Acoustic guitars have a warm sound and are versatile.
They’re great for solo performances or playing with a band.
However, having the right pickup can make a big difference in how your sound carries and resonates.
Pickups capture the vibrations of the strings and translate them into an electrical signal.
This allows your acoustic guitar to be amplified through a sound system without losing that rich, natural tone.
Choosing a good pickup for live performances involves a few key factors.
You should consider the type of pickup, which can be magnetic, piezo, or mic-based.
Each type offers different sound qualities and response.
Think about installation, too, as some pickups are easier to add than others.
It’s also important to check compatibility with your guitar and amplification system.
An effective pickup will enhance your performance and ensure your music shines on stage.
With that in mind, let’s look at the top five acoustic guitar pickups that can help you sound your best when you perform live.
Top 5 Acoustic Guitar Pickups for Live Performances
If you’re ready to take your live performances to the next level, finding the right acoustic guitar pickup is key.
The right pickup can enhance your sound and feed your creativity.
Check out our top picks to help you choose the best option for your gigs!
Dean Markley Pro Mag XM
Consider the Dean Markley Pro Mag XM for its solid sound quality and easy installation if you need a reliable pickup for live shows.
- Smooth sound with reduced noise interference.
- Simple and quick installation, no drilling needed.
- Durable wood design that looks good.
- Some users may find the output weak.
- Might require additional support for secure mounting.
- Confusion over compatibility with certain guitars.
The Dean Markley Pro Mag XM is designed to suppress noise, thanks to its silent humbucking coil.
This means you can enjoy a clean and transparent sound, making it great for different styles of music.
It aims to cancel out any annoying hums, letting you focus on your performance.
Another benefit is the easy installation process.
The pickup can be attached in about a minute without damaging your guitar.
Just plug in the cable, and you’re good to go.
This feature makes it perfect for musicians who want to switch pickups quickly.
While this product has many strengths, some users mention that the sound output can be a bit weak.
You may need a preamp to get the best performance.
Also, ensure your guitar is compatible with this magnetic pickup, as that can influence your experience.
JUSTPRO Acoustic Guitar Pickup
This pickup offers a strong sound quality and easy installation, which could be great for your performances.
- Active amplification for fuller sound.
- Quick 5-minute charging for up to 10 hours of use.
- Adjustable dual coils for clearer sound.
- Requires unplugging to save battery, which can be a hassle.
- Only fits standard steel string acoustic guitars.
- Installation instructions might lack clarity.
You will find the JUSTPRO pickup delivers impressive sound.
It enhances your guitar’s natural tones while also reducing noise.
For live gigs or recordings, this could be a solid choice.
The setup is straightforward, fitting various acoustic guitar sound holes with no need for complex tools.
Just plug it in, and you’re ready to go.
The design also looks nice, adding style while you play.
Keep in mind that you need to unplug it to save battery life after each use.
This can be a little inconvenient, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Still, its quick charging feature ensures it’s ready for your next session in no time.
JOYO 5-Band EQ Pickup System
This pickup system offers great features for players looking to enhance their live performance sound.
- Includes a built-in tuner and equalizer for better sound control.
- LCD display makes tuning easy and quick.
- Compact design fits well on most guitars.
- Some users report issues with durability.
- Sound quality can vary with installation.
- Battery not included, which adds to the initial setup cost.
You’ll find the JOYO 5-Band EQ Pickup System has a solid design that fits most acoustic guitars nicely.
The five-band equalizer allows you to tweak your sound, making your guitar perfect for live settings.
The built-in tuner is an added bonus, making it easier for you to stay in tune while performing.
Many players appreciate the compact size.
It doesn’t take up much room, so it won’t interfere with your playing.
The LCD display is a nice touch as it helps you keep an eye on your tuning status at a glance.
While most experiences are positive, some users have experienced operational issues.
Installations can lead to varying sound quality, with some reporting buzzing or humming noises.
Be aware that the product does not come with a battery, so you’ll need to factor that into your purchase.
LIEKE Acoustic Guitar Pickup
This pickup offers solid features that can enhance your live performances.
- Easy to install with pre-wired setup
- Built-in tuner with an LCD display for quick adjustments
- Flexible EQ settings to shape your tone
- May require some adjustments to fit properly
- Quality of the microphone could be better
- Lacks detailed instructions for setup
This acoustic guitar pickup stands out because of its built-in 5-band equalizer.
You can really fine-tune your sound with it.
The equalizer gives you control over volume, presence, and more.
Plus, having a tuner right on the device makes it convenient during performances.
You won’t have to fuss around trying to find a separate tuner.
Installation is generally smooth, as it’s pre-wired.
You just have to fit it into your guitar.
Some users mentioned that adjustments were needed for a perfect fit.
The size isn’t huge, but can be larger than expected, so consider compatibility with your guitar model.
There’s a bit of a trade-off with quality, though.
While the pickup is good, some folks found the microphone lacking.
This is something to think about if you’re planning to use both sound sources.
It’s worth it to check if this pickup aligns with your needs for live shows.
Seymour Duncan Woody SC Pickup
If you’re looking for a reliable acoustic pickup that plugs in easily and sounds great, this could be a solid choice for you.
- Easy to install without modifying your guitar.
- Produces clear and warm tones suitable for various playing styles.
- Affordable compared to other acoustic amplification options.
- Some users report humming or noise issues.
- Volume may not be strong enough for louder settings.
- Might require a quality amp for best sound.
The Seymour Duncan Woody Series pickup is designed with singer-songwriters and folk musicians in mind.
It captures your acoustic guitar’s true voice while blending well with vocals and other instruments.
The installation is straightforward, making it a great option for those who want a quick setup for live performances.
You will appreciate how this pickup fits into most standard sound holes.
This means you won’t have to worry about whether it will work with your guitar.
It’s built for those jam sessions or gigs where you want to sound your best.
Keep in mind, while the Woody Series has many strengths, some users have mentioned challenges with background noise.
However, many still rave about its rich sound quality, making it a popular choice among musicians.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right acoustic guitar pickup for live performances can make a big difference.
Here’s what to consider as you shop around.
Types of Pickups
You’ll find different types of pickups.
Here are a few common ones:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Magnetic | Great for electric-like sounds. |
| Piezo | Good for capturing natural acoustic tone. |
| Microphone | Best for a full, rich sound, but may pick up noise. |
Compatibility
Make sure the pickup works with your guitar.
Some picks fit only certain models.
Check if you need to modify your guitar for installation.
Installation
Consider how easy the pickup is to install.
Some are simple and can be done at home.
Others might require a trip to the shop.
Sound Quality
Listen to demos if you can.
Each pickup has a unique sound.
Pickups should enhance your guitar’s natural tone without muddying it.
Additional Features
Look out for features like:
- Built-in EQ: You can adjust the tone easily during performances.
- Feedback control: This feature reduces unwanted sound.
- Wiring options: Consider how you’ll connect to an amp or PA system.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be closer to finding the right pickup for your needs.