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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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
1411 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
1411 reviews

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)

Rating
10.0
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
209 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
10.0
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
209 reviews

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

Fishman Matrix Infinity Mic Blend Acoustic Pickup - Narrow Saddle

Rating
9.9
Type of Pickup
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
42 reviews

Type of Pickup
Delivers the best combination of microphone and piezo saddle pickup sound, producing a rich and natural tone.
Installation Method
Installation is straightforward with clear steps, especially if you prepare the saddle and wiring carefully.
Sound Quality
Sound quality rivals or surpasses competing systems, with microphone placement inside the guitar giving it a notable edge.
Feedback Resistance
The system offers excellent feedback resistance, making it reliable for live performances without unwanted noise.
Ease of Use
Controls for tone, volume, and mic blend are conveniently located at the soundhole for easy on-the-fly adjustments.

The Fishman Matrix Infinity Mic Blend is a narrow saddle acoustic guitar pickup designed to deliver a natural and rich sound by combining a saddle pickup with a built-in condenser microphone. This dual-source design helps capture your guitar's authentic tone, making it a strong choice if you want a clear and detailed amplified sound. Installation is straightforward since it fits into the saddle slot and features soundhole-mounted controls, allowing you to adjust your tone easily while playing. The pickup is battery-powered and connects via a common 1/4 inch jack, which works well with most amplifiers and sound systems. One of its standout features is good feedback resistance, meaning it handles loud volumes without unwanted noise, which is especially helpful for live performances.

On the downside, since it uses a battery, you'll need to remember to replace or recharge it to avoid interruptions. Also, while setup is generally user-friendly, some players might find the microphone blending controls a bit tricky at first. The pickup is made of durable materials and weighs very little, so it won’t affect your guitar’s feel much. This product is best suited for acoustic players seeking an upgrade in amplified sound quality with moderate ease of installation and use. If you prioritize capturing your guitar’s natural acoustic nuances with less feedback during gigs, this pickup is worth considering.

Rating
9.9
Type of Pickup
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
42 reviews

Type of Pickup
Delivers the best combination of microphone and piezo saddle pickup sound, producing a rich and natural tone.
Installation Method
Installation is straightforward with clear steps, especially if you prepare the saddle and wiring carefully.
Sound Quality
Sound quality rivals or surpasses competing systems, with microphone placement inside the guitar giving it a notable edge.
Feedback Resistance
The system offers excellent feedback resistance, making it reliable for live performances without unwanted noise.
Ease of Use
Controls for tone, volume, and mic blend are conveniently located at the soundhole for easy on-the-fly adjustments.

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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