Sound hole covers, also known as soundhole plugs or soundhole silencers, are accessories that guitarists often use to modify the volume and sound projection of their acoustic guitars. Many musicians wonder if placing a sound hole cover in their guitar will make it quieter. In this article, we will explore the effects of sound hole covers on acoustic guitar volume and clarify their impact on the instrument’s sound.
1. Reducing Sound Projection
Sound hole covers are primarily designed to reduce the sound projection of an acoustic guitar. When you insert a sound hole cover into your guitar, it obstructs the soundhole, limiting the outward projection of sound waves. This can indeed make the guitar less audible to the listener, especially in a live performance or recording setting.
2. Lowering Volume in Close Proximity
If you are playing your acoustic guitar with a sound hole cover in place, the volume perceived by someone directly in front of the guitar will be noticeably lower compared to playing without a cover. This can be advantageous in scenarios where you need to play quietly, such as when practicing in a shared space or recording in a studio.
3. Controlling Feedback
Sound hole covers can also help control feedback when amplifying an acoustic guitar. By reducing the guitar’s sound projection, they limit the amount of acoustic sound that reaches the internal microphone or pickup, minimizing the potential for feedback, particularly at high volumes.
4. Preservation of Tone
One significant advantage of using a sound hole cover is that it preserves the guitar’s natural tone and resonance. Unlike some other methods of volume control, such as using a volume pedal or lowering the guitar’s volume knob, sound hole covers do not interfere with the vibration of the guitar’s soundboard. As a result, the acoustic guitar retains its characteristic warm and rich tone when using a sound hole cover.
5. Versatility and Adaptability
Sound hole covers offer versatility to guitarists, allowing them to adapt their instrument’s volume and sound projection to different playing environments and scenarios. This adaptability can be particularly valuable for musicians who perform in various settings, from intimate acoustic sessions to live band performances.
Conclusion
In summary, a sound hole cover can indeed make an acoustic guitar quieter by reducing its sound projection. This reduction in volume is especially noticeable when the guitar is played in close proximity to the soundhole cover or when amplified. While it may limit the guitar’s volume, it also offers benefits such as feedback control, preservation of tone, and adaptability to different performance settings.
Ultimately, the decision to use a sound hole cover depends on your specific needs and preferences as a guitarist. Whether you want to practice quietly, control feedback during a live performance, or achieve a particular tonal effect, a sound hole cover can be a valuable accessory that enhances your acoustic guitar’s versatility and functionality.
