FAQ - Pickup Systems

Does ZETA sell the pickup separate from the instrument?
At present time, ZETA pickup systems are available only on ZETA instruments.

My ZETA pickup system is producing low volume and/or distortion on one or more strings.

Here are some trouble-shooting tips for your ZETA pickup:

• Check the batteries.
  Most ZETA instruments feature active electronics and/or preamps. Violins, violas, and some earlier model cellos and basses will use one 9v battery. Later model cellos and basses may use two 9v batteries.

• Clean the contact points between the strings and the pickup system.
  Especially important on ZETA instruments using the Jazz pickup system.

• Are you using the right strings?
  For best results, use ZETA Jazz Violin strings on violins with the Jazz pickup system. Use ZETA Strados violin strings on violins with E-Series or Strados pickup systems. This same logic applies to ZETA violas, cellos and basses.

• Check the internal trim pots.
  All ZETA instruments feature an adjustable trim pot for main volume. Many ZETA instruments feature adjustable trim pots for each string volume as well as main volume.

• Are you using the right amplifier?
  Especially crucial for the violins, violas and cello, the best tonal response is through the ZETA AE-12 amplifier.

If you have checked each of the above items, it is possible that your pickup may need factory-authorized repairs. Please contact ZETA Customer Service.

Adjusting the volume control on my ZETA instrument changes the instrument's tone.
Most likely your ZETA instrument is passive - meaning, there is no internal power source, such as a 9volt battery, to boost the output signal.

The tone change is caused by a change in resistance when the volume level is adjusted. This is a common feature of passive electronic instruments, and can actually be used to adjust the tone in addition to volume.

Which ZETA instruments are MIDI capable?
Currently, all ZETA solid body violins, violas, cellos and basses feature MIDI capability when used in conjunction with the Synthony II MIDI controller / synthesizer.

Can you send me a catalog?
Yes! Please contact ZETA with your Name, Address, Phone#, Email and we will send you a complimentary full-color catalog.

What are the best strings to use for my ZETA instrument?
For the best possible results, use ZETA strings on your ZETA instrument.

How do I clean the brass saddles on my Jazz Pickup System?
To remove debris from bridge, simply apply gentle sweeping pressure with a dry, hard bristle toothbrush.

Once the bulk of the debris has been removed, use a cloth which has been very slightly dampened with de-natured or rubbing alcohol to clean the brass saddles. This process should remove any excess debris, as well as any tarnish. Please be very careful not to allow any spill over of alcohol into either the pickup itself, or onto the neoprene seating surrounding the brass saddles.

What size allen wrench is used for the Jazz Standard Violin hex tuning pegs?
The Jazz Standard violin uses a 5/64" allen wrench.

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