Soundhole covers, often referred to as soundhole plugs or soundhole silencers, are accessories used by acoustic guitarists to modify their instrument’s sound and performance. While these unassuming circular or oval-shaped devices are designed to serve specific functions, many guitarists wonder whether soundhole covers truly work as advertised. In this article, we’ll explore the effectiveness and functionality of soundhole covers to help you understand their practicality and impact on acoustic guitars.
1. Feedback Reduction
One of the primary functions of soundhole covers is feedback reduction. When you amplify an acoustic guitar, especially at higher volumes or in environments with challenging acoustics, it can be prone to feedback—unwanted, high-pitched squeals or howls caused by the interaction between the guitar’s internal microphone or pickup and the amplified sound. Soundhole covers effectively work to mitigate this issue by obstructing or dampening the sound waves that enter the guitar’s soundhole. They help minimize feedback, making them an effective tool for live performances and recordings.
2. Volume Regulation
Soundhole covers can indeed regulate the volume of an acoustic guitar. When inserted into the soundhole, they partially or fully obstruct the opening, limiting the outward projection of sound waves. This reduction in sound projection results in a softer and more controlled volume. Guitarists can use soundhole covers to achieve a quieter sound, which is advantageous for practice sessions in shared spaces or when recording acoustic tracks that require a lower volume.
3. Tonal Preservation
One of the significant advantages of soundhole covers is their ability to preserve the natural tone and resonance of the acoustic guitar. Unlike some other volume control methods, such as using a volume pedal or lowering the guitar’s volume knob, soundhole covers do not interfere with the vibration of the guitar’s soundboard. This means that the acoustic guitar retains its characteristic warm and rich tone while the cover is in place.
4. Versatility in Performance
Soundhole covers offer versatility to guitarists, allowing them to adapt their instrument’s volume and sound projection to different playing environments and scenarios. Guitarists can easily insert or remove the cover to suit specific performance needs, making them a versatile tool for various musical contexts.
5. Reduced Stage Noise
In live performance settings, stage noise can be a challenge due to multiple instruments and microphones contributing to the overall sound. Soundhole covers help reduce the guitar’s contribution to stage noise, allowing sound engineers to have better control over the mix. This can result in a cleaner and more balanced sound for the audience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, soundhole covers do indeed work as advertised, serving essential functions such as feedback reduction, volume regulation, tonal preservation, versatility in performance, and the reduction of stage noise. They are practical accessories for acoustic guitarists, whether you’re a professional musician performing on stage or a hobbyist guitarist looking to practice quietly in shared spaces. Soundhole covers offer a practical solution to common acoustic guitar challenges while preserving the natural beauty of the instrument’s tone.
