Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System Review: The Professional Standard for Stage-Ready Acoustic Tone
If you have ever stepped onto a stage with a beautiful acoustic guitar only to have it sound like a thin, plastic toy through the PA system, you know the frustration. For years, I struggled with the “quack” of cheap piezo pickups and the feedback nightmares of using external microphones in loud rooms. Finding a way to translate the rich, wooden resonance of a high-quality instrument into an electronic signal without losing its soul is the holy grail for acoustic musicians. When you can’t capture that natural warmth, your performance suffers because you aren’t inspired by what you hear. This is exactly why a professional-grade solution like the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System exists. Without a high-fidelity preamp and a sensitive transducer, your audience misses the nuances of your playing, and you’re left fighting your gear instead of making music.
- Acoustic Pickup with Soundhole-mounted Controls - Narrow Saddle
- Soundhole-mounted rotary controls for Volume and Tone
What to Consider Before Investing in Guitar Pickups & Pickup Covers
Choosing a guitar pickup system is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for bridging the gap between a private practice session and a professional performance. The right system doesn’t just make the guitar louder; it preserves the dynamic range and the specific “voice” of your instrument. In the world of acoustic amplification, the technology has evolved from simple magnetic coils to complex undersaddle transducers and internal microphone blends. A high-quality system ensures that whether you are fingerpicking a delicate ballad or strumming a heavy bluegrass rhythm, the output remains clear, balanced, and feedback-resistant.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a gigging musician, a recording artist, or a serious hobbyist who owns a high-quality acoustic guitar and wants to amplify it without cutting large holes in the side of the instrument. It is perfect for those who prioritize a discrete look and professional-grade fidelity. However, it might not be suitable for those who own vintage guitars and are strictly against any permanent modifications (like drilling an endpin hole), or for absolute beginners who might find the professional installation process too daunting or expensive compared to a simple clip-on magnetic pickup.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: It is vital to check your saddle width. The Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System comes in a “Narrow” format (3/32″ or 2.3mm) and a “Wide” format (1/8″ or 3.2mm). Choosing the wrong one will result in poor string balance or the pickup not fitting into the bridge slot at all.
- Capacity/Performance: Look at the preamp’s headroom and frequency response. A 5-watt output and 2-band control system (Volume and Tone) are standard, but the “Voicing” switch is the real performance-maker here, allowing you to toggle between a flat response and a bass-boosted profile depending on your guitar’s size.
- Materials & Durability: Since the pickup sits under the saddle, it must be made of high-quality materials that can withstand hundreds of pounds of string pressure without degrading. The stainless steel enclosure of the Fishman preamp ensures that the internal electronics are shielded from interference and physical damage.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the battery life and accessibility. Most undersaddle systems require a 9V battery inside the guitar. You want a system that is efficient so you aren’t changing batteries every week, and controls that are easily reachable through the soundhole without being eyesores.
While the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- These enclosed pickup housings are made of plastic for a durable, high-quality product with a long lifespan. Smooth black makes your guitar more stylish and beautiful.
- The Donner guitar pickups FITS in soundholes from 3.8” (96.6mm) to 3.94” (100mm) diameter.
- Pickup Covers fit most single coil pickups,SAPHUE Pickup Covers is compatible with strat fender stratocaster electric guitars.The switch tip has a cross hole which can fit most USA Fender switches or...
First Impressions and the Discrete Sophistication of the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System
When I first unboxed the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System, I was struck by how streamlined and “pro” the entire kit felt. Unlike some older systems that involve bulky control panels and massive wiring harnesses, the Matrix Infinity is impressively minimalist. The “Narrow Format” undersaddle element is incredibly thin—almost like a piece of high-tech ribbon—and the soundhole-mounted controls are small enough to stay hidden but large enough to feel substantial under your fingertips. Before you even install it, you should see its full feature set and user reviews to understand why this has become the industry standard for brands like Martin and Taylor.
The build quality is exactly what you would expect from Fishman: robust and precise. The preamp module is housed in a sleek casing that feels like it could survive decades of vibration inside a guitar body. Initial impressions suggest a system designed for the “set it and forget it” musician—someone who wants their guitar to look completely stock from the outside but sound like a studio recording once plugged in. Compared to previous versions, the “Infinity” update brings improved electronics and a more ergonomic control layout that fits a wider variety of soundhole shapes.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional string-to-string balance thanks to the world’s best-selling Acoustic Matrix undersaddle pickup.
- Discrete soundhole-mounted controls for Volume and Tone that don’t require cutting into the guitar’s wood.
- Built-in switchable voicing to accommodate various guitar body sizes and playing styles.
- Active electronics provide a strong, low-impedance signal that resists hum and signal loss over long cables.
Drawbacks
- Requires permanent modification (drilling the endpin and a small hole in the bridge).
- The adhesive for the soundhole control module can be finicky on certain wood finishes.
A Deep Dive into the Performance of the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System
The “Acoustic Matrix” Transducer: Unmatched Tonal Transparency
The heart of the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System is the undersaddle transducer. Having tested dozens of pickups, I can say that many undersaddle piezos suffer from a “compressed” sound that lacks air. However, we found that the Acoustic Matrix element used here is surprisingly transparent. It captures the percussive snap of the strings and the woody resonance of the top with remarkable accuracy. During our testing, the string-to-string balance was the standout feature; the high E-string was just as present as the low E, without any of the “hot spots” often found in cheaper ribbon pickups.
This balance is achieved through the physical design of the sensor, which is consistent across its entire length. This is a critical benefit for fingerstyle players who need every note of a complex chord to ring out clearly. One user we spoke with noted that they installed this into a Guild Peregrine and found it to be a direct, superior replacement for older systems, providing a much more focused low-end. To get the best results, you should ensure your bridge slot is perfectly flat, which is a feature that really sets it apart when paired with a professional setup.
Advanced Preamp Engineering and Discrete Controls
The preamp is where the magic happens. Unlike passive pickups that can sound muddy or weak, the active preamp in the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System boosts the signal right at the source. This ensures that even if you’re running a 20-foot cable to your amp, the tone remains crisp and high-fidelity. The soundhole-mounted rotary controls are a masterclass in ergonomics. They sit just inside the rim of the soundhole, allowing for quick adjustments mid-song without needing to look down. The tone control isn’t just a simple treble roll-off; it actually scoops the mids as you increase it, which helps the guitar sit better in a busy mix with a full band.
We particularly love the “Voicing” switch located on the preamp body. For smaller guitars like an OOO or a parlor, the flat setting keeps the sound tight and punchy. For larger dreadnoughts, the bass-boost setting adds a layer of “thump” that makes the guitar feel massive through a PA system. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for a musician who owns multiple instruments. You can check the latest price and availability for this system to see why it’s considered a must-have upgrade for serious performers.
The Installation Process: Precision and Patience
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: installation. While Fishman recommends professional installation, we found that a handy musician with a steady hand and a drill can certainly handle it. The process involves enlarging the endpin hole to 1/2″ to accommodate the output jack and drilling a tiny 3/32″ hole in the bridge slot for the pickup wire. The “Narrow Format” is specifically designed for saddles that are 3/32″ wide, which is standard on many modern guitars. If you’re hesitant about the DIY route, user feedback suggests that the instructions are thorough, but the “nerve-wracking” part of drilling into your instrument is real.
One detail we confirmed through multiple user reports is the importance of saddle height. Since the pickup adds about 0.035″ of height to your saddle, you will likely need to sand down the bottom of your bridge saddle to maintain your action. One user mentioned using 60-grade sandpaper for this task and achieving perfect results. Another user highlighted that getting their arm into the guitar to secure the preamp was the hardest part, jokingly suggesting they needed a “student with a tiny arm” to help. Despite these hurdles, once it’s in, it’s rock solid. You can find more tips on the process and read more user experiences regarding the setup to prepare yourself.
Reliability and Gig-Ready Durability
A pickup is only as good as its reliability on a Tuesday night in a humid club. The Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System is built for the road. The stainless steel enclosure of the preamp isn’t just for show; it acts as a shield against electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is a common problem in venues with neon signs or old wiring. During long-term use, the battery life is impressive—Fishman claims up to 160 hours on a single 9V battery. In our experience, changing the battery every few months is more than enough for most players.
One recurring piece of feedback from the community concerns the adhesive mounting for the control module. While many find it stays put for years, a few users have noted that the control unit can occasionally fall into the guitar if the wood wasn’t cleaned properly before sticking. We recommend using a bit of isopropyl alcohol to clean the underside of the soundhole before installation to ensure a permanent bond. Despite this minor annoyance, the actual electrical performance remains flawless. It is truly a “pro” sound quality upgrade that takes your guitar from an amateur bedroom sound to a stadium-ready powerhouse. To see the longevity of this product in action, check out the detailed customer photos and long-term reviews.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment for the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System is overwhelmingly positive, especially among those who have tried cheaper alternatives. Many users describe the sound as “superb” and “unbelievably good.” For example, one user who installed it in a 1978 Martin D-35 followed the direct advice of the Martin guitar company, who recommended this specific unit. Upon playing it, they were “totally blown away” by how closely it mimicked the natural acoustic tone of the guitar. Another user praised the customer service at Fishman, noting that they were extremely responsive when they had questions about whether to choose the narrow or wide format.
However, no product is without its critics. A few users expressed frustration with the installation logistics, specifically the aforementioned adhesive issue for the soundhole controls. One user noted, “The volume/tone control unit… just will not adhere very well.” There was also a report of a user receiving a repackaged unit that was missing instructions, highlighting the importance of buying from reputable sources to ensure you get a factory-fresh product. Despite these small gripes, the consensus is clear: if you want the best possible sound from an undersaddle pickup, this is the one to get.
Comparing the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System to Top Alternatives
While the Fishman is a titan in the industry, depending on your guitar and your willingness to drill holes, one of these three alternatives might be a better fit for your specific needs.
1. KNA Classical Flamenco Guitar Pickup
- NATURAL SOUND REPRODUCTION – Captures the authentic tone of your nylon-string guitar with clarity and balance.
- LIGHTWEIGHT WOOD-ENCLOSED SENSOR – Enhances tonal sensitivity while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
The KNA NG-1 is a very different beast compared to the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System. This is a passive piezo pickup designed specifically for nylon-string guitars. Its main advantage is that it is entirely non-invasive; it slips under the string loops on the bridge tie-block. For players who own a classical or flamenco guitar and refuse to drill any holes, this is a fantastic choice. However, because it is passive and lacks an onboard preamp, the signal is much weaker than the Fishman, and you will likely need an external preamp or a high-quality DI box to get a comparable stage volume.
2. Amumu SP30 Magnetic Soundhole Pickup
- ★ Clear & Balanced Sound: Custom Rare Earth Neodymium Magnet and hand-wound oxygen-free copper coil provide low noise with bright, balanced tones.
- ★ Compatibility: Suitable for steel-string acoustic guitars with soundholes between 3.82” (97 mm) and 4.33” (110 mm); not compatible with nylon-string and 3/4-size guitars, such as Taylor Baby...
If you are looking for a quick, battery-free solution for a steel-string guitar, the Amumu SP30 is a solid budget contender. Unlike the undersaddle Fishman, this is a magnetic pickup that clips directly into the soundhole. It offers a very “electric” acoustic sound—think early Bob Dylan—which some players actually prefer. It’s significantly easier to install (it takes seconds) and requires no permanent modifications. However, it cannot capture the body resonance or the “air” of the guitar as well as the Matrix Infinity, making it less ideal for those seeking a true natural acoustic tone.
3. K&K Pure Mini Acoustic Guitar Pickup
- Pickup with 3 piezo heads
- Frequency Response Ideal for Acoustic Guitar
The K&K Pure Mini is often cited as the primary rival to the Fishman for “best natural tone.” Instead of an undersaddle element, it uses three transducer heads that glue to the bridge plate inside the guitar. It is a passive system, meaning it requires no batteries, which many purists love. While it produces a very “woody” and warm sound, it is much more prone to feedback at high stage volumes than the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System. If you play solo in quiet rooms, the K&K is amazing; if you play with a loud drummer, the Fishman is the safer, more professional bet.
Final Verdict: Is the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System the Right Choice for You?
After a deep dive into the specs, the installation process, and the real-world performance, it is clear why the Fishman Matrix Infinity Pickup System remains a top-tier choice for acoustic musicians. It offers a nearly perfect blend of tonal transparency, stage reliability, and discrete aesthetics. Its main strengths lie in its incredible string balance and the sophisticated active preamp that allows you to tailor your sound to any room. While the installation requires some handiness and the adhesive for the controls can be slightly annoying, these are small prices to pay for a professional-grade sound that will last for decades.
We recommend this system to any serious guitarist who needs their instrument to perform reliably in a live setting. Whether you are playing a small coffee shop or a large festival stage, this pickup will give you the confidence that your guitar sounds exactly like it should—only louder. If you are ready to stop fighting with microphones and low-quality pickups, we highly recommend you check the current price and pick up the Fishman Matrix Infinity today to transform your live performance experience.
Last update on 2026-08-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API