Reviving this topic, since the last posts were about 10 years ago(?) at fiddlehangout.com/archive/26520. I am using an LR Baggs bridge mounted pickup that's connected to a Carpenter 1/4" output jack. I understand there are chinrests that incorporate a 1/4" jack (Darol Anger uses one), which would avoid whatever effect the clamped jack might have on tone. Anyone use a chinrest like this, have thoughts, or suggestions? Thanks.
Darol's a member here; you might try messaging him.
Edited by - JonD on 06/06/2024 19:04:56
which would avoid whatever effect the clamped jack might have on tone.
Not sure I understand the "might have on tone"? Can you tell much difference with vs without your current clamp affecting tone much?
Of course shouldn't much at all when plugged in, as it's output is from the bridge pickup.
Seems like that would be a pretty elegant way to connect an electric fiddle to the amplifier, with the jack built into the chin rest. SO good an idea, I cant believe that someone is not making these as an off the shelf item.
My problem with any electrical connection on fiddles is that the contact invariably gets a coating of rosin over time and you get poor conductivity and lots of noise. I used the very BEST Switchcraft sealed 1/4" jacks on my Barcus-Berry fiddle for over 35 years, and would still need to replace it every few years or so. This set up Daryl uses must have provisions for replacing the jack or at the least the ability to clean the contacts really well.
I looked around online and found a couple, but they seemed to be sold as part of outfits with pckups, were very expensive, and in one case unavailable (and in another you had to supply the Switchcraft jack). You might try contacting the Violin Shop in Nashville - its founder invented the Carpenter jack, and surely he thought about this idea.
You could also try modifying a stock chinrest, but it would have to be a pretty big one.
I also wonder if there's not a better connector available than a 1/4" jack, which seems pretty big for a violin to begin with. I think 1/8" jacks are too unreliable, but there are lots of connectors out there, and I'm thinking of something more like the little locking connectors used on wireless microphone transmitters. The disadvantage would be you couldn't just use a guitar cord if you forget yours, but it might be an option.
Edited by - DougD on 06/07/2024 07:57:20
