A CS sensor is a specialized type of passive transducer designed to capture the subtle vibrations originating from the top of a stringed instrument.
According to the provided reference: "CS Sensor is a revolutionary passive transducer that transmits the top vibrations as the strings are plucked or body tapped (golpe)."
Understanding the CS Sensor
To break down this definition, let's look at the key components:
- Passive Transducer: A transducer is a device that converts one form of energy into another. In this case, it converts mechanical vibrations into electrical signals. Being "passive" means it doesn't require external power (like a battery) to operate, unlike active pickups or sensors.
- Transmits the Top Vibrations: The sensor is specifically designed to be placed on or near the soundboard (the top) of the instrument. It picks up the way the top vibrates when the strings are played or when the instrument's body is tapped (a technique known as golpe in styles like flamenco).
- Strings are Plucked or Body Tapped: This highlights the specific actions the sensor is meant to capture – both the direct string energy transmitted to the body and the percussive sounds made by tapping on the instrument's surface.
How Does it Work?
While the exact technology isn't detailed, passive transducers often utilize principles like piezoelectricity, where certain materials generate a small electrical charge when subjected to mechanical stress (like vibrations).
Key Characteristics
- Focus: Captures the instrument's body resonance and percussive sounds, in addition to string vibration.
- Nature: Passive (no power required).
- Placement: Designed for the top/soundboard.
- Purpose: To translate natural acoustic vibrations into an electrical signal for amplification or recording.
Applications
Based on its function, a CS sensor would typically be used with:
- Acoustic guitars
- Flamenco guitars (due to the mention of golpe)
- Other acoustic stringed instruments where capturing body resonance and percussive techniques is desired.
It serves as a way to reproduce the instrument's natural acoustic sound and percussive elements through an amplifier or sound system, often complementing or replacing other types of pickups.
