Electrifying the Tradition: Testing the MSP Pickup on the Japanese Biwa with Sumire Kaoru

The Biwa is a traditional Japanese short-necked lute, known for its powerful, percussive accents and delicate, lingering resonances. However, capturing its complex soul through amplification has always been a challenge for performers—until now.

Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming Sumire Kaoru, an innovative player of the Chikuzen Five-String Biwa, to our studio. We conducted an experiment to see how the MSP Pickup by 123sound.jp could handle the unique structural demands of this historic instrument.

Reference articles:
Revolutionizing Biwa Amplification: A Special Session with Kaoru Sumire


A Seamless Blend of Magnetism and Tradition

One of the most significant advantages of the MSP Pickup is its magnetic mounting system. For an instrument as precious and rare as the Biwa, permanent modifications or drilling are out of the question.

Video Highlights:

  • 0:44 Introduction to the Chikuzen Five-String Biwa.

  • 1:53 How to attach carefully the MSP Pickup using magnets.

  • 4:30 Gear setup and signal chain.

  • 5:07 Sound comparison: Acoustic vs. Amp vs. Effects.

  • 7:29 Final impressions.

The Setup Used in the Video

To achieve her clear, professional tone, Sumire used the following configuration:

  • Pickup: MSP Pickup Simple Kit (with an additional 8mm positioning magnet) by 123sound.jp.

  • Preamp/DI: L.R. Baggs Venue D.I.

  • PA System: JBL EON208P.

 

Review & Setup by Sumire Kaoru

Sumire Kaoru has since shared a comprehensive review video detailing her home testing process. She demonstrates the installation and provides a clear sound comparison that is a must-watch for any acoustic musician looking to go electric.


| 123sound.jp (MSP pickup company site) | 123sound.jp SHOP |

#123sound.jp #Biwa #AcousticPickup #ContactPickup #JapaneseInstruments #WorldMusic #Lute #MusicalInnovation #PiezoPickup #SumireKaoru

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