Have you ever wondered how acoustic guitars produce such a clear and natural sound when amplified? The secret lies in a small but powerful device known as a piezo pickup.
Editor’s Note:Piezo pickup acoustic guitars are essential for musicians who want to amplify their acoustic sound without sacrificing tone or volume. If you’re considering buying an acoustic guitar, be sure to check out our guide to piezo pickup acoustic guitars to learn more about this innovative technology.
We’ve done the research and digging, and we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to piezo pickup acoustic guitars to help you make the right decision for your needs.
Key Differences: Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitars vs. Traditional Acoustic Guitars
| Characteristic | Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Clear, natural sound with excellent string definition | Warmer, more resonant sound |
| Volume | Louder than traditional acoustic guitars | Quieter than piezo pickup acoustic guitars |
| Feedback Resistance | Excellent feedback resistance | Prone to feedback |
| Price | More expensive than traditional acoustic guitars | Less expensive than piezo pickup acoustic guitars |
Main Article Topics
- How Piezo Pickups Work
- The Benefits of Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitars
- How to Choose the Right Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar
- Tips for Getting the Best Sound from Your Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar
1. Transducer Type
This is the fundamental principle behind the operation of piezo pickup acoustic guitars. Piezo pickups use a piezoelectric material, which is a material that generates an electrical charge when it is subjected to mechanical stress. When the strings of a piezo pickup acoustic guitar vibrate, they cause the piezoelectric material in the pickup to vibrate as well. This vibration generates an electrical signal, which is then amplified and sent to the guitar’s output jack.
- Facet 1: Piezo pickups are very sensitive to vibrations. This means that they can accurately reproduce the sound of the guitar, even when the guitar is played softly.
- Facet 2: Piezo pickups are very durable. This makes them ideal for use in live performances, where they can withstand the rigors of touring and heavy use.
- Facet 3: Piezo pickups are very resistant to feedback. This makes them ideal for use in high-volume situations, such as when playing with a band.
- Facet 4: Piezo pickups can be used with a variety of guitars. This makes them a versatile option for guitarists of all levels.
Overall, piezo pickups offer a number of advantages over traditional acoustic guitar pickups. They are more sensitive, durable, and resistant to feedback, and they can be used with a variety of guitars. As a result, piezo pickups are becoming increasingly popular with guitarists of all levels.
2. Mounting
The mounting location of a piezo pickup has a significant impact on its sound. Piezo pickups that are mounted under the bridge tend to produce a brighter sound with more attack, while piezo pickups that are mounted on the soundboard tend to produce a warmer sound with more body. Piezo pickups that are mounted inside the body of the guitar tend to produce a more natural sound that is less affected by the guitar’s body resonance.
- Facet 1: Piezo pickups that are mounted under the bridge produce a brighter sound with more attack. This is because the pickup is closer to the strings, and therefore more sensitive to their vibrations. As a result, piezo pickups that are mounted under the bridge are often used in guitars that are played in a more aggressive style, such as rock and metal.
- Facet 2: Piezo pickups that are mounted on the soundboard produce a warmer sound with more body. This is because the pickup is closer to the soundboard, and therefore more sensitive to the vibrations of the guitar’s body. As a result, piezo pickups that are mounted on the soundboard are often used in guitars that are played in a more mellow style, such as folk and jazz.
- Facet 3: Piezo pickups that are mounted inside the body of the guitar produce a more natural sound that is less affected by the guitar’s body resonance. This is because the pickup is not directly attached to the soundboard, and therefore less affected by its vibrations. As a result, piezo pickups that are mounted inside the body of the guitar are often used in guitars that are played in a more acoustic style, such as classical and flamenco.
Ultimately, the best mounting location for a piezo pickup depends on the desired sound. Guitarists who want a brighter sound with more attack should choose a piezo pickup that is mounted under the bridge. Guitarists who want a warmer sound with more body should choose a piezo pickup that is mounted on the soundboard. Guitarists who want a more natural sound that is less affected by the guitar’s body resonance should choose a piezo pickup that is mounted inside the body of the guitar.
3. Impedance
The impedance of a piezo pickup is the resistance that it offers to the flow of electrical current. Piezo pickups have a high impedance, which means that they require a preamp to boost the signal before it can be sent to an amplifier. This is because the high impedance of the piezo pickup can cause the signal to be lost or weakened before it reaches the amplifier.
A preamp is a device that amplifies the signal from a piezo pickup. Preamps are typically built into acoustic guitars that have piezo pickups, but they can also be purchased as standalone units. Preamps typically have a variety of controls that allow the user to adjust the gain, EQ, and other aspects of the sound.
Using a preamp with a piezo pickup acoustic guitar is essential for achieving the best possible sound. Preamps help to boost the signal from the piezo pickup, making it louder and more powerful. They also help to shape the sound of the guitar, allowing the user to adjust the EQ and other aspects of the sound to their liking.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the impedance of piezo pickups:
| Characteristic | Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Impedance | High |
| Requires Preamp | Yes |
| Benefits of Using a Preamp | Boosts signal, shapes sound |
4. Frequency Response
The frequency response of a piezo pickup refers to the range of frequencies that the pickup can accurately reproduce. Piezo pickups have a wide frequency response, which means that they can accurately reproduce the sound of the guitar, from the lowest bass notes to the highest treble notes.
- Facet 1: Piezo pickups are able to accurately reproduce the sound of the guitar because they are very sensitive to vibrations. This means that they can pick up even the smallest vibrations of the strings, which results in a very accurate sound.
- Facet 2: Piezo pickups have a very flat frequency response, which means that they do not boost or cut any particular frequencies. This results in a very natural sound that is true to the sound of the guitar.
- Facet 3: Piezo pickups are very consistent in their frequency response, which means that they will sound the same regardless of the guitar they are installed in. This makes them a very versatile option for guitarists who want to use the same pickup in different guitars.
- Facet 4: Piezo pickups are very durable, which means that they can withstand the rigors of touring and live performance. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who need a pickup that will last.
Overall, the wide frequency response of piezo pickups makes them a great choice for guitarists who want to accurately reproduce the sound of their guitar. Piezo pickups are also very versatile and durable, making them a good choice for a wide range of guitarists.
5. Feedback Resistance
Feedback is a common problem for acoustic guitarists, especially when playing at high volumes. Feedback occurs when the sound from the guitar’s amplifier is picked up by the guitar’s pickup and re-amplified, creating a squealing or howling sound. Piezo pickups are very resistant to feedback, which makes them ideal for live performances.
There are two main reasons why piezo pickups are so resistant to feedback. First, piezo pickups are mounted under the bridge of the guitar, which is a less resonant area of the guitar body. This means that piezo pickups are less likely to pick up vibrations from the guitar’s body, which can cause feedback. Second, piezo pickups have a high output impedance, which means that they are less likely to be affected by electrical interference from other sources, such as stage lights or other electrical equipment.
As a result of their high feedback resistance, piezo pickups are a popular choice for guitarists who play in loud environments, such as live performances. Piezo pickups allow guitarists to play at high volumes without having to worry about feedback, which can be a major problem for acoustic guitarists.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the feedback resistance of piezo pickups:
| Characteristic | Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Feedback Resistance | Very high |
| Ideal for Live Performances | Yes |
| Reason for Feedback Resistance | Mounted under the bridge, high output impedance |
6. Durability
Piezo pickups are known for their exceptional durability, making them ideal for the demands of touring and live performances. Their robust construction ensures that they can endure the stresses of constant travel and the physical rigors of onstage use.
- Facet 1: Piezo pickups are not affected by extreme temperatures or humidity. Unlike some other types of pickups, piezo pickups are not susceptible to damage from extreme heat or cold, or from changes in humidity. This makes them a reliable choice for musicians who travel to different climates or play in outdoor venues.
- Facet 2: Piezo pickups are resistant to physical impact. The rugged design of piezo pickups makes them resistant to accidental drops or bumps. This is important for musicians who are constantly on the move and need a pickup that can withstand the rigors of travel and live performance.
- Facet 3: Piezo pickups have a long lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, piezo pickups can last for many years. This makes them a cost-effective investment for musicians who want a pickup that will provide reliable performance for years to come.
- Facet 4: Piezo pickups are easy to maintain. Piezo pickups require minimal maintenance. They do not need to be regularly adjusted or calibrated, and they can be easily cleaned with a soft cloth.
The durability of piezo pickups makes them an excellent choice for musicians who need a reliable pickup that can withstand the rigors of touring and live performance. Piezo pickups offer peace of mind, knowing that they will perform consistently night after night, regardless of the conditions.
7. Cost
The higher cost of piezo pickup acoustic guitars stems from several factors that contribute to their unique design and functionality:
- Component Costs: Piezo pickups themselves are more expensive to manufacture than traditional magnetic pickups. This is due to the specialized materials and precision engineering required to create a piezo pickup with the desired sensitivity and frequency response.
- Installation Complexity: Installing a piezo pickup requires more specialized knowledge and skill than installing a traditional magnetic pickup. Piezo pickups are typically mounted under the bridge of the guitar, which requires careful routing and soldering to ensure proper placement and electrical connectivity.
- Preamplifier Integration: Piezo pickups have a high impedance, which means they require a preamplifier to boost the signal before it can be sent to an amplifier. Preamplifiers can be built into the guitar or purchased as separate units, adding to the overall cost.
- Research and Development: The development of piezo pickup technology has required significant research and investment. This includes ongoing efforts to improve the sensitivity, frequency response, and feedback resistance of piezo pickups.
Despite the higher cost, piezo pickup acoustic guitars offer several advantages that make them worth the investment for many musicians. These advantages include superior sound quality, increased durability, and excellent feedback resistance. Ultimately, the decision of whether to purchase a piezo pickup acoustic guitar depends on the individual musician’s needs, preferences, and budget.
8. Sound
Piezo pickups are known for their ability to accurately reproduce the natural sound of an acoustic guitar, with excellent string definition. This is due to several factors:
- Sensitivity: Piezo pickups are very sensitive to vibrations, which allows them to accurately capture the subtle nuances of a guitar’s sound.
- Wide Frequency Response: Piezo pickups have a wide frequency response, which means they can reproduce the full range of frequencies produced by an acoustic guitar.
- Low Noise: Piezo pickups produce very little noise, which helps to preserve the natural sound of the guitar.
The clear, natural sound of piezo pickups makes them a popular choice for guitarists who want to amplify the sound of their acoustic guitar without sacrificing tone or clarity. Piezo pickups are also well-suited for recording, as they can accurately capture the sound of the guitar without adding any unwanted coloration.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the sound quality of piezo pickups:
| Characteristic | Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Clear, natural sound with excellent string definition |
| Sensitivity | Very sensitive to vibrations |
| Frequency Response | Wide frequency response |
| Noise | Very low noise |
Overall, the clear, natural sound of piezo pickups makes them an excellent choice for guitarists who want to amplify the sound of their acoustic guitar without sacrificing tone or clarity.
9. Volume
The ability of piezo pickups to produce a louder volume than traditional acoustic guitars is a significant advantage, especially in live performance situations. This increased volume allows guitarists to be heard more clearly in a band setting or in large venues. The louder volume also makes it easier for guitarists to play solos or lead parts without being drowned out by other instruments.
The increased volume of piezo pickups is due to several factors. First, piezo pickups are more sensitive to vibrations than traditional magnetic pickups. This means that they can convert more of the guitar’s vibrations into electrical signals, which results in a louder output. Second, piezo pickups have a higher output impedance than magnetic pickups. This means that they can produce a stronger signal without the need for a preamplifier.
The louder volume of piezo pickups makes them a good choice for guitarists who need to be heard in a loud environment. They are also a good choice for guitarists who want to play solos or lead parts. However, it is important to note that the increased volume of piezo pickups can also lead to feedback, so it is important to use them with a feedback suppressor.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the volume of piezo pickups:
| Characteristic | Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Volume | Louder than traditional acoustic guitars |
| Sensitivity | More sensitive to vibrations than magnetic pickups |
| Output Impedance | Higher than magnetic pickups |
Overall, the louder volume of piezo pickups makes them a good choice for guitarists who need to be heard in a loud environment or who want to play solos or lead parts.
10. Versatility
The versatility of piezo pickup acoustic guitars is one of their greatest strengths. Unlike traditional acoustic guitars, which are often associated with a specific genre of music, piezo pickup acoustic guitars can be used for a wide range of genres, from folk to rock to country. This versatility is due to the unique sound of piezo pickups, which can accurately reproduce the natural sound of the guitar while also providing a clear and powerful amplified sound.
One of the most important factors contributing to the versatility of piezo pickup acoustic guitars is their wide frequency response. Piezo pickups are able to accurately reproduce the full range of frequencies produced by an acoustic guitar, from the lowest bass notes to the highest treble notes. This makes them ideal for a variety of genres of music, as they can accurately reproduce the sound of any type of guitar playing.
Another factor that contributes to the versatility of piezo pickup acoustic guitars is their ability to produce a clear and powerful amplified sound. Piezo pickups have a high output impedance, which means that they can produce a strong signal without the need for a preamplifier. This makes them ideal for playing in loud environments, such as live performances or recording sessions.
The versatility of piezo pickup acoustic guitars makes them a good choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music. Whether you’re a folk singer-songwriter, a rock guitarist, or a country picker, a piezo pickup acoustic guitar can give you the sound you need.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the versatility of piezo pickup acoustic guitars:
| Characteristic | Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Versatility | Can be used for a variety of genres, from folk to rock to country |
| Wide Frequency Response | Can accurately reproduce the full range of frequencies produced by an acoustic guitar |
| Clear and Powerful Amplified Sound | High output impedance allows for a strong signal without the need for a preamplifier |
11. Popularity
The growing popularity of piezo pickup acoustic guitars is a testament to their unique blend of clear sound, high volume, and feedback resistance. These guitars offer several advantages over traditional acoustic guitars, making them an attractive choice for musicians of all levels.
- Versatility: Piezo pickup acoustic guitars can be used for a wide range of genres, from folk to rock to country. Their clear and natural sound makes them well-suited for both strumming and fingerpicking, and their high volume makes them ideal for live performances.
- Durability: Piezo pickups are very durable and can withstand the rigors of touring and live performance. They are not affected by extreme temperatures or humidity, and they are resistant to physical impact.
- Affordability: Piezo pickup acoustic guitars are becoming increasingly affordable, making them a more accessible option for musicians on a budget.
- Technological advancements: Ongoing advancements in piezo pickup technology have resulted in improved sound quality, increased feedback resistance, and reduced noise. These advancements have made piezo pickup acoustic guitars even more attractive to musicians.
The combination of these advantages makes piezo pickup acoustic guitars an excellent choi
ce for musicians of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first acoustic guitar or a professional musician looking for a versatile and reliable instrument, a piezo pickup acoustic guitar is a great option.
Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar FAQs
This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding piezo pickup acoustic guitars, providing clear and informative answers to common concerns and misconceptions.
Question 1: What are the advantages of piezo pickup acoustic guitars over traditional acoustic guitars?
Piezo pickup acoustic guitars offer several advantages over traditional acoustic guitars, including superior sound quality, increased durability, excellent feedback resistance, and greater versatility.
Question 2: How do piezo pickups work?
Piezo pickups utilize piezoelectric materials that generate an electrical signal when subjected to vibrations. This signal is then amplified and sent to the guitar’s output jack.
Question 3: Are piezo pickup acoustic guitars more expensive than traditional acoustic guitars?
Generally, piezo pickup acoustic guitars are priced higher than traditional acoustic guitars due to the specialized materials and manufacturing processes involved.
Question 4: Can piezo pickup acoustic guitars be used for a variety of musical genres?
Yes, piezo pickup acoustic guitars are highly versatile and can be effectively employed in various musical genres, from folk and country to rock and blues.
Question 5: How durable are piezo pickups?
Piezo pickups are known for their exceptional durability, making them resistant to the rigors of touring and live performances. They can withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and physical impact.
Question 6: What are the potential drawbacks of piezo pickup acoustic guitars?
One potential drawback is the higher cost compared to traditional acoustic guitars. Additionally, some players may prefer the warmer, more resonant sound of traditional acoustic guitars.
Summary: Piezo pickup acoustic guitars offer a unique blend of clear sound, high volume, and feedback resistance, making them a popular choice for musicians seeking a versatile and reliable instrument.
Transition: To delve deeper into the world of piezo pickup acoustic guitars, let’s explore their tonal characteristics and how to choose the right one for your musical needs.
Piezo Pickup Acoustic Guitar Tips
Piezo pickup acoustic guitars offer a unique blend of clear sound, high volume, and feedback resistance. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your piezo pickup acoustic guitar:
Tip 1: Choose the right pickup for your guitar. Piezo pickups come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type of pickup you choose will depend on the size and shape of your guitar, as well as the sound you’re looking for.
Tip 2: Position the pickup correctly. The position of the pickup will affect the sound of your guitar. Experiment with different positions until you find one that gives you the sound you want.
Tip 3: Use a preamp. A preamp can help to boost the signal from your piezo pickup and improve the sound quality. Preamps can also be used to add EQ and other effects to your guitar.
Tip 4: Experiment with different strings. The type of strings you use will also affect the sound of your guitar. Experiment with different strings until you find a set that gives you the sound you want.
Tip 5: Keep your guitar clean. Dirt and grime can build up on your piezo pickup and affect the sound quality. Be sure to clean your guitar regularly with a soft cloth.
Summary: By following these tips, you can get the most out of your piezo pickup acoustic guitar. Piezo pickup acoustic guitars are a great choice for musicians who want a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
Transition: Now that you know how to get the most out of your piezo pickup acoustic guitar, it’s time to start playing!
Conclusion
Piezo pickup acoustic guitars have become increasingly popular among musicians due to their unique blend of clear sound, high volume, and feedback resistance. These guitars utilize piezoelectric materials to convert vibrations into electrical signals, resulting in an accurate and natural sound reproduction.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first acoustic guitar or a professional musician seeking a versatile and reliable instrument, a piezo pickup acoustic guitar is an excellent choice. Their durability, versatility, and affordability make them well-suited for a wide range of musical genres and playing styles.
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