Buying Guide for the Best Soundhole Pickups
Choosing the right soundhole pickup for your acoustic guitar can significantly enhance your playing experience by providing better sound amplification and quality. Soundhole pickups are designed to fit into the soundhole of your guitar and convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, which can then be amplified. When selecting a soundhole pickup, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs and playing style.Type of PickupSoundhole pickups come in three main types: magnetic, piezo, and microphone. Magnetic pickups are similar to those used in electric guitars and are great for a warm, natural sound. Piezo pickups capture the vibration of the guitar's body and strings, offering a bright and clear tone. Microphone pickups capture the sound of the guitar as it resonates in the air, providing a very natural and acoustic sound. Your choice should depend on the type of sound you prefer and the style of music you play. For a more electric sound, go for magnetic; for a bright, clear tone, choose piezo; and for a natural acoustic sound, a microphone pickup is ideal.
InstallationThe ease of installation is an important factor to consider. Some soundhole pickups are designed for easy, tool-free installation, while others may require more permanent modifications to your guitar. If you prefer a non-invasive option, look for pickups that can be easily clipped or mounted into the soundhole without any drilling or alterations. For those who don't mind a more permanent setup, there are options that can be installed internally for a cleaner look. Consider how comfortable you are with making modifications to your guitar and choose accordingly.
Sound QualitySound quality is a critical aspect of any pickup. Different pickups will produce different tones, so it's important to consider what kind of sound you want. Magnetic pickups tend to produce a warmer, more electric sound, while piezo pickups offer a brighter, more articulate tone. Microphone pickups provide a very natural and true-to-life acoustic sound. Think about the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve. If you play a lot of fingerstyle or solo acoustic, a microphone pickup might be best. For strumming and more aggressive playing, a magnetic or piezo pickup could be more suitable.
Feedback ResistanceFeedback can be a major issue when amplifying an acoustic guitar, especially at high volumes. Some pickups are designed with better feedback resistance than others. Magnetic pickups generally have good feedback resistance, making them suitable for live performances. Piezo pickups can be more prone to feedback but offer a clear sound. Microphone pickups, while providing the most natural sound, are often the most susceptible to feedback. If you plan to play live or at high volumes, consider a pickup with good feedback resistance to avoid unwanted noise.
CompatibilityNot all soundhole pickups are compatible with every guitar. It's important to check the dimensions of your guitar's soundhole and ensure that the pickup you choose will fit properly. Some pickups are adjustable and can fit a range of soundhole sizes, while others are designed for specific dimensions. Measure your guitar's soundhole and compare it to the specifications of the pickup to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, consider whether the pickup is compatible with your amplifier or sound system.
PriceWhile budget is not the focus here, it's worth noting that soundhole pickups come in a range of prices, and more expensive models often offer better sound quality and additional features. Consider what features are most important to you and how much you're willing to invest in your sound. Sometimes, spending a bit more can make a significant difference in the quality and performance of the pickup.
