ZR-C101 (Impedance Rod)

Analog preamp for passive piezo strings instruments

A wearable belt-mounted, full analog high-Z preamp and impedance adapter for passive piezo pickups. Keeps the preamp stage next to the instrument (not on it), preserves resonance and articulation, and delivers a stable, PA-ready line signal.

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Core functionality

Analog preamp with selectable Hi-C / Lo-C input stages and an adjustable level. Same Hi-C / Lo-C topology used across the Z series — designed for passive piezo systems,

Repeatable instrument response

Buffers the pickup at the source so articulation, attack and feel remain consistent regardless of cable length, effects chain or destination. The instrument behaves the same every time you plug in.

Designed for the full bowed-string range

High headroom and linearity handle demanding outputs — from violin up to double bass — without clipping or smearing transients. Suitable for the most challenging piezo pickups.

Wearability & clip design

Compact aluminum chassis with custom high-retention belt clip engineered to remain secure during active stage movement. Keeps electronics off the instrument to avoid damping the top plate.

Input

3.5 mm mono input accepts compact angled mini-jack plugs.
Designed for use with LO-C low-capacitance instrument cable series (≤ 1.5 m) .

Plugging in the cable switches the unit on.

Output

6.3 mm mono line output — drives DI, PA or pedal input reliably.

Battery / power

Power: 9 V battery (not included) · Current: 25 mA — High-performance battery required.

Estimated worktime on rechargeable battery: 10h

Overview

ZR-C101 — Impedance Rod

The Impedance Rod adresses lack of proper buffering solutions for accoustic and electric string instrument players who do not use any effects, nor have a pedalboard. Whether plugging straight to PA, via dibox or wireless system - the lack of matched impedance often results in the instrument being more "difficult" to play on.

The ZR-C101 is a fully analog high-impedance preamp that **sits with the player, not on the instrument**. Buffering the pickup close to the source makes the instrument's articulation and transient response repeatable and reliable — no matter what you plug into next.

This close-to-source buffering eliminates cable-loading problems: reduced high-end roll-off and consistent level/headroom for PA or recording chains. It handles demanding piezo outputs across the whole bowed-string spectrum (violin → double bass).

In short: the ZR-C101 gives you predictable feel, repeatable articulation, and full-range headroom for professional bowed-string use — all while keeping the instrument free and comfortable.

Require high-performance 9 V cells (6FR61 recommended) to maintain stable voltage and low noise throughout long sessions. The unit automatically powers on with the plug inserted and has a LED battery status system.