Electric guitars are a popular choice for musicians of all levels, and for good reason. They’re versatile, portable, and relatively easy to learn to play. But what if you want the sound of an acoustic guitar with the convenience of an electric? That’s where electric guitars with piezo pickups come in.
Editor’s Notes: Electric guitars with piezo pickups are a great way to get the best of both worlds. They offer the warm, natural sound of an acoustic guitar with the versatility and convenience of an electric. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, an electric guitar with a piezo pickup is a great choice.
We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you choose the right electric guitar with a piezo pickup for your needs. We’ll discuss the different types of piezo pickups, the pros and cons of each, and some of the best electric guitars with piezo pickups on the market today.
| Type of Piezo Pickup | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Undersaddle | Most natural sound | Can be difficult to install |
| Soundboard | Easy to install | Less natural sound |
| Bridge | Good compromise between sound and ease of installation | Can be more expensive than other types |
Now that you know a little bit more about electric guitars with piezo pickups, you can start shopping for the right one for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Your budget: Electric guitars with piezo pickups can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
- Your playing style: If you’re a heavy strummer, you’ll need an electric guitar with a piezo pickup that can handle the extra force. If you’re a fingerstyle player, you’ll need an electric guitar with a piezo pickup that is sensitive enough to capture the nuances of your playing.
- The sound you want: Piezo pickups can produce a variety of sounds, from warm and mellow to bright and jangly. It’s important to listen to different electric guitars with piezo pickups before you buy one so that you can find the sound that you like best.
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to choose the right electric guitar with a piezo pickup for your needs. With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect guitar for your playing style and budget.
1. Type of piezo pickup
The type of piezo pickup you choose will have a significant impact on the sound and feel of your electric guitar with piezo. Here is a breakdown of the three main types of piezo pickups:
Undersaddle pickups are mounted under the bridge saddle, and they sense the vibrations of the strings through the bridge. Undersaddle pickups are known for their natural and authentic sound, and they are often used in acoustic-electric guitars. However, undersaddle pickups can be difficult to install, and they can sometimes feedback when played at high volumes.
Soundboard pickups are mounted on the soundboard of the guitar, and they sense the vibrations of the soundboard. Soundboard pickups are known for their warm and mellow sound, and they are often used in jazz and classical guitars. However, soundboard pickups can be less sensitive than other types of piezo pickups, and they can sometimes be affected by feedback.
Bridge pickups are mounted on the bridge of the guitar, and they sense the vibrations of the strings through the bridge. Bridge pickups are known for their bright and jangly sound, and they are often used in rock and country guitars. However, bridge pickups can be more susceptible to feedback than other types of piezo pickups.
Ultimately, the best type of piezo pickup for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. If you are looking for a natural and authentic sound, an undersaddle pickup is a good choice. If you are looking for a warm and mellow sound, a soundboard pickup is a good choice. And if you are looking for a bright and jangly sound, a bridge pickup is a good choice.
| Type of piezo pickup | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Undersaddle | Natural and authentic sound | Difficult to install, can feedback |
| Soundboard | Warm and mellow sound | Less sensitive, can be affected by feedback |
| Bridge | Bright and jangly sound | More susceptible to feedback |
2. Sound
The sound of an electric guitar with piezo can vary from warm and mellow to bright and jangly, depending on the type of piezo pickup used and the construction of the guitar. Here are a few of the factors that can affect the sound of an electric guitar with piezo:
- Type of piezo pickup: Undersaddle pickups tend to produce a warmer and more natural sound, while soundboard pickups tend to produce a brighter and more jangly sound. Bridge pickups can produce a variety of sounds, depending on their placement and construction.
- Construction of the guitar: The type of wood used in the body and neck of the guitar can also affect the sound. For example, a guitar with a solid wood body will produce a warmer and more resonant sound than a guitar with a laminated body.
- String gauge: The gauge of the strings can also affect the sound of an electric guitar with piezo. Heavier strings will produce a warmer and more mellow sound, while lighter strings will produce a brighter and more jangly sound.
Ultimately, the best way to find the right sound for your electric guitar with piezo is to experiment with different types of pickups and guitars. By understanding the factors that affect the sound of an electric guitar with piezo, you can choose the right guitar and pickup combination to achieve the sound you want.
3. Installation
The ease of installation of an electric guitar with piezo pickup varies depending on the type of pickup used. Here are three of the most common types of piezo pickups and their respective installation processes:
- Undersaddle pickups are the most difficult to install, as they require the removal of the bridge and the drilling of a hole in the bridge plate. However, undersaddle pickups are also the most natural-sounding, as they are m
ounted directly under the bridge saddle and sense the vibrations of the strings directly. - Soundboard pickups are easier to install than undersaddle pickups, as they can be mounted to the soundboard of the guitar with adhesive or screws. However, soundboard pickups are not as natural-sounding as undersaddle pickups, as they sense the vibrations of the soundboard rather than the strings directly.
- Bridge pickups are the easiest to install, as they simply clamp onto the bridge of the guitar. However, bridge pickups are not as natural-sounding as undersaddle or soundboard pickups, as they sense the vibrations of the strings through the bridge rather than directly.
Ultimately, the best type of piezo pickup for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. If you are looking for a natural and authentic sound, an undersaddle pickup is a good choice. If you are looking for an easy-to-install pickup, a bridge pickup is a good choice. And if you are looking for a compromise between sound quality and ease of installation, a soundboard pickup is a good choice.
4. Budget
The price of an electric guitar with piezo can vary greatly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. This is due to a number of factors, including the type of piezo pickup used, the construction of the guitar, and the brand name. Piezo pickups that are mounted under the bridge saddle (undersaddle pickups) are typically more expensive than soundboard pickups or bridge pickups. Guitars with solid wood bodies are also more expensive than guitars with laminated bodies. And guitars from well-known brands tend to be more expensive than guitars from lesser-known brands.
It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for an electric guitar with piezo. This will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending. If you are on a tight budget, there are a number of affordable electric guitars with piezo pickups available. However, if you are looking for a high-quality guitar with a specific sound, you may need to spend more money.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when setting your budget:
- The type of piezo pickup you want
- The construction of the guitar
- The brand name
- Your playing style
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can set a budget and start shopping for the perfect electric guitar with piezo for your needs.
Table: Electric Guitar with Piezo Prices
| Type of Piezo Pickup | Construction | Brand | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undersaddle | Solid wood body | Taylor | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Soundboard | Laminated body | Fender | $500-$1,000 |
| Bridge | Solid wood body | Gibson | $1,000-$2,000 |
5. Playing style
The type of piezo pickup you choose will have a significant impact on the sound and feel of your electric guitar with piezo. Here is a breakdown of the three main types of piezo pickups and how they relate to different playing styles:
- Undersaddle pickups are mounted under the bridge saddle, and they sense the vibrations of the strings through the bridge. Undersaddle pickups are known for their natural and authentic sound, and they are often used in acoustic-electric guitars. This type of pickup is a good choice for fingerstyle players who want to capture the nuances of their playing.
- Soundboard pickups are mounted on the soundboard of the guitar, and they sense the vibrations of the soundboard. Soundboard pickups are known for their warm and mellow sound, and they are often used in jazz and classical guitars. This type of pickup is a good choice for players who want a warmer, more traditional sound.
- Bridge pickups are mounted on the bridge of the guitar, and they sense the vibrations of the strings through the bridge. Bridge pickups are known for their bright and jangly sound, and they are often used in rock and country guitars. This type of pickup is a good choice for players who want a brighter, more modern sound.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a piezo pickup for your electric guitar is to try out different models and see which one feels and sounds the best to you. Consider your playing style and the sound you want to achieve, and experiment with different types of pickups until you find the perfect one for you.
| Playing Style | Recommended Piezo Pickup Type | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerstyle | Undersaddle | Natural and authentic sound, captures the nuances of playing |
| Jazz, classical | Soundboard | Warm and mellow sound, traditional sound |
| Rock, country | Bridge | Bright and jangly sound, modern sound |
6. Versatility
Electric guitars with piezo pickups offer a unique blend of the warm, natural sound of an acoustic guitar with the versatility and convenience of an electric. This makes them a great choice for players of all genres, from folk and blues to rock and metal.
- Acoustic-electric guitars: Piezo pickups are often used in acoustic-electric guitars, which allow players to amplify the natural sound of their guitar without sacrificing tone or volume. This makes them a popular choice for singer-songwriters and other performers who need to be able to switch between acoustic and electric sounds quickly and easily.
- Jazz guitars: Piezo pickups are also popular in jazz guitars, where they can be used to create a warm and mellow sound. This is due to the fact that piezo pickups are able to capture the subtle nuances of a player’s technique, making them a great choice for players who want to express themselves musically.
- Classical guitars: Piezo pickups are also becoming increasingly popular in classical guitars, where they can be used to amplify the natural sound of the guitar without adding any unwanted noise or distortion. This makes them a great choice for classical guitarists who want to be able to perform in a variety of settings, from small recital halls to large concert halls.
- Rock and metal guitars: Piezo pickups can also be used in rock and metal guitars, where they can be used to create a variety of sounds, from clean and jangly to heavy and distorted. This makes them a great choice for players who want to be able to experiment with different sounds and styles.
Overall, electric guitars with piezo pickups offer a great deal of versatility, making them a great choice for players of all genres. Whether you’re looking for a guitar that can handle a variety of styles or you’re simply looking for a guitar that sounds great, an electric guitar with a piezo pickup is a great option.
7. Convenience
Electric guitars with piezo pickups offer a unique blend of the warm, natural sound of an acoustic guitar with the versatility and convenience of an electric. This makes them a great choice for players who want the sound of an acoustic guitar without the hassle of having to mic it up or deal with feedback. Piezo pickups are also much less susceptible to feedback than traditional magnetic pickups, making them a great choice for players who want to play at high volumes.
In addition to their convenience, piezo pickups also offer a number of other benefits. They are very durable and can withstand the rigors of touring and live performance. They are also very easy to install, making them a great choice for players who want to upgrade their guitar without having to take it to a luthier.
Overall, electric guitars with piezo pickups offer a great deal of versatility and convenience, making them a great choice for players of all levels and genres.
Here are some real-life examples of how piezo pickups can be used to achieve the convenience of an electric guitar with the sound of an acoustic:
- Singer-songwriters can use piezo pickups to amplify their acoustic guitars without sacrificing tone or volume, making them a great choice for live performances.
- Jazz guitarists can use piezo pickups to create a warm and mellow sound, making them a great choice for playing in small venues or for recording.
- Classical guitarists can use piezo pickups to amplify their guitars without adding any unwanted noise or distortion, making them a great choice for playing in large concert halls.
- Rock and metal guitarists can use piezo pickups to create a variety of sounds, from clean and jangly to heavy and distorted, making them a great choice for players who want to experiment with different sounds and styles.
Table: Benefits of Piezo Pickups
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Piezo pickups offer the convenience of an electric guitar with the sound of an acoustic, making them a great choice for players who want the best of both worlds. |
| Versatility | Piezo pickups can be used to create a variety of sounds, from clean and jangly to heavy and distorted, making them a great choice for players of all genres. |
| Durability | Piezo pickups are very durable and can withstand the rigors of touring and live performance. |
| Ease of installation | Piezo pickups are very easy to install, making them a great choice for players who want to upgrade their guitar without having to take it to a luthier. |
8. Portability
The portability of electric guitars with piezo pickups is a major advantage for musicians who need to travel with their instruments. Unlike traditional acoustic guitars, which can be bulky and difficult to transport, electric guitars with piezo pickups are relatively lightweight and compact. This makes them a great choice for musicians who play in multiple locations or who need to travel for gigs or tours.
In addition to their portability, electric guitars with piezo pickups are also very durable. The piezo pickup system is mounted inside the guitar, which protects it from damage during transport. This makes electric guitars with piezo pickups a great choice for musicians who need a guitar that can withstand the rigors of travel.
Here are some real-life examples of how the portability of electric guitars with piezo pickups can benefit musicians:
- Gigging musicians can easily transport their electric guitars with piezo pickups from one gig to the next, without having to worry about damage or bulky equipment.
- Traveling musicians can take their electric guitars with piezo pickups with them on tour, without having to worry about the guitar being damaged or taking up too much space.
- Musicians who live in small spaces can appreciate the portability of electric guitars with piezo pickups, as they can be easily stored in a closet or under a bed.
Overall, the portability of electric guitars with piezo pickups is a major advantage for musicians who need to travel with their instruments. These guitars are lightweight, compact, and durable, making them a great choice for musicians of all levels.
Table: Benefits of the Portability of Electric Guitars with Piezo Pickups
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and compact | Electric guitars with piezo pickups are relatively lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport. |
| Durable | The piezo pickup system is mounted inside the guitar, which protects it from damage during transport. |
| Great for gigging musicians | Gigging musicians can easily transport their electric guitars with piezo pickups from one gig to the next, without having to worry about damage or bulky equipment. |
| Great for traveling musicians | Traveling musicians can take their electric guitars with piezo pickups with them on tour, without having to worry about the guitar being damaged or taking up too much space. |
| Great for musicians who live in small spaces | Musicians who live in small spaces can appreciate the portability of electric guitars with piezo pickups, as they can be easily stored in a closet or under a bed. |
9. Durability
In the realm of electric guitars, the durability of piezo pickups stands out as a significant advantage. Piezo pickups are known for their exceptional resilience, making them highly suitable for various playing styles and performance environments.
- Resistance to Wear and Tear: Piezo pickups are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and transportation. Unlike magnetic pickups, which can be affected by moisture and temperature fluctuations, piezo pickups remain stable and reliable in diverse conditions. This durability makes them ideal for musicians who travel frequently, play in demanding live settings, or simply desire a guitar that can endure the test of time.
- Resilience to Impact and Shock: The internal construction of piezo pickups provides inherent protection against accidental impacts and shocks. Unlike delicate wiring or magnets found in other pickup types, piezo pickups utilize robust materials and solid connections, ensuring they can withstand the occasional bumps or knocks without compromising performance.
- Stability Under Extreme Conditions: Piezo pickups exhibit remarkable stability even under extreme temperature and humidity variations. They maintain their tonal characteristics and functionality in both scorching heat and frigid cold, making them suitable for outdoor performances or studio environments where temperature control may be limited.
- Long-Term Reliability: The durable nature of piezo pickups translates into exceptional longevity. With proper care and maintenance, these pickups can provide decades of reliable service, ensuring that your electric guitar with piezo pickup remains a cherished companion for countless performances and recor
dings.
The durability of piezo pickups is a key factor that contributes to the overall reliability and value of electric guitars equipped with this technology. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, an electric guitar with a piezo pickup offers the peace of mind that comes with knowing your instrument will perform consistently and endure the demands of your musical journey.
FAQs on Electric Guitars with Piezo Pickups
Electric guitars with piezo pickups offer a unique blend of acoustic and electric guitar characteristics, raising common questions and concerns among musicians. This FAQ section aims to address some of the frequently asked questions to provide clarity and enhance your understanding of these versatile instruments.
Question 1: How do electric guitars with piezo pickups differ from traditional electric guitars?
Electric guitars with piezo pickups utilize piezoelectric technology to convert string vibrations into electrical signals, providing a more natural and acoustic-like sound compared to traditional magnetic pickups. They offer a wider tonal range and enhanced dynamic response, capturing the nuances of playing techniques.
Question 2: What are the advantages of piezo pickups over magnetic pickups?
Piezo pickups offer several advantages: they are less susceptible to feedback, especially at high volumes, making them ideal for live performances. They also provide a more accurate and natural sound reproduction, preserving the harmonic richness and articulation of the strings. Additionally, piezo pickups are not affected by magnetic interference, ensuring consistent performance in various environments.
Question 3: Are electric guitars with piezo pickups suitable for all playing styles?
Electric guitars with piezo pickups are versatile and can accommodate diverse playing styles. They excel in genres such as acoustic-electric, jazz, and classical, where a natural and dynamic sound is desired. However, they can also be used effectively in rock, blues, and other genres, providing a unique tonal character that blends the warmth of an acoustic guitar with the versatility of an electric guitar.
Question 4: How do I choose the right electric guitar with a piezo pickup?
Selecting the right electric guitar with a piezo pickup involves considering factors such as the type of piezo pickup (undersaddle, soundboard, or bridge), the construction and tonewoods of the guitar, and your playing style and preferences. Experimenting with different guitars and pickups is recommended to find the combination that best suits your needs.
Question 5: Are electric guitars with piezo pickups more expensive than traditional electric guitars?
The price of electric guitars with piezo pickups can vary depending on the brand, quality, and features. Generally, they tend to be priced higher than traditional electric guitars due to the specialized technology and craftsmanship involved in their construction. However, the versatility and unique tonal capabilities they offer may justify the investment for many musicians.
Question 6: How do I maintain an electric guitar with a piezo pickup?
Maintaining an electric guitar with a piezo pickup is similar to maintaining a traditional electric guitar. Regular cleaning, restringing, and adjustments are essential to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid extreme temperature and humidity changes to preserve the integrity of the piezo pickup and the guitar’s construction.
Summary: Electric guitars with piezo pickups offer a unique and versatile playing experience, combining the natural sound of an acoustic guitar with the convenience and versatility of an electric guitar. Understanding their advantages, applications, and maintenance requirements can help you make informed decisions and maximize the potential of these exceptional instruments.
Transition to the next article section: With a better understanding of electric guitars with piezo pickups, let’s delve into some practical considerations for selecting and using these instruments effectively.
Tips for Electric Guitars with Piezo Pickups
Incorporating electric guitars with piezo pickups into your musical repertoire can unlock a world of sonic possibilities. Here are a few essential tips to help you get the most out of these versatile instruments:
Tip 1: Explore Pickup Placement Options
The placement of the piezo pickup significantly influences the sound and response of the guitar. Undersaddle pickups provide a more natural and balanced tone, while soundboard pickups offer a warmer and mellower sound. Bridge-mounted pickups deliver a brighter and more percussive attack. Experiment with different pickup placements to find the optimal sound for your playing style.
Tip 2: Match Pickup Type to Guitar Construction
The type of piezo pickup should complement the construction and tonewoods of the guitar. Solid-body guitars with piezo pickups tend to produce a more focused and articulate sound, while guitars with arched tops and soundboards provide a more resonant and complex tone. Consider the overall tonal character you desire when selecting a piezo pickup.
Tip 3: Experiment with String Gauges
The gauge of strings you use can impact the sound and feel of your electric guitar with a piezo pickup. Heavier strings produce a warmer and fuller tone, while lighter strings provide a brighter and more articulate sound. Try different string gauges to find the combination that best suits your playing style and the desired sonic outcome.
Tip 4: Utilize Preamp and EQ for Tonal Shaping
An external preamp or equalizer can enhance the tonal capabilities of your electric guitar with a piezo pickup. Use a preamp to boost the signal and adjust the overall volume, while an EQ allows you to fine-tune the frequency response and shape the sound to your liking. Experiment with different settings to find the optimal tonal balance for your playing.
Tip 5: Consider Feedback Control
Electric guitars with piezo pickups are less prone to feedback than traditional magnetic pickups, but it can still occur at high volumes or under certain conditions. Utilize feedback-reducing techniques such as proper grounding, strategic placement of the guitar body, and the use of a soundhole cover or feedback suppressor to minimize unwanted feedback.
Summary: By understanding these tips and experimenting with various pickup configurations, string gauges, and tonal shaping options, you can unleash the full potential of your electric guitar with a piezo pickup. These versatile instruments offer a unique blend of acoustic and electric guitar characteristics, providing a rich and dynamic playing experience.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: With the knowledge gained from these tips, you are well-equipped to incorporate electric guitars with piezo pickups into your musical arsenal and explore the vast sonic possibilities they offer.
Conclusion
Electric guitars with piezo pickups have emerged as a versatile and innovative solution for musicians seeking the unique blend of acoustic and electric guitar characteristics. Their ability to capture the natural sound and dynamics of an acoustic guitar while retaining the convenience and versatility of an electric guitar has made them a popular choice among players of various genres.
Throughout this exploration, we have delved into the different types of piezo pickups, their advantages over traditional magnetic pickups, and the factors to consider when selecting and using these instruments effectively. By understanding the nuances o
f pickup placement, matching the pickup type to the guitar construction, experimenting with string gauges, and utilizing preamp and EQ for tonal shaping, guitarists can unlock the full potential of their electric guitars with piezo pickups.
As the technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative and refined piezo pickup systems in the future, further expanding the sonic possibilities for electric guitarists. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, incorporating an electric guitar with a piezo pickup into your musical arsenal can open up a world of creative expression and redefine your playing experience.
