10 Best Banjo Pickups 2025 in the United States

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.

The EMG ACB-5 Active 5-String Banjo Pickup is a solid choice for professional banjo players who value authentic sound and noise-free performance. It uses a dual-coil Alnico magnet design, which is beneficial in recreating the natural tone of your banjo. A standout feature is the creation of acoustic 'chambers' thanks to the spaced-apart coils, contributing to superior sound quality uncommon in magnetic pickups. This pickup is highly regarded for its ability to remain true to the banjo's tone, making it ideal for both live performances and recording sessions.

Additionally, its pole pieces are designed to accommodate various string gauges, ensuring even string balance. The ACB-5 is compatible with 5-string banjos, but potential users should note that it's tailored more towards those seeking professional-grade equipment. Its dimensions (7 x 5 x 2 inches) and lightweight (1.6 ounces) make it a manageable option for musicians. This product is best suited for serious players looking for high-quality sound reproduction and a reliable, low-noise pickup.