm condenser  
small diaphragm condenser  
large diaphragm condenser  
large diaphragm condenser  
small diaphragm condenser  
small diaphragm condenser  
small diaphragm condenser  
small diaphragm condenser  
large diaphragm condenser  
dynamic  
Grand Concert 1  
Classical 1  
undersaddle  
M00184011NTI  
R2CWECX111PPRO  
GJ200U47NTI  
undersaddle  
Jumbo 1  
undersaddle  
Dreadnought 3  
rosewood  
rosewood  
rosewood  
ovangkol  
rosewood  
maple  
undersaddle  
CD2H4011NTII  
MD28CU31NTII  
L09CU31PSB  
Dreadnought 4  
undersaddle  
L-Style  
undersaddle  
Grand Auditorium  
Orchestra Model 1  
Jumbo 12 String 1  
Jumbo 2 Mag  
undersaddle  
T4144011PP  
undersaddle  
MOM21CX11NT1  
GF412SM58PP  
GJ200SM58REH  
MD16CU31REH  
T414U47REH  
undersaddle  
maple  
magnetic soundhole  
magnetic soundhole  
magnetic soundhole  
magnetic soundhole  
magnetic soundhole  
dynamic  
Dreadnought 5 Mag  
Grand Auditorium 2 Mag  
Orchestra Model 2 Mag  
Grand Concert 2 Mag  
rosewood  
ovangkol  
rosewood  
mahogany  
small diaphragm condenser  
large diaphragm condenser  
large diaphragm condenser  
small diaphragm condenser  
MOM21CX111REH  
M00184011REH  
17-50 No Sound Image, pickup only  
*Note: All mixes are factory preset to a blend of 75% sound image and 25% pickup.  
34  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Programs  
01  
02  
03  
04  
05  
06  
07  
08  
09  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
36  
37  
38  
39  
40  
41  
42  
43  
44  
45  
46  
47  
48  
49  
50  
35  
Acoustic Imaging Blender Aura  
Limited Warranty  
Save your original sales receipt. It is your proof of purchase if you require warranty service.  
The Fishman Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender (“Product”) is warranted to the original consumer purchaser to be free of  
defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one (1) year from the date of  
purchase. If the Product fails to function properly due to defects in materials or workmanship during the applicable  
warranty period, Fishman Transducers Inc. (“Fishman”), at its option, will repair or replace the Product, with no charge  
for labor or materials. Lost digital data is not covered under this warranty. This warranty applies only if the Product is  
sold and delivered within the U.S. by an authorized Fishman Dealer.  
Warranty service and repair for the Fishman Aura is to be made only at the factory in Wilmington, MA. Unauthorized  
repairs will void this warranty.  
Note: For factory warranty service, the customer must prepay freight to Fishman.  
To obtain factory service:  
An Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender repaired under warranty at the Fishman factory will be returned to the customer via  
UPS ground freight, prepaid by Fishman to any location within the continental United States.  
Important!  
A Product that is returned to Fishman which is not covered by the terms of this warranty will be repaired and  
returned C.O.D. with billing for labor, materials, return freight and insurance.  
For factory service, you must deliver the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender via prepaid freight to Fishman.  
1 Contact Fishman Transducers Factory Service via email ([email protected]) to obtain a Return Authorization  
number (RA number). Products returned without an RA number will be refused.  
2 Pack the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender in its original shipping carton. Include your shipping address (no P.O. boxes  
or route numbers). Also include a copy of your sales receipt and a note that explains how to duplicate the problem.  
If we cannot duplicate the problem at the factory or verify the original purchase date, we may, at our option, charge  
for parts/labor and return shipping.  
3 Ship the Aura Acoustic Imaging Blender freight prepaid to:  
Fishman Transducers Service Department  
340 Fordham Road  
Wilmington, MA 01887 USA  
EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY PROVIDED IN THIS DOCUMENT, THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,  
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL FISHMAN BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF PROFITS OR  
INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER SIMILAR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR OTHER OBLIGATION  
CONTAINED IN THIS OWNERS' MANUAL. THE WARRANTY CONTAINED HEREIN SHALL NOT APPLY IF THE SERIAL NUMBER IS DEFACED OR REMOVED OR THE  
PRODUCT HAS BEEN DAMAGED BY ALTERATION, MISUSE, ACCIDENT, NEGLECT OR USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED ATTACHMENTS.  
513-000-006 Rev A 12-03  

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