Shadow SH Z1-NFX Zither Pickup

The Shadow SH Z1-NFX Zither Pickup appears to be a very rare and specialised item. I have used a condenser mic very successfully, but really wanted something that would also provide for easy chromatic tuning and not miss out on some of the strings (particularly the high register). The built in pre-amp boosts the signal enough for a tuner. The attachment clamp was unusable with my zither because there is simply insufficient space around the edges of the instrument. The tuning pegs were always too close to the pre-amplifier housing. Eventually I removed the clamping components completely and used double sided adhesive tape to secure it to the side of the instrument. The main pickup element is attached with the double sided tape provided to the underside of the instrument as detailed in the instructions. The output from the Shadow pre-amp is rather low and muffled, but cleaned up impressively when fed through a BBE Acoustimax. Unfortunately when cleaned and boosted, there is noticeable hiss from the Shadow pre-amp. This is the only downside to it and it is tolerable, particularly if a microphone is used as well. I have at last been able to tune up quickly and easily. The BBE Acoustimax is not required for tuning. One star down due to the hiss.