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Upgrade Your Acoustic Sound: Discover the 13 Best Guitar Pickups for Unmatched Clarity and Volume

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Are you looking to elevate your acoustic guitar's sound quality? Look no further! In this roundup article, we've curated a selection of the top acoustic guitar pickups on the market. From warm tones to crisp clarity, these pickups will transform your playing experience. Dive into the world of enhanced sound and discover the perfect pickup for your acoustic guitar.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualified purchases at no cost to you.

Reviews

guitar-pickup-guitto-guitar-soundhole-double-pickup-for-classic-acoustic-guitar-ggp-01-1

As a fellow guitar enthusiast, I've truly enjoyed using the Guitto GGP-01 Classic Acoustic Guitar Double Pickup. The dual microphones have captured the intricacies of my sound perfectly, and the piezoelectric pickup has allowed me to pick up a wider range of frequencies. This has resulted in a much more dynamic sound, which has really added a new dimension to my playing. The strong anti-interference capacity means that background noise is kept to a minimum, and it's great to see a product that truly values the user experience.

One of the standout features for me was the ease of installation. The pickup simply buckles onto the edge of the guitar's soundhole, eliminating the need for any drilling or modification to your instrument. This not only keeps your guitar in pristine condition, but it also means that the installation process can be done quickly and easily, even when you're on the go.

However, one slight drawback I noticed was the need for an external power source. While the included CR2 batteries offer a long-lasting battery life of over 40 hours, it can be a hassle to remember to switch them out or recharge them when the time comes. It would be great to see a built-in rechargeable battery system in the future.

Overall, the Guitto Classic Acoustic Guitar Pickup has been an excellent addition to my guitar setup, providing a rich and dynamic sound that really enhances my playing. The ease of installation, minimized background noise, and wide frequency range make this pickup a must-have for any acoustic guitarist.

adeline-piezo-transducer-pickup-very-convenient-for-acoustic-classical-guitar-ukulele-violin-cello-m-1

Introducing Adeline's AD85 guitar pickup, an exceptional choice for acoustic enthusiasts. This piezoelectric transducer pickup offers outstanding sound quality for various instruments, including classical guitar, ukulele, violin, cello, mandolin, banjo, and more. The Adeline AD85 seamlessly translates the warm and crisp tones unique to these vibrating string instruments, making it a prized addition for advanced musicians.

Boasting a user-friendly volume control, this pickup doesn't require a battery, offering a highly convenient performance experience. The solid wood grain design not only captures the nuances of the sound but also reduces potential distortion, ensuring a clear and well-balanced reproduction of the music. Adeline's AD85 guitar pickup is your go-to solution for any string instrument, providing exceptional performance for a wide range of musical styles.

sunyin-acoustic-guitar-pickuppiezo-transducer-contact-microphone-easily-amp-up-for-acoustic-classica-1

Looking for a versatile pickup to amplify your acoustic guitar or other stringed instruments? Meet the SUNYIN Acoustic Guitar Transducer. This little gem is a professional piezo contact microphone designed with a volume control, making it an essential addition to your instrument. The transducer is suitable for a variety of instruments such as classical acoustic guitar, violin, viola, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, cello, mountain dulcimer, and even cuatros.

The product is easy to use and install, as you won't need to open the hole on your instrument. Simply place the transducer next to the sound hole of your instrument, and when you're ready to play, remove it gently to prevent any residual glue from adhering to your instrument. With its contact microphone technology, it picks up sound directly from your instrument, eliminating external noises and providing a pure, clear sound.

Not only does the transducer work great for acoustic guitars, but it's also perfect for other instruments that require a clear and warm sound. Just plug it into your amp, bass amp, or recording equipment, and enjoy the enhanced sound of your strings. The SUNYIN Acoustic Guitar Transducer is a must-have accessory for any musician in need of a trusty pickup.

mojotone-quiet-coil-nc-2-acoustic-guitar-pickup-1

I recently got my hands on the Mojotone Quiet Coil NC-2 acoustic guitar pickup and was thoroughly impressed with its performance. I usually play solo gigs, so I needed a pickup that offered both a natural sound and minimal feedback. This pickup delivers on both fronts, thanks to its innovative mic technology that blends seamlessly with the acoustic sound. The onboard mic control allows me to tweak the level of mic input in my sound, giving me the perfect balance between the pickup's Magnet and the mic's natural acoustic sound.

The Mojotone Quiet Coil NC-2 also boasts the longest battery life I've ever seen in a guitar pickup, with 250+ hours on a single set of batteries. This is a huge advantage for me, as I don't have to worry about carrying extra batteries or running out of juice in the middle of a gig.

Another thing that I appreciate is the convenience of the battery test button. It's a simple yet effective feature that lets me know if my batteries are running low without having to remove them from the pickup.

This pickup also comes with a high-quality Mogami cable that feels sturdy and resilient. The stereo Switchcraft endpin jack is a nice touch, as it makes the installation process quick and easy.

One minor downside that I've noticed is the low-profile mounting ears, which can get in the way of my strumming sometimes. However, this isn't a deal-breaker for me, and the benefits of using this pickup far outweigh this small inconvenience.

Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with the Mojotone Quiet Coil NC-2 acoustic guitar pickup. Its innovative mic technology and exceptional battery life make it a top contender for any acoustic guitarist looking for a high-quality, reliable pickup that delivers both natural sound and minimal feedback.

emg-acs-acoustic-guitar-soundhole-pickup-black-bundle-w-12x-fender-guitar-picks-and-liquid-audio-pol-1

Experience superior amplified acoustic guitar tone without feedback issues with the EMG ACS Acoustic Guitar Soundhole Pickup. Its unique internal preamp, specifically designed for acoustic guitars, delivers authentic tone and a brilliant top-end.

The pickup offers a broader frequency range and significantly less noise compared to traditional piezo pickups, ensuring a clear and natural acoustic sound. Adjustable pole pieces allow you to easily customize the sound hole pickup to suit your preferences, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings.

The EMG ACS Acoustic Guitar Soundhole Pickup is suitable for large band playing, offering enough volume to effortlessly play alongside a band. This bundle includes the EMG ACS Acoustic Guitar Soundhole Pickup, 12 Fender guitar picks in assorted colors, and a Liquid Audio polishing cloth, making it easy to maintain your guitar's appearance while ensuring optimal performance.

homeswitch-plastic-301-acoustic-guitar-preamp-pickup-guitar-pickup-tuner-preamp-black-1

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Homeswitch Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp, and let me tell you, it seriously changed my game. Not only did it give my guitar a lively and dynamic sound, but it was also incredibly easy to install.

One thing that stood out to me was how solder-free the installation process was. It made everything much more convenient and hassle-free, especially compared to other guitar preamps I've used in the past where solder was a must.

Now, let's talk performance. The 301 Preamp offered amazing control over volume and EQ settings with its bass, midrange, treble, brilliance control, notch filter, and phase switch features. This helped me achieve a sound that was truly unique to me and my playing style.

But here's the kicker: the Homeswitch preamp allowed me to spend less time tweaking controls and more time playing what I love – music. It seriously saved me a ton of time and frustration, freeing up those precious minutes so I could focus on perfecting my chord progressions and solos.

That being said, the only downside I faced was having to frequently swap out batteries due to the 9V power source. It'd be great if there was a way to make the battery life last a little longer, but hey, that's just a minor sacrifice for such great sound and simplicity.

In conclusion, the Homeswitch Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp is an absolute game-changer for guitarists looking to uplevel their performance without the need for complicated solder set-ups. And for those who prioritize ease of installation and sound customization, you'd be hard-pressed to find a preamp as effective as this one.

schatten-design-ust-1a-undersaddle-guitar-pickup-w-preamp-1

The Schatten UST-1A pickup has been a game-changer in my acoustic guitar playing. I've tried it on both my steel and nylon string guitars, and it really does capture the essence of the instrument. The coaxial polymer element picks up vibrations from all directions, giving me a rich, full tone that's hard to beat.

One of the standout features is the fit of the pickup. It's designed to work with narrow and wide saddle slots, so I didn't have to worry about adjustments or needing a different model. Plus, the sensor is not string position dependent, ensuring a balanced sound no matter where I strum.

However, I found that I needed to use a preamp with this pickup since it's a passive one. I ended up getting the Schatten DI-Plus Preamp/DI, which worked great with the UST-1A. If you're not sure about getting a separate preamp, the UST-1A also comes with a preamp included, so you have options there.

Overall, the Schatten UST-1A is a high-quality pickup that's given my acoustic guitar playing a significant boost. It's worth considering if you're looking to upgrade your guitar pickup experience.

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I recently tried out the TIMESETL Piezo Disc Elements and found them to be a game-changer for my acoustic guitar pickup experience. The high-quality brass and ceramic materials make them not just durable but also stable, ensuring a long service life. The thin and lightweight design with a diameter of 27mm and a thickness of 0.4mm is perfect for my guitar.

However, I must admit I was a bit skeptical about the resonant frequency of 4.6 +/- 0.5 KHz, but it turned out to be quite high in performance. The resonant impedance of 300 ohms max, low power consumption, and high sensitivity really come in handy while playing the guitar, making it the best pickup I've ever used.

I have also come across the TIMESETL Acoustic Pickup, which is incredibly versatile and can be used as touch-sensors, electronic drum triggers, buzzers, or even making my own contact mics. It's been a pleasure incorporating these elements into various electronic products, including computers, printers, copiers, alarm systems, and more. With 15 pcs of these amazing piezo disc pickups, it's definitely worth giving them a try for all your acoustic guitar needs.

randon-acoustic-guitar-pickup-piezo-contact-pickup-for-guitar-ukulele-violin-mandolin-banjo-cello-ka-1

I recently had the chance to try out the Randon Acoustic Guitar Pickup Piezo Contact Pickup for an assortment of musical instruments. The pickup's stick patch transducer was surprisingly easy to install, and it didn't take any extra holes in my instruments.

One of the most impressive aspects of the pickup was its ability to capture a clear, unobstructed sound from the instrument. It was like playing an entirely new instrument, with no external sounds or reflections interfering with the tone.

Despite its small size, the pickup was a breeze to take with me wherever I went, whether it was tucked into my guitar bag or placed in my pocket. Plus, with its promise of 365-day expiration and a 7-day unconditional return policy, I couldn't have asked for a more hassle-free experience.

That being said, the pickup might not be ideal for those who prefer a more traditional sound, as its clear tone could be seen as a bit sterile. Nonetheless, it's a great option for musicians who value convenience and versatility in their gear.

mojotone-quiet-coil-nc-passive-acoustic-guitar-soundhole-pickup-1

The Mojotone Quiet Coil NC Passive acoustic guitar soundhole pickup is a game-changer in the world of acoustic guitars. Unlike any other pickup I've used, it somehow manages to capture the raw, unfiltered essence of my instrument in the most natural and unaltered way possible. The fact that it's humbucking makes a noticeable difference in the quality of the sound, and the switch from a magnetic pickup to a passive one was surprisingly seamless.

One of the standout features for me was the 10-foot Mogami cable included in the package. Not only did it provide a studio-quality sound, but it also felt durably built and added an upscale touch to the overall setup. Additionally, the Switchcraft USA 1/4'' plug was a fantastic finishing touch, making the entire process of plugging in and playing a breeze.

However, I did encounter a minor inconvenience: the minimum soundhole diameter of 83.8mm or 3.30'' might pose a challenge for some players with smaller-sized instruments. Nonetheless, the pickup's ease of installation and exceptional sound more than compensate for this small downside. I'd highly recommend the Mojotone Quiet Coil NC Passive acoustic guitar soundhole pickup to any acoustic guitar enthusiast looking for a plug-and-play solution that truly brings their instrument to life.

new-mini-acoustic-guitar-pickup-black-1

This sleek Mini Acoustic Guitar Pickup in a striking black finish is the perfect addition to any musical ensemble. With a height of 2.36 inches and dimensions of about 27mm, it enhances the guitar's sound and improves performance.

While the installation process might require some effort, its ability to amplify your guitar's tone makes it well worth it. However, some users have reported issues with the pickup's longevity as it could malfunction over time. Nonetheless, this mini pickup shines in the spotlight for its seamless integration and sound-boosting features, despite its minor setbacks.

ammoon-acoustic-guitar-sound-hole-pickup-dual-pickup-modes-piezo-mic-supports-tone-adjusting-phase-f-1

I recently gave the Ammoon Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup a try and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. Its dual pickup modes, featuring a pickup stick and a microphone, provided an impressive range of sound options for my 36-42 inch folk guitar. The microphone's tone could be easily adjusted to suit my preferences, which was a game-changer during performances.

The product's easy installation process was a major plus, as it didn't require any cutting or drilling into my guitar. Just hitching the pickup to the rim of the sound hole and I was up and running in no time. The exquisite metal and shell design not only looked great, but also added a touch of elegance to my instrument.

However, there were a couple of cons I stumbled upon. The product didn't come with the required 2 CR2032 batteries, which was a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the pickup stick was a bit delicate, requiring extra care during handling.

Overall, the Ammoon Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup proved to be an impressive addition to my guitar setup, with its versatile sound options and straightforward installation process. Despite a couple of minor drawbacks, I have no hesitations in recommending it to fellow guitar enthusiasts.

double-a1g-acoustic-guitar-piezo-pickup-system-1

Take your acoustic guitar game to the next level with Double's A1G guitar pickup system. The flexible undersaddle piezo pickup is designed to fit any bridge, including curvy ones, offering better string balance and tone.

The 100% shielding ensures noise-free performance, while the easy-to-install sound hole design provides quick access to essential controls. The long-lasting CR-2032 battery is conveniently housed in a quick-access compartment with a battery LED indicator to keep you updated on its status.

Double's has a history of consulting for some of the most popular pickup brands and manufacturing for various guitar brands worldwide, making their proprietary designs accessible at affordable OEM prices. Experience superior quality and versatility with the A1G pickup system.

Buyer's Guide

Acoustic guitars, with their warm, resonant sound, are a staple in many music genres. However, playing them live or recording them can be challenging due to the low volume and difficulty in capturing the instrument's true sound. This is where an acoustic guitar pickup comes into play. It amplifies the guitar's sound and makes it easier for players to perform and record their music. In this buyer's guide, we will explore the key features, considerations, and advice on selecting the right acoustic guitar pickup to suit your needs.

Types of Acoustic Guitar Pickups

There are various types of pickups available for acoustic guitars, including internal and external pickups. Internal pickups, such as soundhole pickups and undersaddle pickups, are installed inside the guitar body. External pickups, like microphones and contact pickups, are placed near or on the guitar's soundhole, bridge, or fretboard.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Guitar Pickup

When selecting an acoustic guitar pickup, consider the following factors to ensure you get the best pickup for your guitar and playing style:

  1. Guitar Type - The type of acoustic guitar you have, such as dreadnought, jumbo, or classical, will determine the suitable pickup system. 2. Playing Style - If you primarily play live or record, you may require a different pickup compared to someone who solely practices at home. 3. Tone Quality - Each pickup has its unique sound character. Consider the tone you want to achieve and choose a pickup that complements your playing style and guitar.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing an acoustic guitar pickup might require some technical skills, particularly for internal pickups. It's advisable to consult a professional or follow the manufacturer's installation guide to avoid damaging your instrument. Regular maintenance of the pickup is essential for optimal performance. Cleaning the pickup periodically and checking for any loose connections or issues can ensure it continues to provide a high-quality sound.

Advice for First-Time Acoustic Guitar Pickup Users

If you're a first-time acoustic guitar pickup user, here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Practice with the pickup - Familiarize yourself with the sound and feel of the pickup while playing. 2. Adjust the volume and tone settings - Experiment with various volume and tone settings to find the best balance for your playing style.

FAQ

What is the function of an acoustic guitar pickup?

An acoustic guitar pickup is a device that enhances the guitar's audio output by converting the vibrations from the instrument into electrical signals for amplification purposes. These signals can either be played live or recorded for later usage, providing a clear and powerful sound for the audience or record producers.

Acoustic guitar pickups come in different types: under-saddle, soundhole, and piezo pickups. These pickups have varying installation methods and functionalities, with some requiring internal installation while others can be attached externally. Many of these pickups also allow for adjustable sensitivity, enabling players to tailor the sound quality to their preferences.

What advantages do acoustic guitar pickups offer?

Using an acoustic guitar pickup has several benefits, including amplifying the instrument's sound in situations where an unplugged performance is unfeasible or undesirable. This makes them an ideal choice for live performances, rehearsals, or recording sessions. Furthermore, pickups can enhance the overall tone and clarity, particularly in live situations where external factors like room acoustics and background noise can negatively impact the sound quality.

Additionally, pickups offer greater control over the sound, enabling players to adjust the balance between bass, mid, and treble frequencies for various musical styles or applications. This customization ensures that the acoustic guitar produces the appropriate tone and timbre for the desired performance.

What types of acoustic guitar pickups are currently available?

Acoustic guitar pickups come in various types, such as under-saddle, soundhole, and piezo pickups. Under-saddle pickups are the most common, installed underneath the guitar's saddle, and they detect vibrations from the strings to produce electrical signals. These pickups can produce a rich and full-bodied sound but may require additional installation for optimal results.

Soundhole pickups, placed in the soundhole, capture the vibrations from the top of the guitar, providing a more natural and resonant sound. However, these pickups can be susceptible to feedback problems during live performances. Piezo pickups, designed to detect vibrations directly from the guitar's bridge or soundboard, offer a more direct and balanced sound. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of guitar types and playing styles.

Is it possible to install an acoustic guitar pickup without professional assistance?

Installing an acoustic guitar pickup requires precision and expertise, especially since the guitar's internal workings can be delicate. It is generally advised to have a professional technician or luthier handle the installation to ensure a proper and safe fit. However, some manufacturers provide easy-to-follow instructions or DIY installation kits, which could be a suitable option for inexperienced individuals.

If you choose to install the pickup yourself, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and exercise caution throughout the process. Incorrect installation could lead to reduced sound quality, feedback issues, or even damage to the guitar.

How do I choose the ideal acoustic guitar pickup for my instrument?

Selecting the perfect acoustic guitar pickup depends on several factors, including the type of guitar, playing style, and desired sound. Different pickups cater to specific guitar models or playing styles, so prior research is crucial.

It is also imperative to consider the pickup's sensitivity, as this significantly influences the overall sound quality. Lower sensitivity pickups produce a warmer and more natural tone, while higher sensitivity pickups provide a more powerful and articulate sound. Many pickups even offer adjustable sensitivity settings, enabling players to fine-tune the sound to their preferences.

How do I maintain my acoustic guitar pickup to ensure optimal performance?

Maintaining an acoustic guitar pickup involves regular cleaning and proper handling and storage when not in use. Pickups are generally low-maintenance, but following the manufacturer's care instructions is essential for longevity and optimal performance. Cleaning the pickup with a soft, dry cloth helps prevent dirt or debris accumulation. However, water or other cleaning solutions should be avoided, as they can harm internal components.

In case of performance problems or functional issues, consulting a professional technician or luthier is advisable. They can diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate solutions to restore the pickup's performance.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualified purchases at no cost to you.

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