K&K Sound Bass Master Rockabilly Quick Start Manual

92798 Cape Arago Hwy
Coos Bay, OR 97420
Phone (541) 888-3517
Fax (541) 888-4846
www.kksound.com
Bass Master Rockabilly
Each Bass Master Rockabilly can be fine-tuned via the separate bass and treble controls within
the dual channel preamp, providing an infinite range of combinations for every player and any
style of play.
The first component, the popular Bass Max, is mounted in the bridge wing. Two transducers are
combined using a sandwich technique, in order to maximize and enhance vibrations captured
from the entire bridge. Due to its specialized construction, only one unit is necessary to provide
an even signal from all four (or five) of the double bass' strings. Its strong midrange power is
ideal for cutting through the mix in loud rockabilly situations, or providing a warm and supportive
line for country bluegrass.
The second component is our specially modified single transducer. It is ideal for capturing
fingerboard sounds. Its unique size and shape allows precise placement, and the equalization
from the preamp lets you blend in just the right amount of slap, growl, and other fingerboard
sounds to achieve the exact sound coloration and effect you desire.
The dual channel preamp has internal gain, bass, treble trim pots for each pickup, allowing
impressive +/- 20dB tonal adjustments. External volume controls let you balance the volumes of
the bridge and fingerboard transducers on the fly. A convenient belt clip is included with this
compact preamplifier, which weighs a mere ten ounces with the battery installed. A six foot, high
quality three conductor (1/4" stereo) cable is included to complete the package.
Installation and Setup
Wing Transducer: You can attach the wing transducer on either side of the bridge. We
recommend trying the low string (E string) side first. If the slot is too narrow, DO NOT FORCE
THE PICKUP INTO THE SLOT! YOU WILL BREAK THE PIEZO CERAMIC ELEMENT AND VOID THE
WARRANTY! For the right fit, you may have to remove some material from the lower part of the
bridge. You'll achieve best results with a snug fit. If the slot is too big, please insert some
cardboard or veneer to build it up.
Fingerboard Transducer: We suggest you place the fingerboard pickup near the top of your
fingerboard, on the reverse side. The wire should travel behind your fingerboard, through the
bridge center "heart" (or the unused wing slot, if the heart is too small).
Before you proceed to attaching the fingerboard transducer, thread the transducer and wire
through the heart. A small piece of foam is supplied to isolate the wire from bridge vibrations;
wedge it into the bridge "heart" and cut a small slit in it. If the foam block is too large, trim it, but
allow enough excess material so it stays in place when compressed, isolating the wire.