1-800-849-3305
Distortion problem
August 15, 2010 - 1:16pm
Just received my CA 12-string. Love it. But am having lots of distortion when amplified. The harder I strum, the more I get. I suspect undersaddle ribbon system. Any advice?
August 15, 2010 - 4:34pm
#2
Changed the battery several times; played with the notch filter; tried 3 different DIs through 2 different systems; think I've ruled out everything external to the guitar.
August 16, 2010 - 8:16am
#3
Took Michael Stone's advice and re-seated the saddle over the ribbon, changes the strings and voila! No distortion. The guy's a genius.
August 17, 2010 - 5:05am
#4
Congrats on the guitar acquisition and the fact that you solved the problem. And WELCOME TO THE FORUM! 
August 23, 2010 - 1:59pm
#5
Good to hear that the problem's solved. This is a somewhat common problem for undersaddle ribbon systems, and so here's the information that I provide when someone has this problem.
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This is a somewhat common problem with undersaddle ribbon systems, and I'm guessing it has to do with either the strings, ribbon, or saddle. Please do the following:
-If you haven't already, please change the strings. Strings do not travel well and can cause a number of problems.
-Make sure that the ribbon is lying flat in the saddle slot. It may have shifted slightly during travel. It should run the length of the saddle slot without any bends in the ribbon. There should be a small black spot at the end of the ribbon that is facing up. The saddle slot itself should be flat and free of any small debris.
-Please check the bottom of the saddle by placing it on a flat surface in the dark and then shining a light on the saddle. If any light comes through the bottom, then you may need to sand the bottom of the saddle with fine sandpaper and steel wool to smooth it a bit.
-Once the guitar is restrung, check the saddle position. It may have shifted slightly forward with the string pressure. You can take a pencil and with the eraser, gently push the saddle back to an upright position. You want see or feel any movement - it's just a very gently microshift.
If you still have problems, please call me at 1-800-849-3305.
For your reference, the Element Active manual is at the below link.
LR Baggs Element Active Manual
Please contact me with any questions.
Thank You,
Michael Stone
Did you change the battery?