10 Best Banjo Pickups 2025 in the United States

The Gold Tone GT-750 Banjitar Deluxe is a six-string banjo designed to combine banjo sound with guitar tuning (EADGBE), making it especially suitable for guitar players who want banjo tones without relearning fingerings. It features an SMP Plus humbucker pickup with volume control, which is excellent for reducing unwanted feedback and offers straightforward plug-and-play use for amplification. The pickup is built-in, so installation is simple with no extra modifications needed, making it user-friendly.

The instrument’s maple body and resonator provide a bright, clear tone with good projection, while the rosewood fingerboard adds comfortable playability. Its construction is solid, including a two-way adjustable truss rod, which helps maintain neck stability. While the pickup handles feedback well, this banjitar’s sound will differ from traditional 5-string banjos, so it might not fully satisfy purists who want that classic banjo twang.

The size and weight are a bit larger and heavier than some banjos, which could affect comfort during long playing sessions. This model suits players looking for a hybrid instrument with built-in pickup ease, good sound quality, and reliable performance in both unplugged and amplified settings.

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 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.