Best Acoustic Pickups for Fingerstyle Playing: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right acoustic pickup for fingerstyle playing can significantly enhance your sound and performance. This guide will explore the different types of pickups available, their characteristics, and provide tips to help you find the perfect setup for your playing style.

Introduction to Acoustic Pickups for Fingerstyle Playing

Fingerstyle playing requires a specific sensitivity in sound and tonality, where every note and nuance must be preserved. This guide will detail the best acoustic pickup options to suit the intricacies of fingerstyle guitar playing. The primary types of pickups to consider include Under-Saddle Pickups, Soundboard Transducers, Microphone Pickups, Combination Systems, and Magnetic Pickups.

Under-Saddle Pickups

Under-Saddle Pickups are among the most versatile options for fingerstyle playing. They are installed underneath the saddle of the guitar and capture the vibrations of the strings directly. These pickups provide a clear and balanced sound, making them ideal for intimate and detailed performances. However, they sometimes lack warmth and may not capture the full acoustic character of the instrument.

Soundboard Transducers

Soundboard Transducers, attached to the guitar's soundboard, capture the vibrations of the wood itself. These pickups tend to produce a warmer and more natural tone, often preferred for fingerstyle playing. They offer a natural and resonant sound, which aligns well with the delicate and intricate strumming techniques associated with fingerstyle playing.

Microphone Pickups

Microphone Pickups, whether internal or external, can capture the full range of the guitar's sound, including the nuances from fingerstyle techniques. This option provides the most natural sound but can be prone to feedback in amplified settings. For recording, a small condenser microphone is often used to achieve maximum clarity and detail.

Combination Systems

Combination Systems combine the benefits of Under-Saddle Pickups with Microphones or Transducers. This hybrid approach allows for greater tonal flexibility and the ability to capture the best qualities of both types of pickup. These systems are highly customizable and can be tailored to the specific needs of the player.

Magnetic Pickups

Magnetic Pickups, commonly found in electric guitars, are occasionally used in certain acoustic guitars. They can provide a unique sound but may not capture the full acoustic character of the instrument as effectively as other options. Utilization of magnetic pickups in acoustic guitars is less common, but can add a distinctive touch to the sound.

Choosing the Right Pickup for Live Performance

I prefer the piezo type under the bridge saddle for live performance, as it allows for a simple and direct setup. This can be extended with a condenser microphone, especially when recording. The key is to find a pickup that is easy to use, reliable, and tailored to your specific playing style. It’s essential to experiment with various options to find the one that best meets your needs.

Popular Choices Among Fingerstyle Players

Considering popular fingerstyle guitarists can offer valuable insights into what gear they use. Here are a few notable players and the pickups they prefer:

Sarah Jarosz: She is known for using Sunrise Soundhole Pickups or LR Baggs Anthem systems, which are trendsetting choices for their clarity and warmth. Michael Hedges: He often used magnetic pickups, specifically the Seymour Duncan Woody, which is highly adapted for percussive fingerstyle playing. Richard Thaler: He favors the Fishman Neo-D, which is designed for fingerstyle playing and offers excellent clarity and detail. John Sebastian: He frequently uses the Seymour-Duncan Woody, which is a versatile soundhole pickup that complements fingerstyle playing well. John Fahey: He was known to use various pickups, including the L.R. Baggs M1, which is known for its natural and balanced sound.

Conclusion

The choice of acoustics pickup for fingerstyle playing ultimately depends on what works best for you. Experiment with different options and tailor your setup to your playing style. Whether you prefer Under-Saddle Pickups, Soundboard Transducers, Microphone Pickups, Combination Systems, or Magnetic Pickups, the key is to find a sound that enhances your performance and ensures that every note and nuance is preserved.

Final Thoughts

I use a Seymour Duncan Woody, a soundhole pickup. I generally prefer a clean and simple setup, with no electronics in the guitar. Soundhole pickups are highly versatile and can be adjusted as needed. I also use an iRig pickup for iPad or Android, which offers preamp control and is convenient for recording.