marcjwebbmusic wrote:theoretically though this shouldnt be the case should it? if i get a lowish signal on the bare piezo, shouldnt i get an even lower signal from the head?
No, Using s stick will give you more velocity. There's no point trying to set MD for a bare piezo, cause you'll have to change them once attached to your pads.
If you have a low signal then it could be a faulty piezo or MD setting, as Ignotus sais.
If you have no signal, as you stated, then it could be a faulty piezo or note disabled.