Acoustic guitars have a rich, natural sound that can fill a room with warm melodies. But in many musical situations, especially live performances, it becomes necessary to amplify the sound for a larger audience. This is where soundhole pickups come into play. In this article, we will explore how a soundhole pickup works on an acoustic guitar, shedding light on the technology behind it and its role in bridging the acoustic-electric divide.
What is a Soundhole Pickup?
A soundhole pickup is a type of transducer designed to convert the mechanical vibrations of the guitar’s strings into electrical signals that can be amplified and broadcast through speakers or recording equipment. It’s a popular choice among acoustic guitarists who want to maintain the natural acoustic tone of their instrument while achieving greater volume and projection.
How Does a Soundhole Pickup Work?
Soundhole pickups work on the principle of electromagnetism and utilize the same core concept as an electric guitar’s magnetic pickups, albeit with some variations tailored to acoustic guitars.
Here’s how it works:
- Magnetic Field Creation: A soundhole pickup consists of one or more magnets, typically positioned beneath the strings. These magnets create a magnetic field around them.
- Coil Winding: Above the magnets, there is a coil of fine wire. When the guitar strings vibrate, they disrupt the magnetic field within the pickup.
- Electromagnetic Induction: According to Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction, when a magnetic field is altered within a coil of wire, it generates an electrical current. In the case of a soundhole pickup, the vibrating guitar strings disturb the magnetic field created by the magnets.
- Signal Output: This disturbance in the magnetic field induces a small electrical current in the coil. This electrical signal, which corresponds to the vibrations of the strings, is then sent to an amplifier or preamp through a guitar cable.
- Amplification: Once the electrical signal reaches the amplifier or preamp, it is boosted in strength and sent to the speakers, where it is converted back into audible sound.
Benefits of Soundhole Pickups:
- Preservation of Acoustic Tone: Soundhole pickups are known for preserving the natural acoustic tone of the guitar, capturing the nuances of the instrument’s wood, strings, and resonance.
- Feedback Control: They are less prone to feedback issues compared to other types of pickups, making them ideal for live performances.
- Non-invasive Installation: Installing a soundhole pickup is non-invasive and doesn’t require any permanent modifications to the guitar.
- Affordability: Soundhole pickups are generally more affordable than other acoustic amplification solutions, such as internal microphones or under-saddle pickups.
Considerations:
- Feedback: While soundhole pickups are less susceptible to feedback, they are not immune to it. Adjusting the distance between the pickup and the strings can help mitigate feedback issues.
- Tone Control: Many soundhole pickups come with built-in tone controls that allow you to shape your sound to your liking. Experimenting with these controls can help you achieve your desired tone.
- Installation: While easy to install, soundhole pickups do require some care during installation to avoid damage to the guitar’s finish. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional if needed.
Conclusion: Amplifying Acoustic Beauty
Soundhole pickups are a versatile and practical solution for acoustic guitarists looking to amplify their sound without sacrificing the natural tone of their instrument. By harnessing the principles of electromagnetic induction, these pickups capture the essence of your acoustic guitar’s sound and project it to a broader audience. Whether you’re strumming in a coffee shop or rocking out on stage, a soundhole pickup is a valuable tool for bringing your acoustic melodies to life.
