How To Make An Acoustic Guitar Pickup: A Comprehensive Guide?

Want to amplify your acoustic guitar? Making an acoustic guitar pickup is a rewarding project for any guitar player, and at guitarplayers.net, we offer all the resources you need to succeed. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to building your own pickup, enhancing your instrument’s sound and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned luthier or a DIY enthusiast, learn how to create a custom pickup that brings your acoustic guitar to life. Dive in to discover the secrets of acoustic guitar amplification.

1. Why Make Your Own Acoustic Guitar Pickup?

Making your own acoustic guitar pickup offers numerous benefits. It gives you control over the sound, saves money, and is a fun DIY project. Let’s dive into the advantages:

Customization: You can tailor the pickup to match your guitar’s unique sound and your personal preferences.
Cost-Effectiveness: Building your own pickup can be significantly cheaper than buying a high-end commercial model.
Learning Experience: It’s a great way to understand how pickups work and the electronics involved.
Unique Sound: You can achieve a distinctive sound that sets your guitar apart.
Satisfaction: There’s a great sense of accomplishment in playing an instrument enhanced with your own creation.

2. Understanding Acoustic Guitar Pickups

Acoustic guitar pickups come in various types, each with unique characteristics. Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the right design for your needs. The main types include:

Piezo Pickups: These are the most common type, using a piezoelectric crystal to convert vibrations into an electrical signal.
Magnetic Soundhole Pickups: Similar to those in electric guitars, these pickups detect string vibrations using magnetic fields.
Microphone Pickups: These use a small microphone placed inside the guitar to capture the acoustic sound.
Hybrid Systems: Some pickups combine multiple technologies, such as piezo and microphone, for a more versatile sound.

Piezo Pickups Explained

Piezo pickups are favored for their simplicity and affordability. They consist of a piezo crystal, which generates voltage when subjected to mechanical stress (in this case, vibrations from the guitar strings). The signal is then amplified and sent to an output jack. Piezo pickups are typically installed under the saddle or on the guitar’s soundboard.

Magnetic Soundhole Pickups Explained

Magnetic soundhole pickups are easy to install and offer a warm, electric guitar-like tone. They use magnets and coils to detect the vibrations of the steel strings. These pickups are often preferred by players who want a more traditional electric guitar sound from their acoustic.

Microphone Pickups Explained

Microphone pickups provide the most natural acoustic sound but can be prone to feedback. They use a small microphone to capture the sound inside the guitar’s body. These pickups are often used in combination with other types to create a more balanced and versatile sound.

3. Essential Tools and Materials

Before you start building your acoustic guitar pickup, gather the necessary tools and materials. This will ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here’s a comprehensive list:

Tools:

Soldering Iron: For connecting wires and electronic components.
Solder: To create solid electrical connections.
Wire Strippers: To remove insulation from wires without damaging them.
Multimeter: To test continuity and voltage.
Drill: For creating necessary holes in the guitar (if required).
Screwdrivers: Various sizes for different screws.
Pliers: For bending and shaping wires.
Hot Glue Gun: For securing components.

Materials:

Piezo Disc: The heart of the pickup, converting vibrations into an electrical signal.
Shielded Audio Cable: To carry the signal from the piezo disc to the output jack.
1/4″ Output Jack: To connect the guitar to an amplifier or PA system.
Resistors: To fine-tune the pickup’s output and tone (values will depend on your specific design).
Capacitors: To shape the frequency response (values will depend on your specific design).
Heat Shrink Tubing: To insulate and protect solder joints.
Double-Sided Tape or Adhesive: To mount the piezo disc.
Enclosure (Optional): A small box to house the electronics.

Sourcing Quality Components

Choosing high-quality components is essential for the performance and longevity of your pickup. Research reputable suppliers and read reviews to ensure you are getting reliable parts. According to research from the Berklee College of Music, in July 2025, using high-quality shielded audio cables significantly reduces noise and interference in the pickup signal.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Piezo Pickup

Follow these steps to build your own piezo acoustic guitar pickup. This method is straightforward and suitable for beginners.

Step 1: Prepare the Piezo Disc

Solder one end of the shielded audio cable to the piezo disc’s positive (+) terminal.
Solder the other end of the shielded audio cable to the piezo disc’s negative (-) terminal.
Use heat shrink tubing to insulate the solder joints, preventing shorts and ensuring durability.

Step 2: Assemble the Circuit

Connect a resistor (e.g., 1MΩ) in series with the signal wire (the center conductor of the shielded cable).
Solder a capacitor (e.g., 0.047µF) in parallel with the output to roll off some of the high frequencies, providing a warmer tone.
Use heat shrink tubing to insulate all solder joints.

Step 3: Wire the Output Jack

Solder the signal wire from the piezo disc and circuit to the tip (signal) terminal of the 1/4″ output jack.
Solder the ground wire from the shielded cable to the sleeve (ground) terminal of the output jack.

Step 4: Mount the Piezo Disc

Clean the area under the guitar’s saddle where you will mount the piezo disc.
Apply a small amount of double-sided tape or adhesive to the back of the piezo disc.
Carefully position the piezo disc under the saddle, ensuring it makes good contact with the saddle and the guitar’s bridge.

Step 5: Secure the Wiring

Use adhesive clips or tape to secure the shielded cable inside the guitar, preventing it from rattling or interfering with the guitar’s vibrations.
Ensure the output jack is securely mounted to the guitar’s body.

Step 6: Test the Pickup

Plug the guitar into an amplifier or PA system.
Strum the strings and listen for the amplified sound.
Adjust the volume and tone controls on your amplifier to optimize the sound.
Check for any buzzing or unwanted noise, and troubleshoot as necessary.

5. Optimizing Your Piezo Pickup for the Best Sound

Achieving the best sound from your piezo pickup involves fine-tuning various aspects of its design and installation. Here are some tips to help you optimize your piezo pickup for superior performance:

Experiment with Resistor Values: Try different resistor values to adjust the output level and tone of the pickup. Higher resistance values will generally result in a lower output and a warmer tone, while lower values will increase the output and brightness.
Adjust Capacitor Values: Experiment with different capacitor values to shape the frequency response of the pickup. Smaller capacitor values will allow more high frequencies to pass through, resulting in a brighter sound, while larger values will roll off more high frequencies, providing a warmer tone.
Proper Mounting: Ensure the piezo disc is making solid contact with the saddle and the guitar’s bridge. Uneven contact can result in an unbalanced or weak signal. According to Guitar Player Magazine, proper mounting is crucial for capturing the full range of the guitar’s vibrations.
Shielding: Use shielded audio cable to minimize noise and interference. Ensure the shielding is properly grounded to the output jack.
External Preamplifier: Consider using an external preamplifier to boost the signal from the piezo pickup. A preamp can provide additional gain and tone-shaping options, allowing you to fine-tune your sound.

6. Building a Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

For a different approach, consider building a magnetic soundhole pickup. This type of pickup offers a warmer, more electric guitar-like tone.

Step 1: Gather the Materials

Magnetic Wire (e.g., 42 AWG): For winding the coil.
Magnets: Alnico or ceramic magnets to create the magnetic field.
Bobbin: A plastic or wooden form to wind the coil around.
Shielded Audio Cable: To carry the signal to the output jack.
1/4″ Output Jack: To connect the guitar to an amplifier.
Epoxy: To secure the components.

Step 2: Wind the Coil

Wrap the magnetic wire tightly and evenly around the bobbin, creating a coil. Aim for several thousand turns to generate a strong signal.
Leave enough lead wire at both ends for connections.

Step 3: Assemble the Pickup

Position the magnets underneath the coil, ensuring they are properly aligned to create a consistent magnetic field.
Secure the magnets and coil to the bobbin using epoxy.

Step 4: Wire the Output Jack

Solder one end of the coil wire to the tip (signal) terminal of the 1/4″ output jack.
Solder the other end of the coil wire to the sleeve (ground) terminal of the output jack.
Use shielded audio cable to connect the pickup to the output jack, minimizing noise.

Step 5: Install the Pickup

Carefully insert the pickup into the guitar’s soundhole, ensuring it is securely positioned.
Use foam padding or rubber shims to prevent the pickup from scratching the guitar’s finish.
Plug the guitar into an amplifier and test the pickup.

7. Microphone Pickup: Capturing Natural Acoustic Sound

Creating a microphone pickup involves installing a small microphone inside the guitar to capture its natural acoustic sound. This method can provide a very realistic tone but can also be more prone to feedback.

Step 1: Select a Microphone

Choose a small, high-quality microphone designed for instrument amplification. Condenser microphones are often preferred for their sensitivity and accurate sound reproduction.
Ensure the microphone has a suitable frequency response for capturing the nuances of an acoustic guitar.

Step 2: Mount the Microphone

Secure the microphone inside the guitar’s body using adhesive clips or foam padding.
Position the microphone strategically to capture the best possible sound. Experiment with different locations to find the sweet spot.
Avoid placing the microphone too close to the soundhole, as this can increase the risk of feedback.

Step 3: Wire the Output Jack

Connect the microphone to a preamplifier to boost its signal.
Wire the output of the preamplifier to a 1/4″ output jack.
Use shielded audio cable to minimize noise and interference.

Step 4: Test and Adjust

Plug the guitar into an amplifier or PA system and test the microphone pickup.
Adjust the microphone’s position and the preamplifier’s gain to optimize the sound.
Use a feedback suppressor or equalizer to control any unwanted feedback.

8. Hybrid Pickup Systems: Combining Technologies

Hybrid pickup systems combine multiple technologies, such as piezo and microphone, to create a more versatile and balanced sound. This approach allows you to capture the best qualities of each type of pickup.

Designing a Hybrid System

Combine a piezo pickup for its clarity and attack with a microphone pickup for its natural acoustic sound.
Use a blending circuit to adjust the balance between the two pickups.
Consider adding an onboard preamplifier with EQ controls for further tone shaping.

Wiring a Hybrid System

Install both the piezo pickup and the microphone pickup in the guitar.
Connect each pickup to the blending circuit.
Wire the output of the blending circuit to the 1/4″ output jack.
Use shielded audio cable to minimize noise and interference.

Optimizing a Hybrid System

Experiment with different blending ratios to find the perfect balance between the piezo and microphone pickups.
Use EQ controls to fine-tune the frequency response of each pickup.
Consider using a dual-channel preamplifier to independently adjust the gain and tone of each pickup.

9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Building your own acoustic guitar pickup can sometimes present challenges. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

Weak Signal:
- Check the connections to the piezo disc or coil.
- Ensure the piezo disc is making solid contact with the saddle.
- Verify the output jack is properly wired.
- Use a multimeter to test continuity and voltage.
Buzzing or Hum:
- Ensure all solder joints are clean and secure.
- Use shielded audio cable to minimize noise.
- Check the grounding connections.
- Try a different amplifier or cable to rule out external issues.
Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the input gain on your amplifier.
- Check for loose connections or damaged components.
- Experiment with different resistor and capacitor values to shape the tone.
Feedback:
- Position the guitar away from the amplifier.
- Use a feedback suppressor or equalizer.
- Adjust the microphone position (if using a microphone pickup).
- Try a different microphone with better feedback rejection.

10. Advanced Techniques and Modifications

Once you’ve mastered the basics of building acoustic guitar pickups, you can explore more advanced techniques and modifications to further customize your sound.

Customizing the Frequency Response

Experiment with different capacitor values to shape the frequency response of the pickup. Smaller values will result in a brighter sound, while larger values will provide a warmer tone.
Consider using a multi-band EQ to fine-tune specific frequencies.
Research different capacitor types, such as film capacitors, for their unique tonal characteristics.

Adding Tone Controls

Install a potentiometer (variable resistor) to control the tone of the pickup.
Wire the potentiometer in series with a capacitor to create a simple tone control circuit.
Experiment with different potentiometer and capacitor values to achieve the desired tonal range.

Using Different Magnet Types

Experiment with different magnet types, such as Alnico 2, Alnico 5, and ceramic magnets, to alter the tone of a magnetic soundhole pickup.
Alnico magnets generally produce a warmer, more vintage-style tone, while ceramic magnets offer a brighter, more modern sound.

Creating a Split Coil Pickup

Design a magnetic soundhole pickup with two separate coils.
Wire the coils in series for a higher output and a fuller tone, or in parallel for a lower output and a brighter tone.
Add a switch to select between series and parallel wiring options.

11. Maintaining Your Acoustic Guitar Pickup

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your acoustic guitar pickup. Here are some tips to keep your pickup in top condition:

Regular Cleaning:
- Wipe the pickup and surrounding areas with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the pickup’s components.
Check Connections:
- Periodically inspect the wiring and solder joints for any signs of damage or corrosion.
- Tighten any loose connections to prevent signal loss or noise.
Protect from Moisture:
- Avoid exposing the pickup to excessive moisture or humidity, as this can cause corrosion and damage.
- Store the guitar in a case when not in use to protect it from environmental factors.
Professional Servicing:
- If you encounter any issues that you cannot resolve yourself, consider taking the guitar to a qualified technician for professional servicing.
- Regular servicing can help identify and address potential problems before they become major issues.

12. Acoustic Guitar Pickup Options on guitarplayers.net

At guitarplayers.net, we understand the importance of having reliable and high-quality pickups for your acoustic guitar. We offer a wide range of resources to help you find the perfect pickup solution, whether you’re building your own or looking for a pre-made option.

Extensive Guides and Tutorials:
- Our website features detailed guides and tutorials on building various types of acoustic guitar pickups, including piezo, magnetic soundhole, and microphone pickups.
- These resources provide step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and videos to help you through the process.
Product Reviews and Comparisons:
- We offer comprehensive reviews and comparisons of pre-made acoustic guitar pickups from top brands.
- Our reviews cover a wide range of factors, including sound quality, ease of installation, and value for money.
Community Forum:
- Join our community forum to connect with other guitar players and pickup enthusiasts.
- Share your experiences, ask questions, and get advice from experienced builders and players.
Recommended Products:

Product	Description	Price
LR Baggs Anthem	A popular hybrid pickup system that combines a microphone and piezo element for a natural and balanced sound.	$299.00
Fishman Rare Earth Blend	A magnetic soundhole pickup with a built-in microphone for added warmth and depth.	$249.00
K&K Pure Mini	A highly regarded piezo pickup known for its natural and transparent sound.	$149.00
Seymour Duncan Woody HC	A versatile magnetic soundhole pickup that delivers a warm and electric guitar-like tone.	$89.00
Schatten Design RG-03	A simple and affordable piezo pickup that is easy to install and provides a decent amplified sound.	$39.00

13. Inspiring Guitarists Who Use Acoustic Pickups

Many renowned guitarists rely on acoustic pickups to amplify their instruments and deliver exceptional performances. Here are a few examples of inspiring guitarists who use acoustic pickups:

Tommy Emmanuel: Known for his incredible fingerstyle technique, Tommy Emmanuel uses a Maton acoustic guitar equipped with a custom AP5 Pro pickup system. This system combines a microphone and piezo element to capture the nuances of his playing.
John Butler: The John Butler Trio’s frontman uses a Maton 12-string guitar with a similar AP5 Pro pickup system. The amplified sound is a crucial part of his band’s signature sound.
Rodrigo y Gabriela: This Mexican acoustic guitar duo uses Fishman Rare Earth Blend pickups in their guitars. The blend of magnetic and microphone elements captures the percussive and melodic aspects of their music.
Ben Howard: Ben Howard often uses a Lowden acoustic guitar with a Sunrise S-2 magnetic soundhole pickup. The pickup provides a warm and intimate sound that complements his introspective songwriting.
захранване De Lucia: The legendary flamenco guitarist used a custom-built pickup system in his Conde Hermanos guitar. While the specifics of his pickup system are not widely known, it was essential for amplifying his intricate and passionate playing.

14. Latest Innovations in Acoustic Pickup Technology

Acoustic pickup technology is constantly evolving, with new innovations emerging regularly. Here are some of the latest trends and advancements in the field:

Wireless Pickups: Wireless acoustic guitar pickups offer greater freedom of movement on stage. These systems transmit the guitar’s signal wirelessly to an amplifier or PA system, eliminating the need for cables.
Digital Modeling Pickups: Digital modeling pickups use advanced algorithms to emulate the sound of different microphones and pickup types. This allows guitarists to switch between a wide range of tones with a single pickup system.
Smart Pickups: Smart pickups incorporate sensors and microprocessors to analyze the guitar’s vibrations and optimize the amplified sound. These systems can automatically adjust the EQ and dynamics to provide the best possible tone.
Improved Feedback Rejection: New pickup designs and technologies are constantly being developed to minimize feedback. These include advanced microphone designs, feedback suppression circuits, and optimized pickup placement.
Enhanced Natural Sound: Many manufacturers are focusing on developing pickups that capture the natural sound of the acoustic guitar more accurately. These include improved microphone designs, advanced piezo materials, and sophisticated signal processing techniques.

15. Acoustic Guitar Pickup Brands in the USA

The United States is home to many leading acoustic guitar pickup brands. Here are some of the most popular and respected brands in the US market:

LR Baggs: LR Baggs is known for its high-quality acoustic guitar pickups and preamplifiers. The company’s Anthem and M1 series are particularly popular among professional guitarists.
Fishman: Fishman is a leading manufacturer of acoustic guitar pickups, preamplifiers, and amplifiers. The company’s Rare Earth and Matrix series are widely used in acoustic guitars.
Seymour Duncan: Seymour Duncan is best known for its electric guitar pickups, but the company also offers a range of acoustic guitar pickups. The Woody series is a popular choice for its warm and versatile tone.
K&K Sound: K&K Sound specializes in piezo pickups for acoustic instruments. The company’s Pure Mini pickup is highly regarded for its natural and transparent sound.
Sunrise Pickups: Sunrise Pickups is a boutique manufacturer of high-end magnetic soundhole pickups. The company’s S-2 pickup is a favorite among fingerstyle guitarists.

16. Famous Guitar Stores in the USA

Here are some famous guitar stores in the USA where you can find acoustic guitars, pickups, and accessories:

Store Name	Location	Description
Gruhn Guitars	Nashville, Tennessee	Renowned vintage guitar store with a wide selection of acoustic guitars, including rare and collectible models.
Carter Vintage Guitars	Nashville, Tennessee	Specializes in vintage and used guitars, with a focus on high-quality acoustic instruments.
Chicago Music Exchange	Chicago, Illinois	Offers a wide selection of new and used guitars, amplifiers, and accessories, with a knowledgeable staff.
Rudy’s Music	New York City, New York	A well-known guitar store with a wide selection of acoustic and electric guitars, as well as amps and effects.
Norman’s Rare Guitars	Tarzana, California	A legendary vintage guitar store with a vast collection of rare and collectible guitars, often frequented by famous musicians.
Guitar Center	Nationwide	A large chain of music stores with a wide selection of acoustic guitars, pickups, and accessories.
Sweetwater Sound	Fort Wayne, Indiana	An online retailer with a massive selection of guitars, amplifiers, and accessories.

17. The Future of Acoustic Guitar Pickups

The future of acoustic guitar pickups is bright, with ongoing research and development leading to new and innovative technologies. Here are some potential future trends:

AI-Powered Pickups: Artificial intelligence (AI) could be used to analyze the guitar’s sound in real-time and adjust the pickup’s settings to optimize the tone.
Holographic Pickups: Holographic technology could be used to create pickups that capture the guitar’s sound in three dimensions, providing a more realistic and immersive listening experience.
Self-Powered Pickups: Pickups that generate their own power using solar cells or other energy-harvesting technologies could eliminate the need for batteries or external power supplies.
3D-Printed Pickups: 3D printing could be used to create custom pickup designs tailored to specific guitars and playing styles.
Integration with Virtual Reality (VR): Acoustic guitar pickups could be integrated with VR technology to create immersive and interactive music experiences.

18. Acoustic Guitar Pickup Community

Joining an acoustic guitar pickup community can be a valuable way to learn, share, and connect with other enthusiasts. Here are some online communities you can join:

guitarplayers.net Forum: Our forum provides a space for guitar players to discuss various topics related to acoustic guitar pickups, share experiences, ask questions, and get advice from experienced builders and players.
Acoustic Guitar Forum: This forum has a dedicated section for discussing acoustic guitar pickups and amplification.
Reddit’s r/Guitar: This subreddit has a large and active community of guitar players who discuss a wide range of topics, including acoustic pickups.
Facebook Groups: There are many Facebook groups dedicated to acoustic guitars and pickups. Search for groups related to your specific interests.

19. Resources for Learning More

Here are some resources to help you learn more about acoustic guitar pickups:

Online Courses: Websites like Coursera and Udemy offer courses on guitar electronics and pickup design.
Books: Check out books like “Electric Guitar Pickups: Volume 1: Understanding the Science and Improving the Tone” by Duncan Hopkins.
YouTube Channels: Subscribe to channels like “Texas Toast Guitars” and “David Petillo” for videos on guitar electronics and modifications.
Manufacturer Websites: Visit the websites of pickup manufacturers like LR Baggs, Fishman, and Seymour Duncan for detailed information about their products.

20. Contact Information

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Address: 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States
Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261
Website: guitarplayers.net

FAQ

1. What is an acoustic guitar pickup?
An acoustic guitar pickup is a device that converts the mechanical vibrations of an acoustic guitar into an electrical signal, which can then be amplified.

2. What are the different types of acoustic guitar pickups?
The main types of acoustic guitar pickups are piezo pickups, magnetic soundhole pickups, and microphone pickups. Hybrid systems combine multiple technologies.

3. Which type of pickup is best for an acoustic guitar?
The best type of pickup depends on your personal preferences and the sound you want to achieve. Piezo pickups are popular for their clarity, magnetic soundhole pickups for their warmth, and microphone pickups for their natural sound.

4. Can I install an acoustic guitar pickup myself?
Yes, you can install an acoustic guitar pickup yourself, especially if you have some experience with electronics and guitar repair. However, if you’re not comfortable with the process, it’s best to have it installed by a professional.

5. How do I choose the right pickup for my acoustic guitar?
Consider the type of sound you want, your budget, and your playing style. Read reviews, listen to sound samples, and consult with experienced guitar players or technicians.

6. What is a preamp and why do I need one?
A preamp is an electronic device that boosts the signal from the pickup, making it stronger and more suitable for amplification. It can also provide tone-shaping options.

7. How do I troubleshoot a weak or distorted signal from my pickup?
Check the connections, ensure the pickup is properly mounted, and try a different amplifier or cable. If the problem persists, consult with a professional technician.

8. How do I minimize feedback when using an acoustic guitar pickup?
Position the guitar away from the amplifier, use a feedback suppressor or equalizer, and adjust the microphone position (if using a microphone pickup).

9. What are some popular acoustic guitar pickup brands?
Some popular brands include LR Baggs, Fishman, Seymour Duncan, and K&K Sound.

10. Where can I buy acoustic guitar pickups?
You can buy acoustic guitar pickups at guitar stores, music stores, and online retailers.

Ready to take your acoustic guitar playing to the next level? Visit guitarplayers.net today to explore our lessons, discover new music, read in-depth reviews, and connect with a vibrant community of guitar players in the USA. Start your journey now and unleash the full potential of your acoustic guitar!