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10 Best Acoustic Guitar Pickups 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

K&K Pure Mini Acoustic Guitar Pickup

The K&K Pure Mini Acoustic Guitar Pickup is a well-regarded choice for acoustic guitarists seeking a reliable and high-quality sound. This pickup features three piezo heads that are designed to capture the natural frequency response of an acoustic guitar. Users appreciate its sound quality, which is noted for being rich and true to the instrument's original tone.

One of the strengths of the Pure Mini is its ease of installation. It doesn't require extensive modifications to your guitar, making it ideal for players who want to avoid invasive setups. Feedback resistance is another highlight; the pickup minimizes unwanted noise during performances, allowing for a cleaner sound, which is crucial for live settings.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While many users love the sound quality, some have noted that it may not suit all guitar types equally well, particularly those with unique tonal qualities. It also requires careful placement of the piezo heads to achieve the best sound, which might be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with pickups. Additionally, while it’s relatively user-friendly, complete novices may still need to consult tutorials or seek help during installation.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Installation Method
Installation is straightforward if instructions are followed carefully, with a special alignment jig aiding in perfect placement.
Sound Quality
The K&K Pure Mini transforms the sound of smaller guitars, making them sound like full-sized, top-notch instruments.
#2

Wireless Acoustic Guitar Pickup Rechargable Magnetic And Microphone Soundhole Pickup For Acoustic Guitar Build-In Volume Control(Black)

The Wireless Acoustic Guitar Pickup offers a convenient and flexible solution for acoustic guitar players, especially those seeking wireless functionality. With a 100ft wireless transmission distance, it allows for significant mobility, which is ideal for performers on stage. The dual pickup system combines a magnetic pickup with a built-in microphone, enhancing the details of the guitar's timbre and supporting various picking techniques. This helps in achieving a rich and layered sound quality, crucial for dynamic performances.

Additionally, the pickup includes a mini preamp with controls for volume, EQ adjustments, and a phase switch to reduce feedback, which is a valuable feature for maintaining sound clarity in live settings. The rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 8 hours of wireless playtime and over 100 hours in wired mode, ensuring longevity for extended use without frequent recharging. Installation is relatively straightforward with the provided accessories, making it suitable for 80mm-120mm acoustic guitar soundholes. However, it’s important to note that this pickup is not compatible with ukuleles and classical guitars.

This product is a strong contender for acoustic guitarists who prioritize mobility and versatile sound options, though it may require a bit of patience during the setup process.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Installation Method
The preamp lasts easily 80 hours on a charge and is super easy to install.
Sound Quality
Sounds lightyears better, with more response, attack, and control compared to stock systems.
#3

L.R. Baggs HiFi Acoustic Guitar Pickup System

The L.R. Baggs HiFi Acoustic Guitar Pickup System is designed for guitarists looking for a high-quality pickup solution. One of its standout features is the all-discrete, high-fidelity endpin preamp, which enhances sound quality significantly. The preamp works alongside prewired bridge plate transducers, ensuring that the acoustic guitar's natural tone is preserved during amplification. Users will appreciate the soundhole-mounted volume and tone controls, which offer convenient adjustments without having to reach for external equipment.

Installation is made simple with a peel-and-stick method, and the included installation jig helps achieve optimal placement, making it beginner-friendly. Battery life is impressive, lasting over 700 hours on a single 9V battery, which minimizes the hassle of frequent replacements.

The L.R. Baggs HiFi pickup is fantastic for guitarists seeking a premium sound experience and ease of use. It best suits those who perform regularly or desire a high-quality amplification solution.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Installation Method
Installation is incredibly easy, making it a great choice even for beginners.
Sound Quality
The L.R. Baggs HiFi Acoustic Guitar Pickup System delivers a clear, crisp sound that significantly enhances the guitar's performance.

Buying Guide for the Best Acoustic Guitar Pickups

Choosing the right acoustic guitar pickup can significantly enhance your playing experience by amplifying your guitar's natural sound. The right pickup will depend on your playing style, the type of music you play, and the environments in which you perform. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Type of PickupThere are several types of acoustic guitar pickups, including piezo, magnetic, and microphone pickups. Piezo pickups are known for their ability to capture the natural sound of the guitar and are often used in undersaddle or soundboard configurations. Magnetic pickups, similar to those used in electric guitars, are mounted in the soundhole and provide a warm, rich tone. Microphone pickups capture the sound of the guitar's body and strings, offering a more natural and acoustic sound. Your choice should depend on the sound you prefer and the type of music you play. For a natural acoustic sound, a microphone or piezo pickup might be best, while a magnetic pickup could be ideal for a warmer, more electric-like tone.
Installation MethodPickups can be installed in various ways, including permanent installation, temporary installation, and external mounting. Permanent installations, such as undersaddle piezo pickups, require professional installation and are ideal for serious musicians who want a reliable setup. Temporary installations, like soundhole pickups, can be easily removed and are great for those who want flexibility. External mounting options, such as clip-on microphones, offer the least invasive installation and are perfect for players who do not want to modify their guitar. Consider how comfortable you are with modifying your guitar and whether you need a permanent or temporary solution.
Sound QualityThe sound quality of a pickup is crucial as it determines how accurately your guitar's natural tone is amplified. Piezo pickups tend to have a bright, clear sound but can sometimes be harsh. Magnetic pickups offer a warmer, more rounded tone but may not capture the full acoustic quality. Microphone pickups provide the most natural sound but can be prone to feedback. Think about the sound you want to achieve and the environments in which you will be playing. If you perform in loud settings, a piezo or magnetic pickup might be better to avoid feedback, while a microphone pickup is ideal for quieter, more controlled environments.
Feedback ResistanceFeedback resistance is important, especially if you play in loud environments or with a band. Piezo pickups are generally more resistant to feedback compared to microphone pickups, which can be more sensitive. Magnetic pickups also offer good feedback resistance. If you frequently perform live, especially in noisy venues, choosing a pickup with high feedback resistance will help ensure a clear, uninterrupted sound.
Ease of UseConsider how easy the pickup is to use, including installation, adjustment, and removal. Some pickups require professional installation, while others can be easily installed and removed by the player. Additionally, some pickups come with built-in preamps and controls for volume and tone, making them more convenient to use. If you prefer a hassle-free setup, look for pickups that are easy to install and adjust, and consider those with built-in controls for added convenience.

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