Introduction
The Ibanez AEQ-SP1 is a versatile preamp system designed specifically for Ibanez acoustic-electric guitars. With its compact size and useful features like an onboard tuner, EQ controls, and feedback reduction, it provides amplification and tone-shaping capabilities for gigs and studio use.
The AEQ-SP1 is commonly found on many popular Ibanez acoustic-electric models, including the AEWC and AE series guitars. It’s optimized to work with Ibanez’s own under-saddle piezo pickups, providing a seamless solution for players who want plug-and-play functionality without having to install an aftermarket preamp.
Some of the key features that make the AEQ-SP1 stand out are its chromatic tuner, 3-band EQ with mid-sweep frequency, notch filter for feedback control, and input designed for Ibanez’s Fishman Sonicore pickup. Together these attributes give players a straightforward tool for dialing in their amplified acoustic tone, whether on stage or in the studio.
Onboard Tuner
The AEQ-SP1 preamp comes equipped with an onboard tuner that provides a convenient way to tune your Ibanez acoustic guitar. To access the tuner, press and hold the Tuner button located on the preamp. The tuner display will then appear in the LED screen.
To use the tuner, simply play a note on your guitar and the display will tell you if you are sharp, flat, or in tune. The tuner is designed to be fast and accurate, analyzing your note and responding immediately. The LED display is bright and easy to see, even in dim lighting conditions on stage.
The AEQ-SP1’s tuner is precise to within +/- 1 cent, making it extremely accurate. It can handle a wide tuning range from A0 to C8, covering the full tonal range of the guitar. The note name and deviation are clearly shown on the digital display in real time as you play.
Overall, the onboard tuner adds a very useful feature that makes setup and tuning a breeze before performances or practice sessions. Musicians will appreciate the accuracy, speed, and visibility that the AEQ-SP1 tuner provides.
EQ Controls
The AEQ-SP1 features a straightforward 3-band EQ, giving you control over low, mid, and high frequencies. This allows you to shape your acoustic tone to suit different playing styles and environments.
The low EQ has a frequency range down to 80Hz, letting you boost the low end for a punchier bass response or cut it to reduce boominess. The midrange band is fixed at 800Hz, a useful frequency for bringing out the core of the acoustic guitar’s tone. The high band goes up to 12kHz, providing brightness and clarity.
Having individual low, mid, and high controls makes it easy to tweak your acoustic’s natural tone. For example, you can add low end punch for rhythmic strumming, bring up the mids to make melodies stand out in a mix, or boost highs to add shimmer and cut through the mix. The AEQ-SP1 gives you flexibility without overwhelming you with too many bands.
Feedback Reduction
The Ibanez AEQ-SP1 preamp system utilizes a feedback reduction circuit to help minimize squealing feedback when using the guitar live. This can be a major advantage for amplified acoustic guitars which are prone to feedback issues when played at high volumes.
The feedback reduction works by using a notch filter that detects and suppresses problem frequencies that are likely to cause feedback. It’s not always completely able to eliminate feedback, but it can significantly reduce it to make the guitar easier to control on stage.
Based on user reviews and tests, the AEQ-SP1’s feedback reduction is quite effective at taming feedback, especially in the crucial midrange frequencies. It allows the volume to be pushed higher before feedback becomes problematic. The difference is very noticeable when toggling the feedback reduction on and off.
One area where the feedback reduction really helps is when using heavier gauge acoustic strings that are louder and brighter. It allows the guitar to be played at higher gain settings with less chance of squealing or howling. Overall, the AEQ-SP1 preamp earns high marks for making Ibanez acoustics much more feedback resistant on stage.
Input
The Ibanez AEQ-SP1 preamp features an input designed specifically for the Fishman Sonicore under-saddle pickup. This allows for seamless integration and optimized performance with the popular Fishman pickup system.
The preamp’s input stage provides the proper impedance matching and gain structure to amplify the Fishman Sonicore signal cleanly and accurately. This results in a very natural and balanced amplified tone, without excessive noise or distortion that can occur from mismatched impedance.
Compared to the stock Ibanez undersaddle pickup, the Fishman Sonicore produces a more full-bodied and rich acoustic tone when paired with the AEQ-SP1 preamp. The Fishman pickup captures more nuance and resonance from the guitar body and strings. This additional acoustic detail comes through thanks to the preamp’s Fishman-optimized input stage.
Overall, the AEQ-SP1’s input compatibility with the Fishman Sonicore pickup is a major benefit. It allows acoustic players to upgrade their pickup and get better amplified sound, while still being able to use the convenient onboard preamp and tuner. The Fishman and AEQ-SP1 combination delivers studio-quality acoustic tone in a hassle-free live performance package.
Output
The AEQ-SP1 preamp system features a standard 1⁄4 inch output jack to connect your guitar to an amplifier, PA system, or mixing console. This allows you to easily plug in using a regular instrument cable for live performances or recording situations.
Unlike some higher-end preamps, the AEQ-SP1 does not include advanced output options like balanced XLR or stereo outputs. It’s designed to provide a simple, no-frills output connection. The single 1⁄4 inch jack is all you get, but it handles the job well for most acoustic guitarists’ needs.
If you require a balanced XLR output or other specialized connectivity, you’ll need to use a DI box or other external device with the AEQ-SP1. But for plugging into a guitar amp or PA at a coffee shop gig, the standard 1⁄4 inch output gets the job done. Just be aware that the preamp itself does not offer alternative output configurations.
Battery Life
The Ibanez AEQ-SP1 requires a single 9V battery to operate. From my experience using this preamp, I typically get around 100 hours of playing time before the battery needs to be replaced. This can vary depending on several factors:
- How often the onboard tuner is used – The tuner draws additional power and will decrease battery life if used extensively.
- Battery brand – Some brands may provide longer life than others. I’ve found the Duracell Coppertop to work well.
- Playing volume – Higher volumes put greater demand on the preamp and battery.
- Infrequent use – If the guitar sits unused for long stretches, the battery can slowly drain even when not playing.
To maximize battery life, I recommend turning off the preamp when not playing, limiting tuner use, and replacing the battery annually even if it still seems to work. Overall the AEQ-SP1 is relatively efficient and 100 hours is on par with other acoustic preamps in this price range. Just be sure to keep spare 9V batteries on hand for gigs and recording sessions.
Installation & Setup
Installing the Ibanez AEQ-SP1 preamp on your acoustic guitar is a straightforward process, though having some basic DIY skills and the right tools will make the job easier.
You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, wire cutters/strippers, and soldering equipment if you need to attach new wires. It’s wise to have extra wire, solder, heat shrink tubing, and electrical tape on hand as well.
The preamp module mounts inside the guitar body, often under the end pin jack. There are typically two screws to secure it in place. The battery holder attaches nearby, also held by two screws.
The pickup wires connect to the input jack on the preamp. If your guitar didn’t come pre-wired, you’ll need to solder the pickup cables to the jack. Attach the output wire to the output jack.
Once everything is mounted and connected, install a fresh 9V battery in the holder and secure the back plate. Double check your connections and test the preamp controls before re-stringing.
Some tips for a smooth installation:
- Use a guitar wiring diagram for reference
- Work slowly and carefully
- Keep wires organized and strain-reliefed
- Test periodically to catch errors early
- Allow full battery contact in the holder
- Position parts securely to avoid rattling
- Consult an expert if you’re unsure of any steps
Proper setup will allow you to get the most out of your Ibanez acoustic guitar and AEQ-SP1 preamp system. Taking the time to install it correctly will reward you with great tone and seamless performance.
Sound Quality & Performance
The Ibanez AEQ-SP1 preamp provides a very natural and balanced acoustic tone that accurately captures the inherent sound of the guitar. There is a clarity and richness to the amplified tone, with crisp highs and tight lows. Notes have excellent definition, allowing complex chords and fingerpicking passages to come through clean and articulate.
In terms of noise and unwanted artifacts, the AEQ-SP1 performs quite well. There is very little hiss or hum even at higher gain settings, and the onboard feedback controls do an effective job at eliminating squealing feedback before it occurs. The only minor issue is that maxing out the EQ can induce some noise, but this is easily controlled by dialing back the EQ a bit.
Compared to other popular acoustic preamps like the Fishman Prefix Plus or LR Baggs Venue, the AEQ-SP1 holds its own very well. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of more advanced preamp systems, the core sound quality and usability competes with preamps costing twice as much. It has a very natural acoustic character similar to the Baggs, and doesn’t color the tone as much as the Fishman. For the price, the AEQ-SP1 provides exceptional performance that enhances rather than overpowers the guitar’s natural voice.
Compatibility & Replacement Parts
The Ibanez AEQ-SP1 preamp comes standard on many popular Ibanez acoustic-electric guitar models, including:
- AEWC10
- AEWC32
- AE245
- AEG18
- AEG8II
It is also commonly added as an upgrade or replacement preamp on older Ibanez acoustic guitars.
To check if your Ibanez acoustic has the AEQ-SP1 preamp system, look for the following:
- The preamp control panel near the guitar’s soundhole. It will have knobs for volume, treble, mid, bass, and feedback reduction.
- A model number starting with AEWC, AE, or AEG.
- A rectangular battery box holder on the back of the guitar near the strap button.
If your Ibanez does have the AEQ-SP1 installed, you can purchase replacement parts directly from Ibanez or any authorized dealer. Some common replacement parts include:
- The preamp unit itself (part # AEQ-SP1)
- The battery box holder (part # 5ABB21AB)
- Volume and tone control knobs
- Endpin jack
- Pickup and endpin wires
Replacement parts are relatively affordable, with the preamp unit averaging around $100-150. Installation is straightforward for experienced guitar techs.