There are two types of pickups that fit on acoustic guitars. The first type is magnetoelectric, the second is piezoceramic. The installation of each of them has its own characteristics.
Instructions
Step 1
The principle of operation and design of magnetoelectric pickups are similar to those used in electric guitars. The difference lies in the frequency response. For this reason, it is best not to use electric guitar pickups on acoustic instruments. In addition, magneto-electric pickups should only be fitted to guitars with metal strings.
Step 2
If you are installing a magneto-electric pickup, decide on its design: single (single) or coupled (humbacker). The first type of construction is a single coil and is more transparent sounding, but at the same time has a little background and less output signal. Only active single-sensors have no background, where this problem is solved with additional circuits. The price of active pickups is several times higher.
Step 3
The second type of construction, the humbacker, consists of two inductors, due to which such pickups have no background. They are distinguished by a more powerful sound signal and a thick and dense sound.
Step 4
Typically, magneto-electric pickups are installed in a hole on the top deck, also called a receptacle. Mounting is carried out using special struts that hold the pickup in the guitar deck.
Step 5
The second type of pickups is piezoceramic. Due to the piezoelectric crystal, the mechanical vibration is converted into an electrical signal. There are two types of such pickups: removable ("pill") and stationary.
Step 6
The removable pickup is installed using a special Velcro. It can be installed either on the outside of the instrument or inside through a hole in the deck (socket). Choose the option that suits you best. A richer sound will be obtained by installing the pickup inside the guitar.
Step 7
Installation of a stationary piezoceramic pickup is carried out under the saddle of the guitar. The procedure requires experience, therefore, in the absence of it, it is better to entrust the installation to a professional.
