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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
9.8
Chosen by1,387
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
1370 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
9.8
Chosen by1,387
Installation Method
Sound Quality

Most important from
1370 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

L.R. Baggs M80 Acoustic Guitar Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

Rating
9.6
Installation Method
Sound Quality
Feedback Resistance

Most important from
104 reviews

Installation Method
Installation may require some technical know-how, especially when drilling a hole for the RCA jack, but it is manageable with patience and basic woodworking skills.
Sound Quality
The M80 projects the sweet sound of my Blueridge with bell-like clarity, capturing delicate single-string runs without distortion.
Feedback Resistance
The M80 is equipped with a convenient volume control that prevents amp-destroying squawking and a battery-check feature with LEDs indicating remaining power.

The L.R. Baggs M80 Acoustic Guitar Magnetic Soundhole Pickup offers some solid features that can enhance your playing experience. It's designed for full-range body sensitivity, which means it captures the complete tonal range of your acoustic guitar, providing rich and dynamic sound quality. One of its standout features is the ability to switch between active and passive operation, making it versatile for different playing and amplification setups.

The feedback resistance is another strong point, reducing unwanted noise during live performances or recording sessions. The multi-segment battery check is a convenient addition, ensuring you’re always aware of your battery status, so you’re not caught off guard during a performance. Additionally, the adjustable pole pieces allow for fine-tuning to match your guitar’s specific string spacing and height, contributing to better sound clarity and balance.

On the downside, installation might require some technical know-how or professional help, which could be a drawback for those looking for a quick and easy setup. At 5.3 ounces, it’s relatively lightweight, which is good for maintaining the balance of your instrument. The L.R. Baggs M80 is a high-quality pickup suitable for professional musicians or serious hobbyists looking for excellent sound quality and reliable performance with some added convenience features.

Rating
9.6
Installation Method
Sound Quality
Feedback Resistance

Most important from
104 reviews

Installation Method
Installation may require some technical know-how, especially when drilling a hole for the RCA jack, but it is manageable with patience and basic woodworking skills.
Sound Quality
The M80 projects the sweet sound of my Blueridge with bell-like clarity, capturing delicate single-string runs without distortion.
Feedback Resistance
The M80 is equipped with a convenient volume control that prevents amp-destroying squawking and a battery-check feature with LEDs indicating remaining power.
#3

Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Acoustic Pickup (Narrow)

Rating
9.4
Installation Method
Sound Quality
Feedback Resistance

Most important from
192 reviews

Installation Method
Installation was very easy, even for someone just reasonably handy with tools.
Sound Quality
The tone of the Infinity Matrix is great, picking up finger tapping, slide work, and palm slaps effortlessly.
Feedback Resistance
The sound quality is excellent when plugged straight into a PA or a separate amplifier, with no feedback issues.
Ease of Use
Onboard adjustments provide a wide range of flexibility, making it adaptable to various playing styles.

The Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Acoustic Pickup is a solid choice for guitarists looking for reliable sound quality and ease of use. Its soundhole-mounted controls for volume and tone allow for quick adjustments while playing, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced players alike. This pickup features Fishman's renowned Acoustic Matrix undersaddle pickup, which is known for delivering a clear and transparent tone, ensuring your guitar's natural sound shines through.

One of the standout strengths of this product is its dynamic string response, which enhances performance by capturing the nuances of your playing style. Installation is designed to be straightforward, which is a plus for those who may not have extensive technical skills.

The Fishman Matrix Infinity VT Acoustic Pickup is a reliable option for guitarists seeking clarity and ease of use in their amplification. Its strengths lie in sound quality and user-friendliness, but potential buyers should consider its battery dependency and compatibility with their specific guitar.

Rating
9.4
Installation Method
Sound Quality
Feedback Resistance

Most important from
192 reviews

Installation Method
Installation was very easy, even for someone just reasonably handy with tools.
Sound Quality
The tone of the Infinity Matrix is great, picking up finger tapping, slide work, and palm slaps effortlessly.
Feedback Resistance
The sound quality is excellent when plugged straight into a PA or a separate amplifier, with no feedback issues.
Ease of Use
Onboard adjustments provide a wide range of flexibility, making it adaptable to various playing styles.

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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