What is an acoustic pickup? An acoustic pickup is a transducer that converts the vibrations of an acoustic guitar string into an electrical signal. This signal can then be amplified and processed to create a variety of sounds.
Editor’s Note: This article on “acoustic pickup” was published on [date] because of its importance to musicians who want to amplify the sound of their acoustic guitars.
After doing some analysis and digging through tons of information, we put together this acoustic pickup guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences or Key Takeaways:
| Type | Sound | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Piezo | Bright, twangy | $50-$200 |
| Magnetic | Warm, natural | $100-$300 |
| Hybrid | Combination of piezo and magnetic | $150-$400 |
Main Article Topics:
Acoustic Pickup
Acoustic pickups are essential for amplifying the sound of acoustic guitars. They come in a variety of types, each with its own unique sound and price point. Here are 10 key aspects of acoustic pickups to consider:
- Type: Piezo, magnetic, or hybrid
- Sound: Bright, warm, or a combination of both
- Price: $50-$400
- Installation: Easy, moderate, or difficult
- Compatibility: With different types of guitars
- Features: EQ, feedback control, etc.
- Brand: Fishman, Seymour Duncan, LR Baggs, etc.
- Reviews: From other users
- Warranty: Length and coverage
- Return policy: In case you’re not satisfied
When choosing an acoustic pickup, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a bright sound, you might want to choose a piezo pickup. If you’re looking for a warm sound, you might want to choose a magnetic pickup. And if you’re looking for a combination of both, you might want to choose a hybrid pickup.Ultimately, the best way to choose an acoustic pickup is to try out different types and see what sounds best to you. With so many different options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect pickup for your needs.
Type
The type of acoustic pickup you choose will have a significant impact on the sound of your amplified guitar. Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of acoustic pickups:
- Piezo pickups are the most popular type of acoustic pickup. They are mounted under the bridge saddle and sense the vibrations of the strings. Piezo pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound.
- Magnetic pickups are mounted on the soundboard of the guitar and sense the vibrations of the strings through a magnetic field. Magnetic pickups are known for their warm, natural sound.
- Hybrid pickups combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups. They offer a blend of bright and warm sounds.
Ultimately, the best way to choose an acoustic pickup is to try out different types and see what sounds best to you. But understanding the different types of pickups available will help you narrow down your choices.
Sound
The sound of an acoustic pickup is determined by a number of factors, including the type of pickup, the placement of the pickup, and the construction of the guitar. However, the most important factor in determining the sound of an acoustic pickup is the type of pickup.
Piezo pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound. This is because piezo pickups are very sensitive to high frequencies. Magnetic pickups are known for their warm, natural sound. This is because magnetic pickups are less sensitive to high frequencies and more sensitive to low frequencies. Hybrid pickups combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups. They offer a blend of bright and warm sounds.
The placement of the pickup also affects the sound. A pickup that is placed closer to the bridge will produce a brighter sound. A pickup that is placed closer to the neck will produce a warmer sound. The construction of the guitar also affects the sound. A guitar with a thin top will produce a brighter sound. A guitar with a thick top will produce a warmer sound.
The sound of an acoustic pickup is important because it can affect the overall sound of your amplified guitar. If you are looking for a bright sound, you should choose a piezo pickup. If you are looking for a warm sound, you should choose a magnetic pickup. And if you are looking for a combination of both, you should choose a hybrid pickup.
| Type of pickup | Sound |
|---|---|
| Piezo | Bright, twangy |
| Magnetic | Warm, natural |
| Hybrid | Combination of bright and warm |
Price
The price of an acoustic pickup can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of pickup, the brand, and the features. However, most acoustic pickups will fall within the price range of $50-$400.
- Type of pickup: Piezo pickups are typically the most affordable type of acoustic pickup, with prices starting at around $50. Magnetic pickups are typically more expensive, with prices starting at around $100. Hybrid pickups, which combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups, are typically the most expensive type of acoustic pickup, with prices starting at around $150.
- Brand: The brand of the acoustic pickup can also affect the price. Acoustic pickups from well-known brands, such as Fishman and Seymour Duncan, will typically be more expensive than acoustic pickups from lesser-known brands.
- Features: Acoustic pickups with additional features, such as EQ and feedback control, will typically be more expensive than acoustic pickups without these features.
It is important to consider your budget and your needs when choosing an acoustic pickup. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to choose a piezo pickup. If you are looking for a specific sound, you may want to choose a magnetic pickup or a hybrid pickup. And if you need additional features, you may want to choose an acoustic pickup with EQ and feedback control.
Installation
The installation of an acoustic pickup can vary from easy to difficult, depending on the type of pickup and the guitar. Piezo pickups are typically the easiest to install, as they can be mounted under the bridge saddle without any drilling or modification to the guitar. Magnetic pickups are typically more difficult to install, as they require drilling a hole in the guitar’s body to mount the pickup. Hybrid pickups, which combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups, can be either easy or difficult to install, depending on the specific design of the pickup.
It is important to consider the difficulty of installation when choosing an acoustic pickup. If you are not comfortable working on your guitar, you may want to choose a pickup that is easy to install. If you are comfortable working on your guitar, you may be able to install a more difficult pickup yourself.
Here are some tips for installing an acoustic pickup:
- Read the instructions carefully before starting the installation.
- Use the correct tools for the job.
- Take your time and be careful.
- If you are not sure how to do something, consult a qualified guitar technician.
| Type of pickup | Installation difficulty |
|---|---|
| Piezo | Easy |
| Magnetic | Moderate |
| Hybrid | Easy to moderate |
Compatibility
Acoustic pickups come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of guitars. The most common type of acoustic pickup is the undersaddle pickup, which is mounted under the bridge saddle. Undersaddle pickups are compatible with most acoustic guitars, including dreadnoughts, jumbos, and parlor guitars.Another type of acoustic pickup is the soundhole pickup, which is mounted inside the soundhole of the guitar. Soundhole pickups are less common than undersaddle pickups, but they offer a more natural sound. Soundhole pickups are compatible with most acoustic guitars, but they may not be compatible with guitars with narrow soundholes.Finally, there are also external acoustic pickups, which are mounted on the outside of the guitar. External acoustic pickups are the least common type of acoustic pickup, but they offer the most versatility. External acoustic pickups can be used with any type of guitar, including acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and bass guitars.When choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to consider the type of guitar you have. Undersaddle pickups are the most versatile and compatible with most guitars. Soundhole pickups offer a more natural sound, but they may not be compatible with all guitars. External acoustic pickups offer the most versatility, but they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as undersaddle or soundhole pickups.
Features
In addition to the basic functionality of converting the vibrations of an acoustic guitar string into an electrical signal, many acoustic pickups also offer a variety of additional features, such as EQ, feedback control, and phase inversion. These features can be very useful for improving the sound and performance of your acoustic guitar.
EQ (equalization) allows you to adjust the frequency response of the pickup, which can be helpful for compensating for the natural resonances of your guitar or for creating a specific sound. For example, you can use EQ to boost the treble frequencies to make your guitar sound brighter, or you can cut the bass frequencies to reduce feedback.
Feedback control helps to reduce feedback, which is a high-pitched squealing sound that can occur when the sound from your guitar’s speakers is picked up by the pickup and re-amplified. Feedback control can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as using a notch filter to identify and reduce the offending frequencies, or by using a phase inverter to cancel out the feedback.
Phase inversion is a feature that can be used to correct for phase problems between the pickup and the guitar’s preamp or amplifier. Phase problems can occur when the pickup is wired incorrectly, or when the pickup is not properly matched to the guitar’s preamp or amplifier. Phase inversion can help to improve the sound of your guitar by ensuring that the pickup and the preamp or amplifier are working together in phase.
These are just a few of the many features that are available on acoustic pickups. When choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to consider the features that are important to you. If you are looking for a pickup that offers a variety of features, you may want to choose a pickup from a well-known brand, such as Fishman or Seymour Duncan.
| Feature | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| EQ | Allows you to adjust the frequency response of the pickup. | Can be used to compensate for the natural resonances of your guitar or to create a specific sound. |
| Feedback control | Helps to reduce feedback, which is a high-pitched squealing sound that can occur when the sound from your guitar’s speakers is picked up by the pickup and re-amplified. | Can help to improve the sound of your guitar and make it more playable in live settings. |
| Phase inversion | A feature that can be used to correct for phase problems between the pickup and the guitar’s preamp or amplifier. | Can help to improve the sound of your guitar by ensuring that the pickup and the preamp or amplifier are working together in phase. |
Brand
Acoustic pickups are available from a variety of brands, each with its own unique sound and features. Some of the most popular brands of acoustic pickups include Fishman, Seymour Duncan, and LR Baggs.
- Fishman is one of the leading manufacturers of acoustic pickups. Fishman pickups are known for their natural sound and their ability to feedback.
- Seymour Duncan is another popular brand of acoustic pickups. Seymour Duncan pickups are known for their warm, vintage sound.
- LR Baggs is a leading manufacturer of acoustic pickups and other acoustic guitar electronics. LR Baggs pickups are known for their natural sound and their ability to feedback.
When choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to consider the brand of the pickup. The brand of the pickup will affect the sound, features, and price of the pickup. It is also important to read reviews of different acoustic pickups before making a purchase.
Reviews
When it comes to choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to read reviews from other users. This can give you valuable insights into the sound, features, and performance of the pickup. Here are a few things to look for when reading reviews:
- Overall sound quality: What do other users say about the sound of the pickup? Is it bright, warm, natural, or a combination of all three?
- Specific features: Do other users mention any specific features that they like or dislike about the pickup? For example, some pickups have built-in EQ, feedback control, or phase inversion.
- Compatibility: Do other users mention any compatibility issues with the pickup? For example, some pickups are only compatible with certain types of guitars or amplifiers.
- Durability: Do other users mention any durability issues with the pickup? For example, some pickups are more susceptible to feedback or damage than others.
Reading reviews from other users can help you make an informed decision about which acoustic pickup is right for you. By taking the time to read reviews, you can avoid making a costly mistake and ensure that you get the best possible pickup for your needs.
Warranty
When choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to consider the warranty. The warranty will protect you in case the pickup fails or malfunctions. The length and coverage of the warranty will vary depending on the manufacturer. Some manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty, while others offer a more limited warranty. It is important to read the warranty carefully before making a purchase.
The length of the warranty is important because it will determine how long you are protected in case of a problem. A longer warranty will give you more peace of mind and protection. The coverage of the warranty is also important. Some warranties only cover defects in materials and workmanship, while others cover a wider range of issues. It is important to make sure that the warranty covers the type of problem that you are most likely to encounter.
Here are some examples of the types of coverage that may be included in an acoustic pickup warranty:
- Defects in materials and workmanship
- Electrical failures
- Mechanical failures
- Damage due to normal use
- Damage due to accidental misuse
It is important to note that some warranties may not cover damage caused by neglect or abuse. It is also important to keep your receipt as proof of purchase in case you need to make a warranty claim.
By understanding the importance of warranty length and coverage, you can make an informed decision about which acoustic pickup is right for you.
| Manufacturer | Warranty length | Warranty coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Fishman | Lifetime | Defects in materials and workmanship |
| Seymour Duncan | 5 years | Electrical and mechanical failures |
| LR Baggs | 3 years | Damage due to normal use |
Return policy
When choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to consider the return policy. The return policy will allow you to return the pickup if you are not satisfied with it. This is important because it gives you the opportunity to try out the pickup before you commit to buying it.
There are a few things to keep in mind when considering a return policy. First, make sure that the return policy is clear and easy to understand. Second, make sure that the return policy is long enough to give you enough time to try out the pickup. Third, make sure that the return policy covers the type of problem that you are most likely to encounter.
A good return policy will give you peace of mind and protection. It will allow you to try out the pickup before you commit to buying it. This can help you avoid making a costly mistake.
Here are some examples of the types of return policies that may be offered by acoustic pickup manufacturers:
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- No-hassle return policy
When choosing an acoustic pickup, it is important to compare the return policies of different manufacturers. This will help you find the best return policy for your needs.
By understanding the importance of a return policy, you can make an informed decision about which acoustic pickup is right for you.
| Manufacturer | Return policy |
|---|---|
| Fishman | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Seymour Duncan | 60-day money-back guarantee |
| LR Baggs | 90-day money-back guarantee |
Frequently Asked Questions About Acoustic Pickups
Acoustic pickups are a great way to amplify the sound of your acoustic guitar. But with so many different types and brands of acoustic pickups on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about acoustic pickups:
What is an acoustic pickup?
An acoustic pickup is a transducer that converts the vibrations of an acoustic guitar string into an electrical signal. This signal can then be amplified and processed to create a variety of sounds.
What are the different types of acoustic pickups?
There are three main types of acoustic pickups: piezo, magnetic, and hybrid. Piezo pickups are the most popular type of acoustic pickup. They are mounted under the bridge saddle and sense the vibrations of the strings. Magnetic pickups are mounted on the soundboard of the guitar and sense the vibrations of the strings through a magnetic field. Hybrid pickups combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups.
Which type of acoustic pickup is right for me?
The type of acoustic pickup that is right for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Piezo pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound. Magnetic pickups are known for their warm, natural sound. Hybrid pickups combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups.
How do I install an acoustic pickup?
The installation of an acoustic pickup can vary from easy to difficult, depending on the type of pickup and the guitar. Piezo pickups are typically the easiest to install, as they can be mounted under the bridge saddle without any drilling or modification to the guitar. Magnetic pickups are typically more difficult to install, as they require drilling a hole in the guitar’s body to mount the pickup. Hybrid pickups, which combine the elements of both piezo and magnetic pickups, can be either easy or difficult to install, depending on the specific design of the pickup.
How much do acoustic pickups cost?
The price of an acoustic pickup can vary depending on the type of pickup, the brand, and the features. However, most acoustic pickups will fall within the price range of $50-$400.
What are some of the best acoustic pickups on the market?
Some of the best acoustic pickups on the market include the Fishman Matrix Infinity, the Seymour Duncan SA-6, and the LR Baggs Anthem.
Tips for Choosing the Right Acoustic Pickup
Acoustic pickups are a great way to amplify the sound of your acoustic guitar and enhance your playing experience. Here are five tips to help you choose the best acoustic pickup for your needs:
Tip 1: Consider the type of music you play. Different types of music require different sounds. If you play folk or country music, you may want a pickup that produces a bright, twangy sound. If you play jazz or blues, you may want a pickup that produces a warm, natural sound.
Tip 2: Consider the type of guitar you have. Not all acoustic pickups are compatible with all types of guitars. Make sure to choose a pickup that is designed for your specific guitar model.
Tip 3: Consider your budget. Acoustic pickups can range in price from $50 to $400. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.
Tip 4: Read reviews. Once you have a few pickups in mind, read reviews from other users to get their opinions on the sound, features, and performance of each pickup.
Tip 5: Try out different pickups. The best way to choose an acoustic pickup is to try out different models and see which one sounds best with your guitar. Most music stores will allow you to try out different pickups before you buy one.
By following these tips, you can choose the right acoustic pickup for your needs and improve your playing experience.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explored the topic of acoustic pickups. We have discussed the different types of acoustic pickups available, the factors to consider when choosing an acoustic pickup, and the benefits of using an acoustic pickup. We have also provided a few tips to help you choose the right acoustic pickup for your needs.
Acoustic pickups are a great way to amplify the sound of your acoustic guitar and enhance your playing experience. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right acoustic pickup for your needs and get the most out of your guitar.