Acoustic-electric guitars offer the best of both worlds, combining the resonance of an acoustic instrument with the versatility of an electric one. When it comes to adjusting the pickup height on a Strat-style acoustic-electric guitar, the considerations are slightly different from their fully electric counterparts. In this article, we’ll explore the factors to consider and debunk the idea of level pickups in the context of acoustic-electric guitars.
The Role of Pickup Height in Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Pickup height plays a similar role in acoustic-electric guitars as it does in fully electric guitars. It influences the interaction between the vibrating strings and the magnetic field of the pickups, affecting the tone, output, and overall performance of the instrument.
Considering Acoustic Resonance
Unlike fully electric guitars, acoustic-electric guitars maintain an acoustic resonance that’s essential to their sound. The primary goal when adjusting pickup height in acoustic-electric guitars is to capture the natural acoustic sound while enhancing its amplification capabilities.
Understanding Level Pickups in Acoustic-Electric Guitars
The concept of level pickups doesn’t translate directly to acoustic-electric guitars. Unlike solid-body electric guitars, the acoustic soundboard and the placement of the pickups can complicate the idea of leveling.
Factors to Consider
When adjusting the pickup height on a Strat-style acoustic-electric guitar:
- Balancing Tone: Focus on achieving a balanced tonal response across all strings. This might involve adjusting the pickup height individually for each string to accommodate their varying characteristics.
- String-to-Pickup Distance: Ensure that the strings are not too close to the pickups, as this can result in unwanted buzzing and interference with the acoustic resonance.
- Avoiding Feedback: Acoustic-electric guitars are susceptible to feedback, especially at high volumes. Adjusting the pickup height can affect the potential for feedback, so strike a balance that minimizes this issue.
Experimentation and Listening
When adjusting the pickup height on a Strat-style acoustic-electric guitar:
- Baseline Position: Start with the manufacturer’s recommended height settings as a starting point.
- String Clearance: Maintain proper clearance between the strings and the pickups to prevent buzzing or interference.
- Listening Carefully: Experiment with different pickup heights while playing the guitar through an amplifier. Listen for changes in tone, sustain, and feedback resistance.
- Striking a Balance: Aim for a setup that captures the natural acoustic sound while enhancing its amplification potential. Ensure that the pickup height doesn’t compromise the acoustic resonance that makes these guitars special.
Adjusting pickup height in a Strat-style acoustic-electric guitar involves a delicate balance between capturing the acoustic sound and optimizing amplification. While the concept of level pickups might not directly apply, the principles of achieving balanced output and tonal response still hold true. By carefully considering the guitar’s acoustic qualities and experimenting with pickup height, you can strike the right balance between preserving the acoustic resonance and enhancing the amplified sound of your instrument.
