How to choose a microphone or pickup for acoustic guitar: the complete guide

Do you play acoustic guitar and want to amplify it on stage or in the studio without losing the richness of its natural sound? Choosing the right microphone or pickup is a decisive step. The wrong choice can turn the warm tone of your instrument into something flat and metallic. In this guide, we help you make sense of the different technologies available and find the solution best suited to your instrument and the way you play.

Microphone, pickup or transducer: what’s the difference?

Before you choose, it is essential to understand the three main families of amplification systems for acoustic instruments.

The contact pickup (piezo transducer)

The piezo pickup is stuck directly onto the soundboard of your instrument. It picks up the vibrations of the wood and turns them into an electrical signal. It is the simplest solution to fit, often without any modification to the instrument. Ischell pickups, for example, deliver a faithful reproduction of the acoustic sound thanks to a high-precision contact pickup technology. The piezo is ideal for the stage because it resists feedback very well.

The magnetic pickup (soundhole pickup)

Fitted in the soundhole of the guitar, the magnetic pickup picks up the movement of the metal strings through a magnetic field, just like on an electric guitar. It produces a warmer sound, but one that is less “acoustic” than a piezo. Please note: it only works with steel or bronze strings, not with nylon strings.

The internal microphone (miniature microphone)

A small condenser microphone is placed inside the body of the guitar. It captures the atmosphere and natural resonance of the instrument very realistically. On the other hand, it is more sensitive to feedback and unwanted noise, which makes it better suited to the studio or to small, quiet venues.

How to choose for your instrument

The ideal type of microphone depends first and foremost on the instrument you play.

Acoustic guitar with steel strings

You are spoilt for choice: an under-saddle piezo, a contact pickup on the soundboard, a magnetic soundhole pickup or an internal microphone. For a natural, versatile sound, a quality contact pickup such as those in our range of microphones and pickups for instruments is often the best compromise between sound fidelity and practicality on stage.

Classical guitar with nylon strings

A magnetic pickup is ruled out (nylon strings are not ferromagnetic). That leaves the piezo pickup and the internal microphone. A contact piezo is generally the preferred solution: installation without drilling, a precise sound and excellent feedback rejection. Classical guitarists look above all for faithful tone, and that is precisely the strength of modern contact pickups.

Violin, cello, double bass and other instruments

For bowed string instruments, the contact pickup is king. It attaches to the top or the bridge without altering the instrument. Solutions such as the Ischell C3BHP violin and viola pickup or the Ischell C2BHP cello pickup give you natural amplification with no work needed from a luthier.

World instruments: kora, oud, sitar, ngoni

These traditional instruments need pickups that respect their unique sound. A universal pickup such as the Ischell C3BHP is designed to fit all surfaces, including skins and gourds.

With or without a preamp?

A preamp is not always essential, but it clearly improves the result. It lets you adjust the volume and the EQ (bass, mids, treble) and sometimes even tune your instrument thanks to a built-in tuner. If you play regularly in concert or in rehearsal, investing in a pickup + preamp system is strongly recommended.

For the best amplification, also consider choosing an amplifier designed specifically for acoustic guitar, which will respect the natural grain of your instrument, unlike an electric guitar amp.

Mistakes to avoid

Choosing a microphone or pickup for your acoustic instrument is a major investment. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.

The first mistake is choosing on price alone. A budget pickup will produce a thin, artificial sound that does not do justice to your instrument. The second common mistake is neglecting the quality of the cable: a poor-quality cable introduces unwanted noise and signal loss. Finally, remember to test your complete system (pickup + cable + preamp + amplifier) before going on stage.

Our selection at Acoustics Mics and Pickups

At Acoustics Mics and Pickups, we specialise in amplifying acoustic instruments. We offer a wide range of microphones and pickups for instruments, with personal advice for every musician. We are also the exclusive distributor of the Ischell brand, renowned for the exceptional quality of its contact pickups made in France.

Whether you are a folk guitarist, a classical violinist or a kora player, we have the amplification solution to suit your instrument and your budget. Do not hesitate to contact us for tailored advice.