The Carl Martin Acoustic GiG combines a preamp, effects, EQ and DI output in a multi-effects pedal for acoustic guitar. It is designed for use with acoustic-electric guitar in live performance, rehearsal or recording, bringing essential functions together in a single floor unit without menus or presets.

• Multi-effects pedal for acoustic guitar with preamp and DI
• Compressor/limiter for even dynamics
• Vintage Style Echo with tap tempo and dotted 8th function
• Analogue/digital hybrid reverb, clean boost and semi-parametric 3-band EQ
• Phase Shift for reducing feedback
• Balanced XLR DI, serial insert loop and built-in tuner

Dynamics and EQ

The signal path is arranged to allow the dynamics, tone, ambience and level to be adjusted during use. Acoustic GiG features a Compressor/Limiter circuit with separate Comp and Level controls for evening out dynamics while adding fullness and sustain. This can help place both light picking and harder strumming more evenly in the mix.

The semi-parametric 3-band EQ controls bass, midrange and treble. The midrange frequency can be adjusted from 220 Hz to 5.1 kHz, making it possible to find and adjust relevant frequency areas for the guitar or pickup. The EQ section can be used for tone shaping and for managing problematic frequencies on stage.

Echo, reverb and boost

The Vintage Style Echo section is based on the character of older tape echo units and produces warm, musical repeats. It includes controls for echo level, repeat and a low-pass Tone filter, as well as foot-operated tap tempo. The dotted 8th function adds a rhythmic subdivision, for example for arpeggios and rhythm playing.

The reverb section is an analogue/digital hybrid with a warm character inspired by spring reverb. At higher settings, the effect becomes more modulated and takes on a chorus-like depth. The boost function provides up to +12 dB of clean level when a solo or passage needs to stand out more clearly in the mix.

Phase, tuner and connections

Acoustic GiG features a Phase Shift switch that changes the signal phase on all outputs. With acoustic instruments that are sensitive to feedback, the function can be used to find the setting with the least tendency towards feedback before making further EQ adjustments.

The built-in chromatic tuner is activated with the Mute function, allowing silent tuning between songs. Connections include a 1/4" input, unbalanced 1/4" output and balanced XLR DI output with ground lift. The signal can therefore be sent to an amplifier and simultaneously to a mixer or audio interface. A serial insert loop, positioned after Boost and before EQ, also allows external effects to be added.

Technical specifications

• Buffered bypass
• Input impedance: 1 MO
• Unbalanced 1/4" output: 600 O
• Balanced DI output: 200 O
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 60 dB
• Compressor gain range: ±20 dB
• Echo time: up to approx. 1000 ms
• Boost: up to +12 dB
• Bass: ±15 dB at 20–500 Hz
• Midrange: ±15 dB at 220 Hz–5.1 kHz
• Treble: +15 dB at 1.5–16 kHz
• Power supply: 9 V DC, regulated, minimum 600 mA, 2.1 mm centre-negative
• Power consumption: max. 500 mA
• Cannot be operated with a battery
• Dimensions: 60 x 120 x 365 mm
• Weight: 1.25 kg

Carl Martin Acoustic GiG combines tone shaping, effects, DI and live control in a single pedal for acoustic guitar.