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Dave Martone on PZ-DI




   
 

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PZ-DI FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
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Q:
How does the PZ-DI compare to the PZ-Pre?
  
A: They are similar in that they both have two channels. The PZ-Pre is really designed for two acoustic instruments as it is equipped with feedback filters and multiple XLR outs for onstage use. Although you could use an electric through a PZ-Pre, it is not equipped with Drag Control which is important for the tone purest. The output of the PZ-Pre mixes both signals while the PZ-DI keeps them separate.

Q: How does the PZ-DI compare to the Bassbone?
  
A: They are similar in that they both have two channels. The Bassbone adds a powerful EQ on channel two to allow the artist to better adjust the tone of the bass on stage. The PZ-DI is better equipped for the electric guitar purist and the filters are designed to accommodate a piezo. The output of the Tonebone mixes both signals while the PZ-DI keeps them separate.

Q: How does the PZ-DI compare to the BigShot i/o?

A: In a way, the BigShot i/o is a simple passive ‘true-bypass’ version of the PZ-DI in that it allows to instruments to be selected. But the i/o does not have buffering, separate guitar amp outs or a built-in direct box.

Q: Can I use the PZ-DI with two electric guitars?

A: You could, but you may be better served with the lower priced BigShot i/o. The PZ-DI is not designed to send the two pickup signals to the same amp. So this may not work for your setup.

Q: Can I use the electric and acoustic outputs at the same time?

A: Yes. Both are completely independent except at the tuner where they
combine.

Q: Why does the PZ-DI use a 15V volt supply – not a 9V?

A: Unlike guitar pedals that merely need to control electric guitars, the PZ-DI also must control acoustic signals. These tend to have radical transients with more dynamic range. This means it needs more headroom. More headroom is accomplished with more voltage, thus the reason we use a 15 volt supply.

Q: Are there any manufacturers that make multi-power supply bricks for Tonebones?

A: Yes; The Cioks DC10 and AC10 both have 15V outlets for Tonebone pedals.

Q: Will the PZ-DI alter my electric guitar tone?

A: Yes and no. the PZ-DI will buffer your guitar and it will lower the impedance. This lowers noise, allows you to run longer cables and eliminates the popping when you switch pickups on and off. To counter any effect that the buffers may have on the signal, we have added a feature called Drag Control. This lets you adjust the load on the pickup so that it sounds natural. Carlos Santana, John Petrucci, and Steve Lukather all use radial buffers with Drag control when they record. We think they would be just about as picky as anyone else!

Q: Can I use the Tuner out as a combined output?

A: Yes, but there is no way to turn this off. This output is always active.

Q: Can I power the PZ-DI using 48V phantom form the mixing console?


A: No. Phantom power does not have enough current to power he PZ-DI. This is why the PZ-DI comes equipped with a power supply.

Q: Will turning on the phantom power hurt the PZ-DI?


A: No. The PZ-DI is equipped with DC blocking capacitors at the XLR output connector to protect it from phantom power.

Q: Can I use the electric and acoustic outputs at the same time?

A: Yes. Both are completely independent except at the tuner where they
combine.