Best Piezo Pickup For Electric Guitar (2024 Update)
For electric guitarists looking to amplify their sound, a quality piezo pickup can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for your needs? When shopping for the best piezo pickup for your electric guitar, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, look at the pickup’s sensitivity and output level. Higher sensitivity and output will provide a louder, fuller sound. Consider how much amplification your guitar requires. Next, determine what tone you want. Ceramic and crystal piezo pickups produce brighter tones, while graphite ones offer a smoother, darker sound. The pickup’s EQ is also a factor, with preamps providing tone shaping options.
Placement is another element, with under-saddle and soundhole pickups providing different sounds. An under-saddle pickup captures the guitar’s natural acoustic resonance, while a soundhole pickup produces more direct string vibration. Lastly, examine the pickup’s durability and feedback rejection. Does it allow flexibility and withstand stage performance?
When finding the ideal piezo pickup, ask yourself: What tone and volume am I looking for? How much EQ control do I need? Do I want my acoustic’s natural sound or enhanced string articulation? Where will I mount the pickup to get my desired tone? How durable must it be for my playing style? Considering these questions will guide you towards the perfect pickup for your musical needs. With the right piezo pickup, your electric guitar’s voice will shine through any amp or PA system.
10 Best Piezo Pickup For Electric Guitar
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1
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The product is ideal for improving the sound quality of acoustic guitars by adding preamp EQ, piezo pickup, and tuner.
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2
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Ideal for amplifying sound of acoustic instruments such as guitar, ukulele, violin, mandolin, banjo, cello, kalimba and harp.
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3
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Ideal for adding volume and tone to a homemade or custom-built electric guitar.
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4
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The product is ideal for amplifying sound from string instruments such as guitar, violin, banjo, mandolin and ukulele.
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5
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Ideal for upgrading vintage-style Telecaster guitars with a versatile, high-output pickup that integrates seamlessly with existing hardware.
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6
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This product is ideal for amplifying sound from acoustic guitars and drums using piezo technology and long leads.
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7
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It is ideal for those who want to build their own piezo pickups and control the volume of their homemade cigar box guitars.
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8
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The product is ideal for picking up acoustic guitar sounds with high sensitivity, using a piezo transducer placed under the saddle.
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9
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The product is ideal for amplifying the sound of acoustic guitars with nylon strings.
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10
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Ideal for amplifying acoustic instruments with a stick-on pickup and volume control.
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1. Kmise 5 Band Acoustic Guitar Preamp Eq Equalizer Piezo Pickup Tuner Amplifier Lcd Mic 1 Set
Introducing the 5 Band EQ Equalizer with Piezo Pickup Line – the perfect accessory for guitar enthusiasts who want to elevate their sound quality to the next level. Measuring approximately 9.8 * 5.8 * 4.0cm, this pickup is compact and easy to use.
Please note that this product requires a 6F22 9V battery which is not included in the package. However, once you have the battery installed, you'll be able to spend less time tweaking controls and more time playing.
Featuring volume, bass, middle, treble, and pres control knobs, this preamp allows you to adjust your sound to your desired preferences. With its 5-band equalizer, you'll be able to fine-tune the output to create a rich and dynamic sound.
In addition to the 5 Band EQ Equalizer and Piezo Pickup Line, the package comes with 8 mounting screws, a microphone, and a battery box. These additional items make it easy to set up and use the preamp right away.
2. Acoustic Soundpro Transducer For Multiple Instruments
Introducing the versatile and easy-to-use volume control knob for various musical instruments. This product has been designed to cater to most instruments, including guitars, ukuleles, violins, and more.
The volume control knob comes with a mini design that makes it easy to install. It can be conveniently stuck near the sound hole with the self-adhesive feature and can be reused multiple times. The product comes with 4 adhesive stickers that can be used to attach the knob to different instruments.
In addition to the volume control knob, the package also includes a 10 ft amplifier cable with a standard 1/4" connector. This ensures that you have enough length and flexibility to connect the knob to your instrument and amplifier.
One of the most significant advantages of this volume control knob is its ability to produce clear, crisp, and high-quality sound. The product has been designed to keep squeal feedback at bay, ensuring that you enjoy uninterrupted music.
3. Electric Cigar Box Guitar Pickup Set
This pre-wired electric guitar pickup harness is an all-in-one solution for 6-string instruments. It comes with both tone and volume control, as well as a straight jack. The pickup is mounted in a plastic mounting ring, which makes for easy installation.
This product offers an affordable way to add a magnetic pickup to cigar box guitars. It includes one set, which consists of one pickup, pre-wired capacitors, two screws, and two knobs (one volume and one tone).
The pickup harness is designed to make the installation process as simple as possible. The pre-wired capacitors and mounting ring allow for a quick and easy setup. The inclusion of both tone and volume control gives players flexibility in shaping their sound.
The package comes with all necessary parts, so there's no need to purchase additional components. With its ease of installation and affordable price, this pickup harness is an excellent option for any musician looking to enhance their guitar's sound.
4. Traderplus 2pcs Piezo Contact Microphone Pickup For Guitar Violin Banjo Mandolin Ukulele
Introducing the professional piezo contact microphone pickup with a 1/4" jack and a 10.6" cable. This contact microphone is designed to pick up sound by being in direct contact with the sound source, making it an excellent choice for musicians who want to amplify their instruments.
One of the benefits of using a contact microphone is that it can eliminate external sound interference and is not influenced by sound reflections from nearby objects. This means that you can achieve a clean and clear sound without any unwanted background noise.
The piezo contact microphone pickup is easy to use – simply plug it into your amp, bass amp, or other recording equipment, and you're ready to go. You can use it to amplify a variety of instruments, including guitars, mandolins, banjos, violins, ukuleles, violas, and cellos.
To make installation even easier, this microphone comes with double-sided tape and self-adhesive velcro for multiple mounting options. This means that you can attach it to your instrument in a way that is most convenient for you.
5. Fishman Vt Powerbridge Pickup For Vintage Tele Style Guitar
Fishman, a renowned brand in the music industry, is committed to providing musicians with the most authentic sound possible when they connect their instruments. Their Power Bridge pickups are the perfect solution for electric guitarists who crave a range of acoustic and hybrid acoustic/electric sounds on their Strat, Tele, and Les Paul guitars.
With Fishman's Power Bridge pickups, guitarists can explore an extensive range of sounds that would typically be impossible to achieve on an electric guitar. The pickups offer a versatile palette of sounds, from warm and mellow acoustics to bright and punchy tones, all while retaining the familiarity of an electric guitar.
While the Fishman Power chip is recommended for optimal performance, it is not necessary for all Power Bridge models. The pickups are easy to install and can be used with any standard 9-volt battery.
6. Timesetl 15pcs Piezo Pickup 27mm Piezo Amplifiers Discs With 13" Leads For Acoustic Guitar Drum
This pre-wired piezo pickup is a high-quality, durable, and reliable product that is perfect for a variety of applications. Made of both brass and ceramic, it is temperature resistant and has a long service life. The small and lightweight size of the piezo pickup plate (with a diameter of 27mm and thickness of 0.4mm) makes it easy to handle and install. Additionally, the wire length of 33mm (13 inches) provides ample room for flexibility.
The resonant frequency of this piezo pickup is 4.6 +/- 0.5 KHz, with a resonant impedance of 300 ohms max. This allows for high sensitivity and low power consumption, providing superior performance in any setting.
This pre-wired piezo pickup is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a wide variety of applications. It is ideal for use in cigar box guitars, foot stompers, and other homemade instruments for sound and vibration detection. Additionally, it can be used as touch-sensors, electronic drum triggers, buzzers, and even for creating your own contact mics.
This product is incredibly easy to use, and even beginners can install and operate it without any trouble. It is also compatible with a wide range of other devices, including watches, cameras, phones, electronic toys, and computers.
7. Cigar Box Guitar Piezo Pickup Kit.
The cigar box guitar is a unique instrument that has gained popularity over the years. If you're a beginner looking to electrify your homemade instrument, this kit is perfect for you. It includes all the necessary parts to help you plug it into an amplifier.
The kit features a long-shaft Neutrik mono jack that effectively penetrates cigar box sides, making it ideal for builders who want to achieve a professional look. The kit also comes with detailed instructions and wiring diagrams to guide you through the installation process.
The high-quality parts included in this kit have been tried and tested by thousands of builders worldwide, giving you the confidence that you're getting a reliable product. With this kit, you can easily turn your homemade instrument into an electrified masterpiece that's ready to take on the stage.
8. Trans Sens Pickup For Acoustic Guitars
The guitar enthusiasts and luthiers out there will be pleased to know that this product is a high-performance and durable replacement part that reproduces the perfect guitar sound. This product is an exceptional choice for those who love to DIY their guitars.
The product boasts high sensitivity and overdrive transmission, ensuring that there is minimal noise during use. It is incredibly easy to use with a standard 2.5mm jack, and the cable is stable and safe to use.
Furthermore, the product is designed to be long-lasting and can withstand frequent use. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for those who use their guitars regularly and need a reliable replacement part.
9. Kna Pickups Portable Piezo Nylon String Guitar Pickup (Ng-1)
The nylon-string guitar is known for its rich and natural sound, and now you can enhance that sound with this innovative product. Designed to deliver the natural sound of your guitar without any modification to the instrument, this product is a must-have for any musician looking to elevate their sound.
One of the best things about this product is that it requires no modification to your guitar. You won't have to drill any holes or make any permanent changes to your instrument. Instead, the wooden sensor casing is lightweight and unobtrusive, making it easy to install and remove as needed.
Whether you prefer to use the product all the time or only on occasion, you'll appreciate the fact that it is detachable. You can easily remove it and store it when not in use, or leave it installed on your guitar for quick and easy access.
Another great feature of this product is that it comes with a 10' foot detachable cable. This gives you plenty of length to move around and find the perfect position for optimal sound. Plus, you can easily detach the cable when you're finished using the product, making it easy to pack away and transport.
10. Kna Pickups Universal Stick-On Piezo Acoustic Instrument Pickup With Volume Control (Up-2)
The UP-2 Acoustic Guitar Pickup with Volume Control is an excellent choice for musicians who are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use pickup for their acoustic instruments. With its universal piezo design, it can safely and easily be installed on the surface of any acoustic guitar, providing a natural and responsive sound quality.
One of the key features of this pickup is its built-in mini potentiometer, which allows musicians to easily control their volume from the stage. This is a particularly useful feature for musicians who perform live, as it gives them greater control over their sound and ensures that they can be heard clearly without having to worry about any unwanted feedback or distortion.
Another great feature of the UP-2 pickup is its detachable cable, which enables it to remain securely in place even during storage. This ensures that musicians can easily transport their instruments without having to worry about damaging the pickup or losing any of its components.
Best Piezo Pickup For Electric Guitar FAQs
Are there any specific brands or models of piezo pickups that are known to work well with certain types of electric guitars?
Piezo pickups are a popular alternative to magnetic pickups and are commonly used in acoustic-electric guitars. When it comes to finding the right piezo pickup for your electric guitar, there are a few factors to consider, including the type of guitar you have, the sound you're looking for, and your budget.
Some brands that are known for producing high-quality piezo pickups include Fishman, LR Baggs, and Shadow. These brands offer a range of options to choose from, including undersaddle pickups, soundboard transducers, and combination systems.
In terms of compatibility with certain types of electric guitars, it's important to consider the size and shape of the pickup. Some piezo pickups are designed specifically for acoustic guitars and may not fit properly in an electric guitar. However, there are also pickups that are designed to work with both acoustic and electric guitars.
Ultimately, the best way to find the right piezo pickup for your electric guitar is to do your research, read reviews, and try out different options to see which one sounds and feels the best for your playing style and musical preferences.
Are there any specific techniques or tips for optimizing the performance of a piezo pickup on an electric guitar?
Yes, there are several techniques and tips for optimizing the performance of a piezo pickup on an electric guitar. Here are some of them:
1. Adjust the saddle height: The height of the saddle can affect the sensitivity and output of the piezo pickup. Adjust the saddle height until you find the sweet spot where the pickup is most responsive.
2. Use a preamp: Piezo pickups have a high impedance output, which can result in a weak and thin sound. A preamp can boost the signal and add warmth and depth to the sound.
3. Experiment with EQ settings: Piezo pickups can sound harsh or brittle, especially in the high frequencies. Experiment with EQ settings to find the right balance of frequencies.
4. Use a compressor: A compressor can even out the dynamics of the piezo pickup, making the sound more consistent and controlled.
5. Use a blend system: A blend system allows you to mix the piezo pickup with a magnetic pickup, giving you a wider range of tones and more flexibility.
Overall, optimizing the performance of a piezo pickup requires experimentation and patience. Try different combinations of techniques and settings until you find the sound that works best for you.
Can a piezo pickup be used in conjunction with a magnetic pickup?
Yes, a piezo pickup can be used in conjunction with a magnetic pickup. In fact, it's common for many guitars to have both types of pickups installed to provide a wider range of tonal options.
Piezo pickups work by converting the physical vibrations of the guitar's strings into electrical signals, while magnetic pickups use a magnet to create an electromagnetic field that picks up the strings' vibrations.
When used together, the two types of pickups can provide a fuller and more complex sound. The magnetic pickup can capture the natural tone and character of the guitar, while the piezo pickup can add a brighter, more acoustic-like quality to the sound.
Many guitarists use a blend of the two pickups to achieve their desired sound. This can be done by using a switch or a blend knob to adjust the volume of each pickup, or by running each pickup through a separate amplifier or effects chain.
Overall, using both a piezo and magnetic pickup can be a great way to expand your tonal options and create a unique sound.
Can a piezo pickup be used to amplify an acoustic guitar?
Yes, a piezo pickup can be used to amplify an acoustic guitar. In fact, piezo pickups have become a popular choice for amplifying acoustic guitars because they capture the natural sound of the instrument without adding any unwanted noise or distortion.
Piezo pickups work by converting the vibrations of the guitar's soundboard into an electrical signal that can be amplified. They are typically placed either under the saddle or on the bridge of the guitar, and they are designed to pick up the vibrations of the strings as they are played.
The signal from the piezo pickup can then be sent to an amplifier or a PA system, allowing the acoustic guitar to be heard over other instruments in a live performance or recording.
It's important to note that while piezo pickups can provide a clear and natural sound, they may not be suitable for all playing styles or genres of music. Some players prefer the warmer, more colorful sound of a microphone, while others prefer the clarity of a piezo pickup. Ultimately, the choice of pickup will depend on the individual player's preferences and needs.
How do piezo pickups differ from traditional magnetic pickups?
Piezo pickups and traditional magnetic pickups are two different types of pickups used in electric guitars. Piezo pickups use the piezoelectric effect to convert mechanical vibrations into an electrical signal, whereas traditional magnetic pickups use a magnet and coil to detect the vibrations of the strings.
Piezo pickups are known for their ability to capture the natural acoustic sound of an instrument, making them popular for use in acoustic-electric guitars. They also have a wider frequency response than magnetic pickups, allowing them to capture a greater range of sound. However, piezo pickups can sometimes produce a harsh and brittle tone that lacks the warmth and depth of traditional magnetic pickups.
On the other hand, magnetic pickups are known for their ability to produce a warm and rich tone that is beloved by many guitarists. They are also more versatile than piezo pickups, allowing players to achieve a wide range of sounds through the use of various pickup configurations and effects.
Overall, the choice between piezo pickups and traditional magnetic pickups comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the player.
How does the installation of a piezo pickup differ from a magnetic pickup?
Piezo pickups and magnetic pickups are two common types of pickups used in guitars to amplify the sound. The installation process for each type of pickup differs significantly.
Magnetic pickups are attached to the guitar's body with screws. They require a magnetic field to function properly, so they are usually placed near the guitar's strings. The installation process usually involves removing the guitar's strings, drilling holes for the screws, and attaching the pickup to the guitar's body. The process can be done quickly and easily, and most guitarists can do it themselves.
Piezo pickups, on the other hand, are installed underneath the guitar's bridge. They are usually attached with adhesive or held in place with a pressure-fit. Piezo pickups work by converting the vibrations of the guitar's strings into electrical signals, and they are often used in acoustic guitars. The installation process can be more complicated than that of magnetic pickups, and it usually requires the help of a professional.
In summary, the installation process for a magnetic pickup involves attaching the pickup to the guitar's body with screws, while the installation process for a piezo pickup involves placing the pickup underneath the guitar's bridge and attaching it with adhesive or pressure-fit.
How does the sound of a piezo pickup compare to a magnetic pickup?
Piezo pickups and magnetic pickups are two different types of pickups used in guitars that produce different sounds. A magnetic pickup uses a magnet and a coil to detect the vibration of the strings and convert it into an electrical signal. This type of pickup produces a warm and fat sound with a lot of sustain, making it ideal for rock, blues and metal genres.
On the other hand, a piezo pickup uses a crystal or ceramic material that responds to pressure changes, such as those caused by the vibration of the strings. This type of pickup produces a bright and clear sound with a lot of attack and presence, making it ideal for acoustic and jazz genres.
Overall, the sound of a piezo pickup is more natural and transparent, while the sound of a magnetic pickup is more colored and saturated. The choice between the two types of pickups depends on personal preference and the intended use of the guitar. Some guitars even have both types of pickups installed, allowing players to switch between them and achieve different sounds.
What are the benefits of using a piezo pickup for electric guitar?
A piezo pickup is a type of transducer that is commonly used in electric guitars. One of the main benefits of using a piezo pickup is that it produces a more natural and acoustic-like sound compared to traditional magnetic pickups. This is because piezo pickups are designed to capture the vibrations of the guitar strings as they resonate through the guitar's body, rather than just the magnetic field generated by the strings.
Another benefit of using a piezo pickup is that it can provide a wider frequency response than traditional pickups, meaning that it can capture more of the nuances and subtleties of the guitar's sound. Additionally, piezo pickups are often more resistant to feedback, which can be a problem with traditional pickups in certain situations.
Finally, piezo pickups can be used in combination with magnetic pickups to create unique and versatile sounds. This is because each type of pickup captures different aspects of the guitar's sound, and by blending them together, you can achieve a wider range of tonal options. Overall, using a piezo pickup can enhance the sound and versatility of an electric guitar, making it a popular choice for many guitarists.
What are the top-rated piezo pickups for electric guitars?
Piezo pickups are a popular choice among guitarists who want to achieve a natural and acoustic-like sound from their electric guitars. Here are some of the top-rated piezo pickups for electric guitars:
1. LR Baggs Anthem: This pickup system combines a piezo pickup with a microphone to capture the guitar's natural acoustic sound. It is known for its warm, full-bodied tone and excellent feedback resistance.
2. Fishman Powerbridge: This piezo pickup is designed to replace the bridge on a Stratocaster-style guitar. It delivers a clear and natural acoustic sound, and can be used in combination with magnetic pickups for added versatility.
3. Graphtech Ghost: This piezo pickup system is designed to be easily installed on most electric guitars. It offers a wide range of tonal options, from bright and percussive to warm and mellow.
4. K&K Pure Mini: This piezo pickup system is designed to be mounted inside the guitar, under the bridge plate. It offers a natural and balanced sound, and is known for its excellent feedback resistance.
5. Shadow Nanoflex: This piezo pickup system uses flexible sensors that are mounted under the bridge saddle. It delivers a warm and natural acoustic sound, and is compatible with most acoustic and electric guitars.
Overall, the choice of piezo pickup will depend on your personal preferences and the type of music you play. It's always a good idea to try out different pickups to find the one that best suits your needs.
What factors should be considered when choosing a piezo pickup for electric guitar?
When choosing a piezo pickup for electric guitar, there are several factors that one should consider. Firstly, the type of guitar and the specific sound that one is looking to achieve should be taken into account. Different piezo pickups have different tonal characteristics, and some may be better suited for certain genres of music or playing styles.
Secondly, the quality of the pickup is important. A high-quality pickup will provide better sound quality, increased sensitivity and responsiveness, and a longer lifespan.
Thirdly, the installation process should also be considered. Some piezo pickups require extensive modification to the guitar, while others can be easily installed without any major changes.
Lastly, the budget is also an important factor. Piezo pickups can range in price, and it is important to choose one that fits within your budget while still providing the desired sound quality and features.
Overall, it is important to carefully consider all of these factors before choosing a piezo pickup for electric guitar to ensure that the best possible sound and playing experience is achieved.
