Fishman SBT-E Soundboard Transducer

Fishman SBT-E Soundboard Transducer — Passive Pickup for Acoustic Instruments

Fishman SBT-E Soundboard Transducer is a passive contact pickup that mounts to the flat soundboard of an acoustic stringed instrument and senses the top's micro-vibrations to reproduce a full, natural, transparent tone. It ships with a Fishman Switchjack™ stereo switching endpin jack for permanent installation in the end block. This transducer suits acoustic players who want a low-profile, non-invasive amplification solution that preserves the natural voice of their instrument.

What Sets the SBT-E Apart

Unlike under-saddle piezo strips, this model does not require saddle modification, making it a practical alternative to more expensive bridge-mounted units. The Switchjack supports simultaneous stereo operation and battery switching for pairings with an internal microphone or active preamp.

Physical Dimensions and Build

The transducer element is a small flat disc with a shielded lead wire, designed to sit unobtrusively against the underside of the soundboard.

• Disc Diameter: 17 mm — fits between bridge braces on most flat-top instruments
• Item Weight: 45 g — light enough not to affect soundboard resonance
• The pickup type is a Piezoelectric soundboard contact pickup, which is engineered to sense subtle micro-vibrations rather than direct string pressure.

Output and Connectivity

Designed as a fully passive unit, it can be run directly into a mixer, acoustic amp, or an impedance-matching preamp such as the Fishman Platinum Stage, Platinum Pro EQ, or Powerjack.

• Output Connector: 6.35 mm (1/4") jack — compatible with standard instrument cables
• Power Requirement: Passive (no battery) — always ready to play
• Included Jack: Fishman Switchjack™ stereo switching endpin jack — supports stereo operation and battery switching

Installation and Compatibility

Professionals often handle the setup: the transducer disc adheres to the underside of the soundboard and the Switchjack fits into the end block. Once installed, the pickup is invisible from the outside.

• Mounting Method: Surface mount with adhesive to underside of soundboard — no saddle modification
• Compatible Instruments: Any acoustic stringed instrument with a flat soundboard — classical, steel-string, mandolin
• Model Number: PRO-SBT-END