10 Best Soundhole Pickups 2025 in the United States

The Fishman Blackstack Passive Soundhole Pickup is designed specifically for acoustic guitar players looking for a reliable way to amplify their instrument in live performance settings. One of its key strengths is the double-stacked passive humbucker design, which helps produce a warm, rich sound, minimizing unwanted noise. This is important for musicians who want their guitar's natural tone to shine through without interference.

The installation process is straightforward, making it user-friendly for those who may not be tech-savvy. Its TA4 mini-XLR connector is well-integrated, ensuring a secure connection to your amplifier. Made in the USA, it boasts quality craftsmanship, which is reassuring for buyers. The pickup's feedback resistance is noteworthy, allowing musicians to play at higher volumes without worrying about annoying feedback issues that can disrupt a performance.

It might not be the best choice for every player; being a passive pickup, it may lack the punchy output that some electric guitar players prefer. Additionally, compatibility is a concern, as this pickup is specifically tailored for acoustic guitars, so it won't suit electric guitar players. The price point is competitive, falling within a reasonable range for quality soundhole pickups, but budget-conscious musicians should weigh this against their needs.

The LR Baggs Anthem Acoustic Guitar Soundhole Pickup is designed to enhance the sound quality of acoustic guitars, making it a strong option for musicians who perform live. This product combines TRU-MIC technology with an Element pickup, delivering a studio-like sound that captures the warmth and fidelity of the instrument. Its innovative design also helps minimize feedback, which is an essential feature for performers wanting to avoid sound disturbances during shows.

One of the standout aspects of this pickup is its tonal flexibility. The lightweight preamp allows users to easily adjust volume, phase, and check the battery, along with a mix control feature for blending the two pickup types. This versatility can help musicians achieve a balanced, rich sound that suits various playing styles, from soft fingerpicking to more aggressive strumming.

This product is ideal for serious acoustic guitar players looking for high-quality sound and feedback resistance in live performances. However, those new to playing or on a budget might want to consider whether this advanced setup is necessary for their current level.

The Fishman Neo-D Humbucking Acoustic Pickup is a passive, magnetic soundhole pickup designed specifically for right-handed, 6-string acoustic guitars. Its low-profile, battery-free design makes installation simple and convenient, which is great if you want a quick way to amplify your acoustic guitar without modifying it extensively. The use of neodymium magnets helps provide clear, balanced sound with good string separation and bright acoustic clarity, making it a solid choice for players who want their natural tone to shine through when amplified.

Being a humbucking pickup, it naturally reduces unwanted noise and feedback, so you can play comfortably at higher volumes or in live settings. Compatibility-wise, it is best suited for guitars with spruce tops and maple fretboards, common in many acoustic setups. Since it’s a magnetic pickup, it works best with steel strings rather than nylon, despite some specifications mentioning nylon strings. The price is reasonable for the quality and features offered, making it an accessible option for players looking to upgrade their sound without spending too much.

If you’re after a pickup with active electronics or battery-powered preamps for more tonal shaping and volume control, this unit won’t meet those needs. Some players might find the sound a bit less warm compared to piezo pickups or more expensive models. For those wanting an easy-to-install, budget-friendly pickup that delivers clear, feedback-resistant acoustic sound, the Fishman Neo-D remains a practical choice.