Schertler Stat Select Vintage - Double Electrostatic Bridge Pickup with Pre-A 111 Preamp

Shertler Stat Select Vintage Click on the image for more views

I've read your write up about the Schertler Stat Select. What is the main difference between the Shertler Stat Select Vintage and the Schertler Stat Select?

That's an excellent question. Let's get down to Schertler terminology first. The term "Stat" refers to the miniature "electrostatic microphone" that fits - in the form of a cork capsule - into the eye - sometimes referred to as the "wing-hole" of the bridge. The "Stat" then is the heart of both systems. In the Stat Select the system comprises of a single cork capsule that has to be mounted into the treble (G-string) side eye (wing hole) of the bridge. In the Stat Select Vintage the system consists of two cork capsules. Obviously one capsule fits into the treble eye - the other fits into the bass eye.

I've heard that the double pickup system of the Stat Select Vintage has set a new standard for balanced sound that is full of both space and richness. Is that correct?

Yes - the level and quality of balanced sound that the Stat Select Vintage provides has bought a big smile to performing players, recording artists and sound engineers alike.

I thought that the Stat Select Vintage was only available from Schertler as a special order. Is that correct?

Yes. It is only since June 2010 that it has been available from specialist retail shops. Prior to that you had to be pretty determined to get hold of one.

Apart from double "Stats" - is the Stat Select Vintage identical to the Stat Select?

Yes - both sets are packaged in identical black cordura carry pouches and both sets come with the "Pre-A 111" preamp, high quality cables and a specially designed clip to attach the connector to the tailpiece of the instrument.

Are the two "Stats" on the Shertler Select Vintage both connected to the one 6mm jack socket?

Yes. Factory installed "Tasker" shielded signal leads connect the two "Stats" to a single female RCA phono plug (jack socket).

I am a bit confused by the similar sounding names that Schertler have given to its Select series of pickups. I completely understand that "Vintage" means double pickups. What then - is the difference between this set - the Schrtler Stat Select Vintage and the Shertler Stat Set Vintage?

Both the Stat Select Vintage and the Stat Set Vintage are identical in every detail - all bar one - which is they feature a different type of preamp. With the Stat Select Vintage you get the latest generation "Pre-A 111". With the Stat Set Vintage you get the "Stat-Pre".

So what are the main differences between the Pre-A 111 and the Stat Pre?

That's a more difficult question. The sophisticated Pre-A 111 has so much packed into it that a few words will never do it justice. The best thing to do is to read about the Pre-A 111 on its own pages in our section on preamps. For clarity between the two systems you might also find it useful to read about the Shertler Stat Set Vintage on its own pages. For those of you who still just want to get some sort of an overview for now - we would best describe the Pre-A 111 as a floor-mounted unit that is mains operated. The unit offers both dry and equalized outputs and has individual Volume, Resonance, Bass, Treble and Gain controls. The Stat-Pre on the other hand is powered by an internal 9-volt battery and has just the one control knob - which is a Gain (The Gain - allows you to adjust the amplification of the input signal.) control. The advantages of this are twofold. Firstly it means that the unit is small and light enough for the player to mount on his belt by means of an optional clip. Secondly it means that the player has no problems with a mains power source restricting his onstage movements.

OK - if I associate "Select" with being bigger and better as in having the more sophisticated, more "Select" Pre-A 111 - I've got that too.

There you go. "Select" means with Pre-A 111.

Now let me get this straight. So for the player who is performing more or less in situ - the Pre-A 111 allows the ultimate in performance flexibility and for the player requiring complete on stage portability it is the more basic Stat-Pre that allows the ultimate in ease of use and versatility. Correct?

Yes correct. Obviously there are other things that you should consider - but hopefully this will help point you in the right direction for what you need - Stat Select Vintage or Stat Set Vintage.

OK - I've followed you so far. Tell me about the double "Stats". I've heard that they provide a balanced performance that is simply sublime.

Yes that is correct. Double bassists right around the world regard the Shertler Stat Select Vintage pickup system very, very highly. This well deserved reputation is because the system provides a full and realistic string instrument sound with full bass tones and clear, bright trebles. The transducers are also well known for working well with any bass amplifier, for their high feedback resistance, for providing an impressive "bridge-sound" - without the harshness or distortion of a piezo pickup - and for their simplicity of installation.

Will I be interested in this pick-up?

The Shertler Stat Select Vintage works well for all playing styles. For those of you who play rock, fusion and jazz with loud amplified levels - the system's resistance to feedback is particularly attractive. Furthermore - the Stat Select Vintage works very effectively with signal processors and effects courtesy of its strong solid signal.

Tell me what I get when I purchase the Schertler Stat Select Vintage.

The Shertler Stat Select Vintage is packaged in a handy sized black cordura carry pouch with webbing handle, front opening zip and the Schertler logo on the front. The case is nicely made and has a soft fabric interior to cushion the contents whilst in transportation. On opening the case - there is everything you need to get you up and running in the minimum amount of time. The contents are as follows:

1) Two short - 27.0cm (ave) - high quality "Tasker Shielded Cable" signal leads with the factory fitted electrostatic transducers attached at one end and a female RCA phono plug attached at the other.
2) A custom-designed tailpiece fixing bracket - pre-assembled by the factory onto the phono plug.
3) A retaining knob with screw for securing the bracket onto the tailpiece.
4) Two tiny fibre wedges to support the transducers when they are fitted inside the eyes (wing holes) of the bridge.
5) An acoustic preamplifier - the "Pre-A 111".
6) A 1.82m (ave) "Mogami" low noise (patent pending) wire with a factory fitted male RCA phono plug attached to one end and a "Neutrik" professional quality 6mm (1/4in) jack attached at the other.
7) Installation instructions for the "Stats" in English, German, French and Italian.
8) Technical specifications for the Pre-A 111 in English, German, French and Italian.
9) Guarantee.

How does the equipment feel when you handle it?

Very nice indeed. You just know as soon as you pick up the various components of the system that everything is made from top quality components and fittings. Take for instance the two RCA plugs - they have a sort of weighty feel to them that just exudes quality and the contact points are plated in gold to ensure that there is absolutely no loss of signal. Take for instance the fact that the cables are shielded from radio interference and just take a look at the custom made fixing bracket and screw.

What do the actual "Stats" look like?

Each "Stat" looks like a small straight bottle cork (10mm x 8mm x 8mm) with a black PVC lead-cap at one end.

What is inside each Stat?

At the heart of each cork "capsule" is a miniature electrostatic microphone that is sealed inside a specially constructed sound chamber.

Tell me about fitting the Stat capsules.

The Stat capsules have to be mounted vertically into the eyes (wing holes) of the bridge with their black caps (signal-lead caps) facing towards the foot of the bridge. Installation instructions and diagrams are provided and are relatively easy to understand. The good thing about installing the two "Stats" is that it is not necessary to remove to the bridge and should only take a few minutes to get up and running. Here is a summary of the fitting procedure:

i) Each capsule needs to be fitted right in the middle of the eye of the bridge - i.e. centrally. It is helpful to draw two light pencil lines on the upper face of the bridge to indicate this central axis.
ii) The black cap end of each cork capsule - needs to be supported by one of the tiny fibre wedges that can be found in a small re-sealable plastic pouch. You will see that one side of the wedge is slightly convex and that one surface of the wedge is coloured white. For the treble side "Stat" - the convex surface needs to be glued to the bass (E-string) side of the lower eye so that the white surface is facing you. The wedge should be positioned central to the thickness of the bridge and - so as not to restrict the vibrations of the wing of the bridge - with a space of 1mm away from the corner of the wing. When fitted - the surface that is to support the capsule should be horizontal. The process is exactly the same for fitting the bass side "Stat" except that the convex side of the wedge needs to be glued to the treble (G-string) side of the lower leg.
iii) Before doing any gluing - test fit the position of the wedges to make sure that you are placing them in the correct position. Glue the wedges into position with quick drying super-glue. It is worth mentioning that on our test model both wedges had the white upper surface on the same side instead of for opposite leg fitment. Fitment was OK for the bass side eye – but for the treble side eye – one of the wedges needed to be turned around so that the white side was facing down towards the tailpiece. Not too much of a problem - but still - could cause a bit of head scratching.
iv) Next - the top of the cork capsule needs to be shaped to precisely match the rounded contour of the upper eye. The cork is quite soft and can easily be shaped with a flat rasp or file. Should a few millimetres of cork need to be removed this can be done with a sharp Stanley knife or razor blade before final shaping with the file. The capsule should fit into the eye with a comfortable amount of pressure. If it is fitted in too tightly - the pickup could lose it's "open" sound quality and more importantly - the pickup capsule could sustain damage.

At the other end of the Stat's signal leads is a female RCA phono plug. Where do I fit that?

The female RCA connector is secured by means of the factory attached fixing bracket and screw to the bass side of the tailpiece. With the socket pointing downwards - position the rubber cushioning washer that is affixed to the other end of the bracket - behind the round string hole at the base of the E-string slot. Insert the threaded screw through the front of the string hole and into the hole in the centre of the washer and through into the thread in the bracket. Tighten the screw until the bracket is secure.

The fixing bracket and screw look really neat.

Yes - the fixing bracket and screw have been specially designed by Schertler to hold the connector approximately 2cm away from the side of the tailpiece - so that it is easily accessible. The moulded black plastic knob at the top of the screw feels absolutely great in the hand and looks fab on the bass.

Each time I play - do I have to make any other adjustments?

No. Once the two Stats have been fitted - there are no further adjustments required other than making the usual connections to the external equipment.

Can I remove the two Stats if I need to?

Yes - the entire system can easily be removed at any time. All you need to do is unscrew the tailpiece bracket and carefully push out the Stats from the eyes of the bridge. The small wedges affixed to the lower eyes of the bridge can be left where they are - ready for the next time that you want to reinstall the system.

Can we get onto the Pre-A 111. It looks incredibly impressive.

Yes - the latest generation (first available in 2008) acoustic preamp from Schertler - the Pre-A 111 really is loaded with goodies for the recording and amplified bassist. In brief the compact device not only provides a +19dB preamplified signal ("dry output") for connection to any power amp or active speaker - it is musically and technically synchronized to the two Stats. Fine tuning equalisation ("main output") has been pre-tuned to frequencies which Schertler deem the most appropriate to the double bass and there are integrated Volume, Resonance, Bass, Treble, and Gain controls to provide a wide selection of tone and dynamic settings. If all that wasn’t enough the Pre-A 111 accepts both XLR (Canon) and 6mm (1/4in) jack inputs and has a regulated AC power supply. All this wizardry adds up to an incredible amount of onstage flexibility and a top class sound reproduction.

Schertler Stat Select Vintage - Semi-Fitted (Note - the "Stats" are located in bridge eyes only) Click on the image for more views

What does Shertler say about the Pre-A 111 in their technical specification fold-out sheet?

"The ACOUSTIC PREAMP PRE-A 111 is the result of a new amplification concept by means of an innovative circuit with class-A design with NO NEGATIVE FEEDBACK!! The generated signal reproduces an acoustic instrument's sound with incredible fidelity and response.

The choice of high quality components and the external (no battery) power supply provides solid circuit stability.

This preamplifier has been engineered and designed especially to derive the best performance from SHERTLER transducers and active loudspeakers. The sound quality of your amplified instrument will improve using the PRE-A 111."

Can you tell me briefly what all the knobs and buttons do on the Schertler Pre-A 111?

i) GAIN: The GAIN allows adjustment to the sensitivity of the balanced (XLR) and the unbalanced (jack) input.
ii) RESON: The RESON potentiometer allows adjustment of the attenuation resonance filter (cut or notch) at 180Hz to prevent feedback of the instrument. The filter has a medium Q (range). Reson is inactive at full left and provides maximum cut at full right.
iii)TREBLE: Allows the amplitude of high frequencies to be increased or decreased.
iv) BASS: Allows the amplitude of low frequencies to be increased or decreased.
v) VOLUME: Final amplification stage after filter and EQ adjustments for the OUTPUT (DRY OUT is influenced only by the GAIN - house system signal).
vi) 12V DC Input: Socket for a regulated 12V direct current supply.
vii) 10V DC Supply switch: Allows a DC supply voltage of 12V (R-4,7kΩ) to the input jack connector. For the STAT series microphones to work properly the 10V switch should be On (out position).
viii) GROUND LIFT switch: Allows the ground on the Dry Out to be disconnected in case of ground conflict.
ix) DRY OUT: The DRY-OUT is only gain-dependant and sends the clean signal without passing through the EQ filters. It is ideal for splitting the signal on stage and sending a dry signal to the FOH mixer or a Multi-track recorder.
x) OUTPUT: The OUTPUT gives you the signal after the EQ filters and volume. It is ideal for your personal active loudspeaker (monitor). When working with a bass amplifier the Pre-A 111 should be plugged into the "effect return" input, "master-in" or "slave-in" of the amplifier - to avoid the systems preamp. This will enable you to manipulate an "electric sound" into one with acoustic qualities.
xi) INPUT: The INPUT accepts both XLR (Canon) connector and 6mm (1/4in) jack.

Does the Pre-A 111 provide power to the Stat?

Yes - the double-Stat transducer has to be supplied with 10V phantom power to operate.

Can you remind me briefly what phantom power is?

Condenser mics, also known as capacitor or electrostatic microphones must have a source of direct electrical power in order to operate. Some models are powered by an internal battery, but most condenser microphones receive their power through the microphone cable from the input of the device to which they are connected, such as a mixer or microphone preamp. This method of sending a DC electrical voltage through the microphone cables is called "phantom power". In addition to powering the circuitry of the microphone the phantom powering directly or indirectly supplies the voltage used for polarizing (cause something to acquire polarity) the microphone's transducer element ("capsule"). Phantom powering consists of direct current applied equally through the two signal lines of a balanced audio connector (usually an XLR connector). The supply voltage is referenced to the ground pin of the connector (pin 1 of an XLR), which normally is connected to the cable shield or a ground wire in the cable or both.

How is the Pre-A 111 powered?

The Pre-A 111 is powered by a regulated AC (Alternating current i.e. "wall power") power supply. This along with the class-A (100% of the input signal is used. i.e. the active element works in its linear range all of the time) constant current circuitry ensures an optimum performance from the two Stats.

Just how compact is the Pre A-111?

Including the 5mm high rubber feet that are affixed to the base of the Pre A-111 for floor mounting - the unit measures 120x120x40mm and weighs only 390gms.

Where can I mount the Pre-A 111?

The Pre-A 111 is intended to be positioned as a floor unit. Don't worry too much about it getting damaged by carless stage hands - for the housing is made from cast aluminium and is well up to the job of protecting the internal circuitry.

What else will I like about the Pre A 111?

You'll just love the user friendly controls on the front of the unit and the clear labelling and Schertler logos on the top of the unit. You'll also love the rugged good looks of the cast aluminium housing and the small but chunky rubber feet that the unit sits quietly upon.

Anything else to appreciate?

Yes. In the middle of a gig you'll find it incredibly reassuring to see the small but intense blue - unit is receiving power - LED CHECK light glowing away at front bottom left of the unit.

Wow - that's a pretty complete review. How about a final summary?

The Stat pickup system was first introduced in 1988. Today it is used by thousands of musicians worldwide. We like the fact that both the double pickup and the preamp are made to an extremely high quality and standard of workmanship and that in combination as the Schertler Stat Select Vintage - the system offers the following:

a) It is simple to fit and use.
b) It delivers a fast signal response.
c) It provides wide tone and dynamic settings.
d) XLR and 6mm jack inputs make it incredibly flexible.
e) It is ideal where high amplifier levels must not present a handicap.
f) It provides high feedback resistance.
g) It provides an impressive "bridge sound".
h) There is NO piezo harshness or distortion.

OK - give me one last sentence.

You'll be completely fazed by the exceptionally high levels of performance and sound reproduction from this system.

Stats:

General:

Type: Double bridge-mounted electrostatic microphones with GAIN control preamp
Transducer mounting: In eyes (wing-holes) of bridge
Female RCA phono plug (6mm - jack socket) mounting: On bass side of tailpiece with special clip
Carry case dimensions including handle: 26.5 x 15.1 x 8.1cm (average)
Carry case dimensions without handle: 22.4 x 15.1 x 7.5cm (average)
Gross weight: 917.5gm (average)
Manufacturer: Schertler SA, Via Beroldingen 18, 6850 Mendrisio, Switzerland

Transducers (each cork capsule unfitted):

Length (inc end cap): 27.7mm (average)
Diameter (across cork): 10.0mm (average)
Nominal impedance: 1.6kohm
Frequency response: 20Hz to 12 KHz +/- 3dBu
Dynamic range: 75dB
Sens. On instrument: ca. -25dBu
Temperature range: -10°C to +50°C
Contacts: gold plated
Connection: Chinch (RCA) to mono Jack (phono plug)
0dBu: < = > 0.775V

Preamp:

Type: "Pre A-111"
Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 35mm
Dimensions including feet: 120 x 120 x 40mm
Weight: 390.0gm (average)
Power supply: 12V DC
Max input: -7 dBU (ideal for passive sources and mic signals)
Signal to noise ratio: 102dB
THD+N: < 0.05% @ -20 dBu, 1KHz
Input impedance: 10 kΩ
0dBu: < = > 0.775V

Pre-A 111 Main Output:

Frequency response: 10 to 50 kHz
Max output: +15 dBu
Nominal output level: 0 dBu
Max gain: +41 dB
Output impedance: 10 Ω
0dBu: < = > 0.775V

Pre-A 111 Dry Out

Frequency response: 14 to 50 kHz
Max output: +10 dBu
Nominal output: -12 dBu
Max gain: +19 dB
Output impedance: 100 Ω
0dBu: < = > 0.775V

Shertler Stat Select Vintage - Double Electrostatic Bridge Pickup with Pre-A 111 Preamp

Price : UK£765.00 - Convert price with XE.com Personal Currency Assistant