LightWave technology utilizes light sensing electronics to detect the vibration of the string, enhancing the instrument’s true voice by eliminating the magnetic influence or “pull” inherent in traditional pickups. Our optical sensors provide a flat, even response throughout the tonal spectrum of the vibrating string, producing a sonic foundation that accurately represents the intended musical expression of the player. It’s the most powerful and responsive method of string transduction ever developed.
What you will hear is extraordinary: the sound of the strings, the sound of the instrument, and most importantly, the sound of your music. You will notice a whole new sensitivity in the interaction between your fingers and the strings. Whether playing chords, slap style, screaming leads, tight intervals, complex voicing or harmonics, your LightWave instrument will be a revelation. You will hear an openness, transparency and dimensionality unlike anything you have previously experienced.
Natural Sustain
The LightWave Optical Pickup System does not interfere with the vibration of the strings, allowing them to sustain naturally. These highly sensitive pickups read string vibration for its full duration, fading in a pure, linear fashion into silence, without an abrupt ending or distorted artifacts. The vibrations from the string are like ripples upon water that gradually get smaller over time, and the optical pickups can effortlessly read these vibrations far beyond the capacity of human hearing. Due to these unique characteristics, our instruments do not require greater mass to achieve higher levels of sustain. You can play longer and with less strain, without having to give up the tonal qualities a heavier instrument will normally give you.
Silence is Golden
Unlike magnetic pickups, the LightWave Optical Pickup System has virtually no inherent noise. As a result, you can play at any volume without annoying background hum or buzz. This is an breakthrough for recording: virtually noise-free, extraordinarily transparent sound. Even with your amp at high volume, you experience amazing dynamic range and sensitivity – loud notes will be loud and clear, while soft notes and subtle nuances are not masked by hum or buzz.
