Len Ovens <len(a)ovenwerks.net> writes:
There are lots of guitar to USB audio devices out
there and it seems
they have all done them wrong. I modified one of them and it actually
sounds very good. Perhaps better than plugging into the "high
impedance" input of many audio interfaces or using a DI box into a mic
input. The result is a much more open sound in particular with single
coil pickups (or tapped as I happen to have).
Why do I think they have likely all done them wrong? The Application notes
say: "Please follow the reference schematic for microphone section
design." So not only is it easy but it is recomended. I am sure it
works well for a computer mic.
Anyway, for those who want a good quility direct to usb guitar cable
here is my journey to fix a toy into something better.
https://www.ovenwerks.net/hardware/GuitarUSBhack/index.html
I find it amazing that the manufactures would not reduce their parts
count while making a better product.
You could go the opposite way: scavenge a cheap electret microphone
capsule for its FET and put it in your guitar cable (with a small DC
blocking capacitor) as a source follower at the guitar end.
That would provide the guitar with super-high impedance while making the
connection quite impervious to noise. Also uses the interface chip and
circuitry as intended by the manufacturer.
And you don't need to mess with the "guitar to USB audio" device.
--
David Kastrup