Wow, Claymore, I'm going to try your "button connections plate" test.

And yes, I sent the tech folks at Fishman an e-mail when I posted here. Their product support function is separate from Martin, but their product is definitely physically integrated with the guitar.

Just heard back today and, as expected, I need to send them "the system" and they'll "evaluate it and see what the problem is." That's how their warranty works. As noted above tho' I'm playing a lot these days and, as it turns out, the Martin is my main instrument right now. I told the Fishman guy (in Massachusetts) that I'd rather blow-off the warranty and pay to replace the unit closer to home (Wisconsin). I'm not a spendthrift, but I've been through these sorts of warranty gerbil wheels before and wound up renting and borrowing guitars to keep my practice and gig commitments, and waiting, and wating, and waiting.... Am not disagreeing re their helpfulness, ol' Fishman and I are just operating under different logic systems.

So I have a date with a local guitar geek next Weds. to try to solve the power puzzle. I'll throw as many of your comments and ideas into the mix as I can.

Thanks!!

- Merritt