8 Best Guitar Pickups

Are you in the market for an acoustic guitar pickup? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will be exploring and comparing several popular options to help you find the perfect pickup for your acoustic guitar.

Acoustic guitar pickups have come a long way in recent years, providing guitarists with the ability to amplify their acoustic sound while maintaining its natural tone. These pickups are designed to be easily installed on the guitar and offer various features and functionalities, such as equalizers, tuners, and volume controls.

Owning an acoustic guitar pickup can bring numerous benefits to your playing experience. Firstly, it allows you to amplify your acoustic guitar, making it suitable for live performances or recording sessions. Additionally, a pickup can enhance the sound of your guitar, providing a more balanced tone and better projection. It also allows you to experiment with various effects and settings, giving you more versatility in your playing style.

In this article, we will be taking a closer look at a variety of acoustic guitar pickups available on the market. From the Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup to the Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Acoustic Soundhole Pickup, we will explore their features, sound qualities, and ease of use. So, whether you’re a professional musician or a casual player, stay tuned for detailed reviews on each of these fantastic options.

Kmise Acoustic Guitar Preamp with 5-Band EQ, Piezo Pickup, Tuner, Amplifier, LCD Mic – 1 Set

The Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set is primarily used to enhance the sound quality of acoustic guitars during live performances and recordings. It is designed to pick up the acoustic vibrations of the guitar and amplify them, allowing for a richer and more balanced tone.

We like the Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set because it offers a comprehensive range of controls that allow musicians to fine-tune their guitar’s sound according to their preferences. With volume, bass, middle, treble, and presence control knobs, this pickup provides versatility and flexibility in achieving the desired tone.

The purpose of the Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set is to enhance the sound quality of acoustic guitars. It achieves this by amplifying and equalizing the guitar’s natural acoustic vibrations. The key features of this product include its 5 band equalizer, LCD display for tuning, and built-in microphone.

In terms of quality, the Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set is a reliable and durable product. It is made from high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance. The controls are responsive and easy to use, allowing for quick adjustments during performances.

• Versatile 5 band equalizer allows for precise control over the guitar’s tone

• LCD display makes tuning quick and easy

• Built-in microphone provides the option for vocal accompaniment

• Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance

• 9V battery is not included, requiring an additional purchase

• Mounting screws may need to be adjusted for proper installation

The Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set is a reliable and versatile pickup that enhances the sound quality of acoustic guitars. Its comprehensive controls, LCD display, and built-in microphone make it a valuable tool for musicians seeking to achieve the desired tone during live performances and recordings. Despite the need for an additional 9V battery and potential adjustments during installation, the overall quality of the product ensures a satisfying experience.

LUVAY Acoustic Guitar Pickup with 10′ Cable (Gold)

The LUVAY Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer is designed to turn acoustic guitars into acoustic-electric guitars without the need for expensive modifications. It is a convenient and easy-to-install clip-on pickup that can be attached to the sound hole of the guitar and connected to an audio input with a standard 1/4″ connector.

We like the LUVAY Guitar Pickup because of its versatility and affordability. It provides a simple solution for musicians who want to amplify their acoustic guitar without the need for extensive modifications or purchasing a new instrument.

The main purpose of the LUVAY Guitar Pickup is to enhance the acoustic sound of the guitar and convert it into a more powerful electric sound when connected to an amplifier or PA system. It effectively captures the vibrations from the strings and converts them into electrical signals, allowing for a clearer and more pronounced sound.

The key features of this pickup include its compact size, measuring 5.3 x 1.1 x 0.4 inches, which makes it easy to install and use. The package also includes a 10-foot cable for flexibility in positioning the instrument while performing. Additionally, the pickup is made with a gold finish, giving it an aesthetic appeal.

The LUVAY Guitar Pickup is made with durable materials and is designed to withstand regular use. The clip-on mechanism securely attaches to the sound hole of the guitar, ensuring stability while playing. The pickup delivers a clean and clear sound, allowing the natural tones of the acoustic guitar to shine through.

Some pros of the LUVAY Guitar Pickup include its easy installation process, affordability, and the ability to convert an acoustic guitar into an acoustic-electric instrument. Additionally, its compact size and gold finish add to its overall appeal.

A potential drawback of the pickup is that it may not work as effectively with guitars that have non-standard sound holes or unconventional designs. It is important to ensure compatibility with the guitar before purchasing.

The LUVAY Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer is an excellent choice for amplifying the sound of an acoustic guitar. Its user-friendly design, affordability, and reliable performance make it a top contender among guitar pickups.

Acoustic Guitar Pickup Kit – Magnetic Transducer with Volume & Tone Controls, 12 Sound Hole Design

The 12 Sound Hole Guitar Pickup is designed to amplify the sound of acoustic guitars. It can easily be attached to the sound hole of most acoustic guitars, making it a convenient and practical accessory for musicians who want to enhance their sound.

• Easy installation and operation
• Tones and volume adjuster for customization
• Provided connector for convenience
• Cushion to prevent guitar damage

The primary purpose of the 12 Sound Hole Guitar Pickup is to amplify the sound of acoustic guitars. It comes with a 12-hole magnetic pickup that can be easily inserted into the sound hole of most acoustic guitars. This pickup works by capturing the vibrations of the guitar strings and converting them into electrical signals which can then be sent to an amplifier or speaker for amplification.

One of the key features of this pickup is its easy installation and operation. Users simply need to insert the pickup point to the left side of the sound hole and tighten the right side with a wrench. Additionally, the pickup is equipped with a tones and volume adjuster, allowing musicians to customize their sound according to their preferences.

To ensure convenience, the product comes with a connector that allows users to easily connect the pickup to the amplifier and speaker. This eliminates the need for additional cables or complex setup processes. Lastly, the pickup is designed with a cushion that prevents any potential damage to the guitar while it is being attached or removed.

The 12 Sound Hole Guitar Pickup offers reliable performance and high-quality sound amplification. Its sturdy construction ensures durability, while the cushion protects the guitar from scratches or marks. The adjustable tones and volume allow musicians to achieve their desired sound, making it a versatile option for acoustic guitar players.

Pros:

• Easy installation and operation
• Customizable tones and volume
• Provides connector for convenience
• Cushion prevents guitar damage

Cons:

• Limited compatibility with acoustic guitars without a sound hole or specific string setup

By considering the primary use, key features, and overall quality, the 12 Sound Hole Guitar Pickup emerges as a reliable and practical option for musicians seeking to enhance their acoustic guitar sound.

Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup with Volume and Tone Control

The Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup, DSS-6 Guitar Pickups Passive Mahogany Soundhole Pickup with Humbucker Volume Tone Control is designed to enhance the sound quality of acoustic guitars. It is primarily used for amplifying the sound produced by the guitar and reducing any unwanted noise.

We like the Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup, DSS-6 because it offers exceptional sound quality and ease of use. It effectively reduces noise and captures the original and clear sound of the guitar, making it a great option for both professional musicians and beginners.

The purpose of the Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup, DSS-6 is to provide acoustic guitar players with a reliable and efficient way to amplify their sound. Its key features include:

• Reducing Noise: The DSS-6 is a passive guitar pickup that uses a magnetic field to collect string vibrations and pass them to the speaker. This design ensures that the pickup is not affected by external noise, resulting in a reduction in unwanted noise.

• Original and Clear Sound: The pickup utilizes a customized rare earth neodymium magnet, which guarantees a sweet and clear sound. This feature allows guitarists to achieve the desired tone without any compromise.

• Volume & Tone Control: With the inclusion of volume and tone control knobs, users can easily adjust the sound to achieve the best string balance. This level of control allows for personalized sound preference and versatility.

• Solid Mahogany Housing: The pickup features a solid mahogany housing that effectively transmits acoustic vibrations, providing a balanced and clear tone. Additionally, the vintage mahogany appearance with natural patterns adds an aesthetic appeal that complements any acoustic guitar.

• Easy Installation: Installation of the DSS-6 is hassle-free as it does not require any drilling. It can be installed in the soundhole of the guitar and easily adjusted to ensure a firm installation.

The Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup, DSS-6 is known for its outstanding overall quality. It is built with durable materials and delivers reliable performance, making it a worthwhile investment for guitarists of all levels.

• Pros: Clear and original sound quality, noise reduction capabilities, easy installation process, volume and tone control for personalized sound preferences, solid mahogany housing for enhanced tonal balance.
• Cons: Limited compatibility with certain guitar models.

AMUMU SP30 Magnetic Pickup for Acoustic Guitars

The AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup is specifically designed for steel-string acoustic guitars. It is ideal for musicians who want to amplify their acoustic sound without compromising its natural tone and clarity.

One of the primary reasons we like the AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup is its high-quality construction. It is built with a customized rare earth neodymium magnet and a single coil with handwound oxygen-free copper. This ensures that the pickup captures every nuance of the guitar’s sound, producing a rich and authentic tone.

Additionally, this pickup features a solid beech wood housing, which enhances the transmission of acoustic vibrations. This results in superior string balance and pure clarity, allowing the guitar’s natural voice to shine through.

The purpose of the AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup is to provide an easy and effective way to amplify the sound of a steel-string acoustic guitar. It eliminates the need for cumbersome microphones or complicated installations, making it a convenient choice for both amateur and professional guitarists.

Key features of this pickup include its high impedance passive design, which eliminates the need for batteries. It also comes with a customized studio-grade lossless transmission audio cable, ensuring reliable and crystal-clear sound transfer. The pickup can be quickly installed and easily stored, without any drilling required, making it safe for the guitar’s finish.

The AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup is crafted with excellent build quality, ensuring its longevity and reliability. The use of high-quality materials, such as the rare earth neodymium magnet and handwound oxygen-free copper, further contributes to its overall durability and performance.

Some pros of the AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup include its exceptional sound quality, easy installation, and compatibility with a wide range of steel-string acoustic guitars. However, it should be noted that this pickup does not work with nylon guitar strings or 3/4-size guitars like Taylor Baby or Little Martin series.

The AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup is a top-notch choice for guitarists looking to amplify their steel-string acoustic sound. Its high-quality construction, easy installation, and impressive sound reproduction make it a standout option in the market.

TraderPlus SoundHole Guitar Pickup for Acoustic Electric Guitar – Magnetic Preamplifier with Tone and Volume Control, 10 ft Cable

The TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer is primarily used to amplify the sound of acoustic guitars. This magnetic pickup is designed to be easily installed on any acoustic guitar with a sound hole and steel strings.

We like the TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup because it offers a simple and effective solution for acoustic guitar players who want to amplify their sound. It is easy to install and provides a clean, high-quality sound with low feedback.

The purpose of the TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup is to enhance the volume and projection of acoustic guitars. It is equipped with a tone and volume control, allowing users to adjust the pickup to their desired sound. This pickup comes with a 10 ft cable, making it convenient for connecting to an amplifier or speaker.

Key features of this pickup include its 12 hole magnetic design, which ensures accurate pickup of the guitar’s sound. It is also equipped with a felt-backed clip to protect the guitar from scratches or damage during installation. The pickup is easy to install; users simply need to plug it into the sound hole, clip it onto the left side of the point, tighten the right side with the provided wrench, and connect the wire to an amplifier or speaker.

The overall quality of the TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup is commendable. It produces a clean and natural sound, allowing the true tone of the guitar to shine through. The magnetic design ensures accurate pickup, while the tone and volume control allows for customization of the sound. The pickup is durably built and includes a felt-backed clip for added protection.

Pros:

• Easy installation process
• Produces a clean and natural sound
• Provides tone and volume control
• Durable construction
• Comes with a 10 ft cable

Cons:

• Limited compatibility with acoustic guitars that do not have a sound hole or steel strings

The TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer is a reliable and user-friendly option for acoustic guitar players looking to amplify their sound. Its easy installation, clean sound, and adjustable controls make it a top choice among musicians.

Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Acoustic Pickup

The Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Acoustic Soundhole Pickup is primarily designed for standard steel string acoustic guitars. It is built to capture vibrant and clear tones, making it a perfect choice for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.

There are several reasons why the Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Pickup stands out among other acoustic guitar pickups. Firstly, its single coil design enhances the top-end brilliance and chime, resulting in a crisp and bright acoustic sound. This makes it ideal for musicians who want to add an extra sparkle to their playing.

Additionally, the SA-3SC pickup is incredibly easy to install. It can be instantly mounted into the soundhole of your guitar without the need for any modifications. This makes it a convenient choice for players who want a hassle-free installation process.

Furthermore, the pickup offers versatile performance. It comes with a 14ft low capacitance cable that allows you to connect it to various devices such as amplifiers, direct boxes, consoles, or PA systems. This versatility enables you to achieve studio-quality sound wherever you go.

The purpose of the Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Acoustic Soundhole Pickup is to provide guitarists with a reliable and high-quality solution for on-stage amplification. Its key features include the single coil design for enhanced top-end brilliance, easy installation without any modifications, and versatile performance through its 14ft low capacitance cable.

The SA-3SC Woody SC Pickup is hand-built in the USA at the Seymour Duncan factory in Santa Barbara, CA. This ensures a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The pickup is known for its reliable performance and durability, making it a long-lasting investment for any musician.

• Crisp, vibrant, and clear tones

• Enhanced top-end brilliance and chime

• Easy installation without modifications

• Versatile performance with the included 14ft low capacitance cable

• Hand-built in the USA for superior quality and durability

• Specifically designed for standard steel string acoustic guitars, may not be suitable for other types of guitars

• Soundhole pickup may not be preferred by players who prefer other types of pickups such as under-saddle pickups or microphones

Black Plastic Acoustic Guitar Pickup Preamp with Tuner

The “Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp Pickup Guitar Pickup Tuner Preamp Black” is primarily designed for acoustic guitar players who want to enhance the sound of their instrument. It is specifically designed to be used with acoustic guitars and can be easily installed without the need for soldering.

One of the reasons why we like this product is its easy access battery compartment. This allows users to conveniently change the battery without having to remove the entire pickup from the guitar. Additionally, its solder-free installation makes it user-friendly and suitable for guitarists of all skill levels.

The purpose of the Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp Pickup is to improve the sound quality of acoustic guitars. It features various controls including volume, bass, midrange, treble, brilliance control, notch filter, and a phase switch. These controls allow users to easily adjust the tone and sound of their guitar, giving them more control over their instrument’s sound.

The overall quality of the Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp Pickup is excellent. It is made of high-quality materials that are durable and can withstand regular use. The controls are responsive and easy to use, providing users with a seamless playing experience. The preamp is also designed to minimize noise and feedback, ensuring a clean and clear sound.

• Easy access battery compartment for convenient battery replacement.

• Solder-free installation makes it user-friendly for all skill levels.

• Multiple control options for adjusting and customizing the guitar’s sound.

• Excellent overall quality and durability.

• Minimizes noise and feedback for a clean sound.

• Some users may find the controls to be too sensitive and require careful adjustment.

• The preamp may not fit all acoustic guitar models, so compatibility should be checked before purchase.

The Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp Pickup is a highly recommended product for acoustic guitar players looking to enhance their instrument’s sound. Its easy installation, convenient battery compartment, and responsive controls make it a versatile and user-friendly option. With this preamp, guitarists can spend less time tweaking controls and more time playing.

Comparison of Specifications

Product Name	Pickup Size (cm)	Power Source	Controls	Suitable Guitars
Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp	9.8 x 5.8 x 4.0	6F22 9V battery	Volume, bass, middle, treble, pres control knobs	Any acoustic guitar
LUVAY Guitar Pickup	5.3 x 1.1 x 0.4″	None required	None	Any acoustic guitar
12 Sound Hole Guitar Pickup	N/A	None required	Tones and volume adjuster	Most acoustic guitars
Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup	N/A	None required	Volume control, tone control	Any acoustic guitar
AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Pickup	Fits 3.88″ to	None required	None	Steel-string acoustic
TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Pickup	N/A	None required	Tone and volume control	Any acoustic guitar
Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC	N/A	None required	None	Standard steel string
Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp	N/A	Battery	Volume, bass, midrange, treble, brilliance control, notch filter, phase switch	Any acoustic guitar

Conclusion

Overall, the review of the eight products showed a variety of options for acoustic guitar pickups. Here is a brief summary of the findings for each product:

1. Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set:

   • Offers a five-band EQ equalizer and tuner with an LCD display.
   • Provides good sound quality and versatility.
   • Suitable for players who want precise control over their sound.

2. LUVAY Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer for Acoustic Guitar, Cable Length 10′ (Gold):

   • Comes in an attractive gold color.
   • Provides a clear and balanced sound.
   • Suitable for musicians who prioritize aesthetics and reliable sound performance.

3. 12 Sound Hole Guitar Pickup, Magnetic Pickup Transducer with Volume Tone Tuner Kit for Acoustic Guitar:

   • Features a magnetic pickup transducer for a warm and natural tone.
   • Equipped with volume and tone controls for easy adjustment.
   • Recommended for players who prefer the magnetic pickup sound.

4. Donner Acoustic Guitar Pickup, DSS-6 Guitar Pickups Passive Mahogany Soundhole Pickup with Humbucker Volume Tone Control:

   • Passive pickup with a mahogany soundhole design.
   • Offers a warm and rich sound.
   • Ideal for those who appreciate a traditional and vintage tone.

5. AMUMU SP30 Woody Magnetic Soundhole Pickup for Steel String Acoustic Guitars Single Coil:

   • Single-coil magnetic pickup for steel string acoustic guitars.
   • Provides a bright and clear tone.
   • Suitable for performers who want a bright and lively sound.

6. TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer for Acoustic Guitar Magnetic Preamplifier with Tone and Volume Control, Cable Length 10 ft:

   • Equipped with a magnetic transducer and preamplifier.
   • Offers tone and volume control for customization.
   • Recommended for musicians who desire versatility and control over their sound.

7. Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Acoustic Soundhole Pickup – Magnetic Single Coil Pickup for Standard Steel String Acoustic Guitars – Maple:

   • Single-coil magnetic pickup made of maple.
   • Delivers a balanced and clear sound.
   • Ideal for players seeking a versatile and high-quality magnetic pickup.

8. Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp Pickup Guitar Pickup Tuner Preamp Black:

   • Preamp pickup with a tuner and EQ controls.
   • Made of plastic, which may affect durability.
   • Suitable for budget-conscious players who prioritize affordability over longevity.

Taking into account the drawbacks and recommendations, musicians who value precise control over their sound should consider the Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp EQ Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier LCD Mic 1 Set. However, for players who prefer a magnetic pickup sound, the TraderPlus 12 SoundHole Guitar Pickup Acoustic Electric Transducer or the Seymour Duncan SA-3SC Woody SC Acoustic Soundhole Pickup are excellent choices. Additionally, those seeking an affordable option may consider the Plastic 301 Acoustic Guitar Preamp Pickup. Ultimately, the best product will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the musician.