10 Best Banjo Pickups 2025 in the United States

The Fishman Blackstack Passive Soundhole Pickup is a double-stacked passive humbucker, which provides a warm and full sound, making it a great choice for amplifying acoustic banjos. The passive nature means it doesn't require a battery, simplifying installation and use. One of its standout features is the integrated TA4 mini-XLR connector, ensuring a secure and reliable connection during live performances.

Made in the USA, this pickup promises quality construction and durability. The unique packaging adds a touch of novelty, making it an appealing gift option for musicians. On the downside, being a soundhole pickup, installation might be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with guitar or banjo setups. Additionally, passive pickups might not provide the same level of output as active ones, which could be a concern in louder performance environments.

Its compatibility is primarily geared towards acoustic guitars, so banjo players should check for fit and sound quality on their specific instruments. Despite these considerations, the Fishman Blackstack offers good feedback resistance, making it reliable in live settings. If you're looking for a durable, easy-to-use pickup for live amplification of your banjo, this model is worth considering.

The KNA BP-1, 5-String Portable Piezo Banjo Pickup is designed to capture the natural sound of your banjo without needing you to modify your instrument. This is a great strength for banjo players who wish to maintain their instrument's original condition. The pickup’s wooden sensor casing is lightweight and unobtrusive, which means it won’t add any significant weight or bulk to your banjo.

Its installation method is quite user-friendly, as it can be easily attached and detached, or even left installed when not in use, providing convenience for players who gig regularly or practice frequently. Additionally, it accepts a standard 1/4'' jack, making it compatible with most amplifiers and sound systems. Handcrafted in Europe, this pickup promises quality and durability. However, being a piezo pickup, it might be more susceptible to feedback compared to other types, which might be a drawback for some users.

The sound quality is reported to be natural, but this can sometimes mean it picks up and amplifies any inconsistencies in playing technique. Musicians looking for a hassle-free, high-quality, and portable pickup option for their 5-string banjo may find the KNA BP-1 to be a strong contender.

The Myers Pickups The Feather Banjo Pickup is an appealing choice for banjo players looking to amplify their sound without compromising the instrument's natural tone. One of its standout features is its lightweight design, making it easy to install and reposition without requiring permanent modifications to your instrument. The internal active preamp ensures rich sound quality, which is enhanced by its compatibility with various wireless systems, providing flexibility for live performances.

Installation is a breeze with all necessary mounting hardware included, allowing users to simply plug and play right out of the box. The pickup is designed to work with multiple instruments, not just banjos, expanding its usability for musicians who play different acoustic instruments.

While the pickup's efficiency is commendable, the need for batteries (two Lithium Metal batteries) can be seen as a drawback, especially for those who prefer a hassle-free setup. Additionally, while the feedback resistance is decent, some users in louder settings may still experience challenges with feedback, depending on their environment.