Amplifying the Beauty: How to Amplify An Acoustic Guitar

Amplifying an acoustic guitar opens up possibilities, allowing you to share your music with larger audiences, experiment with different sounds, and enhance your playing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting, this guide will walk you through the process of how to amplify an acoustic guitar, providing in-depth details for each step to ensure a seamless and captivating amplified acoustic sound.

The Basics of Amplification:

Acoustic Guitar Pickup

Soundboard Transducers

Soundboard transducers, also known as contact pickups or piezo pickups, are a popular type of pickup used to amplify acoustic guitars. These pickups capture the vibrations directly from the guitar’s soundboard (top wood) and convert them into an electrical signal that can be amplified and heard through a speaker.

How soundboard transducers work

Soundboard transducers work on the principle of the piezoelectric effect. Piezoelectric materials generate an electric voltage when subjected to mechanical pressure or vibrations. In the case of a soundboard transducer, a thin piezoelectric element attaches to the guitar’s soundboard. When the strings vibrate and the soundboard resonates, the piezo element generates a small electrical signal that corresponds to the acoustic sound of the guitar.

Installation

Installing a soundboard transducer involves placing the pickup element on the surface of the guitar’s soundboard. This can be done using adhesive pads or specialized tape. The pickup is typically positioned near the bridge or on the lower bout of the guitar. Some soundboard transducers come with multiple elements to capture vibrations from different areas of the soundboard, enhancing the pickup’s ability to capture a balanced tone.

Advantages of Soundboard Transducers:

1. Natural Tone: Soundboard transducers capture the natural acoustic sound of the guitar. They reproduce the intricate nuances of the instrument’s soundboard vibrations, resulting in a warm and authentic tone.
2. Feedback Resistance: These pickups are less prone to feedback compared to some other pickup types, making them suitable for high-volume performances and live settings.
3. Simple Installation: Installing a soundboard transducer is relatively straightforward and can often be done without major modifications to the guitar.
4. Minimal Intrusiveness: Since soundboard transducers are usually attached to the exterior of the guitar, they don’t require drilling or alterations to the guitar’s structure.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: Soundboard transducers are often more affordable than other pickup options, making them a popular choice for players on a budget.

Considerations

1. EQ and Tone Shaping: While soundboard transducers capture the natural tone of the guitar, they may require additional EQ adjustments to achieve the desired sound. Many soundboard transducer systems come with built-in preamps or EQ controls to help shape your tone.
2. String Balance: Achieving an even volume across all strings can sometimes be a challenge with soundboard transducers. Proper placement and adjustments are important to ensure a balanced string response.
3. Contact Sensitivity: The pickup’s sensitivity to the placement of your fingers on the strings and the guitar’s body can affect the signal. This can be mitigated with proper technique and by making slight adjustments to your playing style.

Soundboard transducers are a versatile and popular choice for amplifying acoustic guitars. They offer a natural and authentic representation of your instrument’s sound, making them a favorite among acoustic performers who want to retain the character of their guitar while sharing their music with larger audiences.

Soundhole Pickups

Soundhole pickups are a type of magnetic pickup designed to capture the sound of an acoustic guitar by being installed within the soundhole of the instrument. These pickups are a popular choice for players who want a simple and non-invasive way to amplify their acoustic guitar’s sound.

How Soundhole Pickups Work

Soundhole pickups use magnets and coils to capture the vibrations of the guitar strings. They consist of a magnetic core and a coil of wire. When the guitar strings vibrate, they disturb the magnetic field around the pickup, inducing an electrical current in the coil. This electrical signal is then sent to an amplifier or preamp, where it is amplified and converted into audible sound.

Installation

Installing a soundhole pickup is relatively easy and non-permanent. The pickup is typically mounted within the soundhole, usually by clamping onto the guitar’s soundboard or by attaching to the guitar’s top using a small adhesive pad. Some models may require minimal drilling for additional mounting options.

Advantages of Soundhole Pickups

1. Ease of Installation: Soundhole pickups are among the easiest types of pickups to install. They require no major modifications to the guitar, making them a great choice for players who want a non-invasive solution.
2. Balanced Sound: Soundhole pickups tend to capture a balanced sound across all strings, resulting in a consistent volume and tone.
3. Removability: Since soundhole pickups are not permanently affixed to the guitar, they can be easily removed when not in use. This allows you to switch between amplified and acoustic playing.
4. Feedback Resistance: Soundhole pickups are less prone to feedback compared to some other pickup types, making them suitable for live performances.

Considerations

1. Tone Shaping: Soundhole pickups capture a somewhat different tonal character compared to other pickup types like soundboard transducers or under-saddle pickups. Some players prefer this tonal coloration, while others may need to adjust their amplifier settings to achieve the desired sound.
2. Installation Impact: While soundhole pickups are non-invasive, they do require clamping onto the strings, which can affect the guitar’s natural resonance and sustain. Additionally, the clamp may sometimes interfere with playing near the soundhole.
3. String Balance: While soundhole pickups tend to provide balanced volume across strings, some models may exhibit slight variations in string-to-string balance.

Soundhole pickups offer a convenient and easy way to amplify your acoustic guitar’s sound without making significant modifications to the instrument. They are a great option for players who prioritize quick installation and the ability to switch between amplified and acoustic playing. While they may introduce some tonal coloration, many players appreciate the balanced sound and feedback resistance that soundhole pickups provide.

Under-Saddle Pickups

Under-saddle pickups are a widely used type of pickup for amplifying acoustic guitars. They capture the vibrations of the guitar strings directly from underneath the saddle, which is located in the bridge of the guitar. Under-saddle pickups produce a clear and bright tone that emphasizes the natural sound of the strings.

How Under-Saddle Pickups Work

Under-saddle pickups consist of a series of piezo-electric elements embedded within a thin strip that fits under the saddle of the guitar bridge. When the guitar strings vibrate, they create pressure on the saddle, which in turn compresses the piezo elements. This compression generates a small electrical signal that corresponds to the vibrations of the strings. This signal travels to a preamp or amplifier to be amplified and heard.

Installation

Installing an under-saddle pickup often requires removing the saddle and placing the pickup strip underneath it. The installation process can vary depending on the specific pickup model and guitar design. In some cases, the guitar requires minor modifications to the saddle slot or bridge for a proper fit.

Advantages of Under-Saddle Pickups

1. Natural String Sound: Under-saddle pickups accurately reproduce the sound of the guitar strings. They provide a clear and bright tone that retains the natural characteristics of the strings.
2. Feedback Resistance: Under-saddle pickups are less prone to feedback compared to some other pickup types, making them suitable for high-volume performances and live settings.
3. String Balance: Under-saddle pickups tend to offer good string-to-string balance, ensuring that each string is amplified with relatively equal volume.
4. Clean Aesthetics: Since under-saddle pickups are installed beneath the saddle and are not visible from the outside, they do not alter the visual appearance of the guitar.

Considerations

1. Installation Complexity: Installing an under-saddle pickup can be more involved than other pickup types, as it may require adjusting the saddle slot and making sure the pickup strip is properly seated.
2. Impact on Saddle and Tone: The addition of the pickup strip underneath the saddle can affect the guitar’s tonal characteristics and sustain. Some players find that under-saddle pickups may result in a slightly “quacky” or percussive tone, especially when played aggressively.
3. Preamp and EQ: Under-saddle pickups often require a preamp to boost and shape the signal. Many pickups come with built-in preamps that offer EQ controls, volume adjustment, and sometimes feedback reduction features.

Under-saddle pickups are a popular choice for players seeking a clear and articulate amplified sound that closely resembles the natural tone of the guitar strings. While installation can be a bit more involved, many players appreciate the balanced string response and feedback resistance that under-saddle pickups provide. Properly paired with a quality preamp and amplifier, under-saddle pickups can deliver a vibrant and faithful representation of your acoustic guitar’s sound on stage and in recordings.

Preamp

A preamp (short for preamplifier) is a crucial component in the signal chain when amplifying an acoustic guitar. It serves multiple functions, including boosting the weak electrical signal from your guitar’s pickup to a level processable by an amplifier or PA system, shaping the tone of your instrument, and often providing additional features like EQ (equalization) and sometimes even built-in effects. Let’s delve deeper into the details of preamps and their significance in acoustic guitar amplification.

Functions of a Preamp

1. Signal Amplification: The primary function of a preamp is to amplify the low-level electrical signal produced by your guitar’s pickup. Pickup signals are often too weak to be directly sent to an amplifier, so the preamp boosts the signal to a suitable level.
2. Tone Shaping: Many preamps include EQ controls that allow you to adjust the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies of your amplified sound. This enables you to tailor your tone to match your playing style, the venue, and your personal preferences.
3. Feedback Control: Some preamps come with features like notch filters, phase inversion, or feedback reduction circuits that help mitigate unwanted feedback, especially in live performance situations.
4. Impedance Matching: A preamp helps match the impedance of your guitar’s pickup to the input impedance of the amplifier or PA system, ensuring optimal signal transfer and minimizing loss of tone and signal quality.
5. Effects and Enhancements: Many acoustic guitar preamps offer built-in effects such as reverb, chorus, delay, and even compression. These effects can add depth and character to your sound without the need for external pedals.

Types of Preamps

1. Onboard Preamps: Some acoustic guitars come with built-in preamps integrated into the guitar’s body. These preamps often include a control panel with knobs for volume, tone shaping, and sometimes effects. Onboard preamps are convenient and provide a clean aesthetic.
2. External Preamps: These standalone preamp units can be used with any acoustic guitar equipped with a pickup. They offer more advanced features, flexibility, and sometimes higher-quality components than onboard preamps.

Connecting and Using a Preamp

1. Connection: The preamp is typically connected between your guitar’s pickup and the amplifier or PA system. Most preamps have input and output jacks for easy connectivity.
2. Setup: Begin by setting the volume control on your guitar to a comfortable level, then adjust the input gain on the preamp to achieve a clean and strong signal without clipping (distortion). Use the EQ controls to shape your desired tone.
3. Effects: If your preamp includes effects, experiment with them to enhance your sound. Be mindful of not overpowering the natural acoustic tone of your guitar.

Considerations

1. Quality: A high-quality preamp can significantly impact your amplified sound. Investing in a reputable preamp can improve tone, reduce noise, and provide better control over your sound.
2. Matching: Ensure that the preamp you choose is compatible with your guitar’s pickup type and the amplification system you plan to use.
3. Power Source: Some preamps require batteries or an external power source. Be sure to have the necessary power supply on hand for performances.

A preamp is a crucial tool for shaping and amplifying the sound of your acoustic guitar. It allows you to optimize your tone, control feedback, and even add effects. Whether integrated into your guitar or used as an external unit, a well-chosen preamp can greatly enhance your amplified acoustic guitar experience and help you achieve the desired sound for your performances.

Amplifier

An amplifier, often referred to as an “amp,” is a crucial piece of equipment for amplifying and projecting the sound of your acoustic guitar to a larger audience. It takes the electrical signal generated by your guitar’s pickup and preamp and transforms it into audible sound through a speaker. Amplifiers come in various sizes, types, and configurations, each tailored to different playing situations and styles.

Types of Amplifiers

1. Acoustic Guitar Amplifiers: These amps are specifically designed to reproduce the natural sound of acoustic guitars. They often feature EQ controls to shape your tone, effects like reverb and chorus for added ambiance, and sometimes multiple input channels for blending different sources like pickups and microphones.
2. Combo Amplifiers: Combo amps combine the amplifier and the speaker in a single unit. They are convenient and portable, making them popular for small to medium-sized venues and practice sessions.
3. Acoustic Amplifier Head and Speaker Cabinet: Some players prefer the flexibility of separate amplifier heads and speaker cabinets. This setup allows you to mix and match different components to achieve your desired sound.
4. PA Systems: For larger venues and performances, you might use a full PA system, which includes multiple speakers, a mixing console, and additional processing equipment. Acoustic guitars can be plugged directly into the PA system, often through a direct box (DI), which converts the guitar’s signal into a format suitable for the PA.

Check out my article: The Ultimate Review of the Best Amp for Acoustic Guitar for Every Musician.

Features and Considerations

1. Wattage: The wattage of an amplifier determines its power output and volume level. Choose an appropriate wattage based on your playing environment. Smaller amps are suitable for practice and intimate settings, while higher-wattage amps are better for larger stages.
2. EQ and Tone Controls: Most acoustic guitar amplifiers come with EQ controls for adjusting bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. These controls help you shape your tone to match your guitar and playing style.
3. Effects: Amplifiers often include built-in effects such as reverb, chorus, and delay. These effects can enhance your sound and add depth to your performance.
4. Inputs and Channels: Amplifiers with multiple input channels allow you to connect different sources simultaneously, such as a pickup and a microphone. This enables you to blend your guitar’s amplified sound with the natural resonance of a microphone-captured sound.
5. Feedback Suppression: Some amplifiers feature feedback suppression technology or notch filters to help control unwanted feedback, which can be especially useful in live settings.
6. Portability: Consider the size and weight of the amplifier, especially if you’ll be transporting it frequently.

Using an Amplifier

1. Connection: Connect your preamp or direct box output to the amplifier’s input using a high-quality instrument cable.
2. Setting Up: Start with all EQ settings flat (at 12 o’clock) and adjust as needed to achieve your desired tone. Experiment with effects and volume levels to find the right balance for the venue.
3. Positioning: Place the amplifier where you can hear yourself clearly, but also ensure the sound is projected towards the audience. Be mindful of feedback-prone areas and adjust your positioning accordingly.

An amplifier is an essential tool for amplifying and enhancing the sound of your acoustic guitar. Choosing the right type of amplifier and understanding its features will help you achieve the best possible sound for your performances, whether you’re playing in small venues, recording sessions, or large concert stages.

Steps to Amplify Your Acoustic Guitar

Install the Pickup

Installing a pickup is a crucial step in amplifying your acoustic guitar’s sound. The type of pickup you’ve chosen will determine the installation process. For soundboard transducers, carefully adhere the pickup elements onto the surface of the guitar’s soundboard, ensuring proper placement for optimal vibration capture. If you use an under-saddle pickup, you’ll need to remove the saddle and place the pickup strip underneath it, making sure to properly seat it. On the other hand, soundhole pickups install more easily – they sit within the soundhole and often attach to the guitar’s strings or top using a clamping mechanism or adhesive pad.

Whichever pickup type you’re working with, following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential to ensure proper installation and optimal performance. If you’re unsure about the installation process, seek assistance from a professional luthier or guitar technician. This will ensure the correct pickup installation and will not negatively impact your guitar’s playability or sound quality.

Connect the Pickup to the Preamp

Once your pickup is properly installed, the next step is to connect it to a preamp. If your pickup requires a separate preamp unit, use the provided cables to establish the connection. Ensure that the connections are secure and properly seated to avoid any signal loss or interference. The preamp serves as a crucial intermediary between your guitar’s pickup and the amplifier, allowing you to control the signal strength and tonal characteristics before it reaches the amplification stage.

If your pickup comes with a built-in preamp, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any necessary adjustments or settings. Whether using an external preamp or a built-in one, this connection step ensures that the electrical signal from your guitar is properly conditioned and ready for further amplification and tone shaping.

Connect to the Amplifier

With your pickup and preamp properly connected, it’s time to link your acoustic guitar’s signal to an amplifier. Using a high-quality instrument cable, establish a secure connection between the output of your preamp and the input of the amplifier. Use a cable in good condition and that both ends plug in securely to prevent any signal interruptions or unwanted noise.

This connection bridges the gap between your acoustic guitar’s analog signal and the amplification system, allowing the amplifier to take the enhanced signal and project it through a speaker for audible sound. Before turning on the amplifier, double-check all connections to guarantee a clean and reliable signal transmission. The amplifier is the final link in the chain that transforms your guitar’s subtle vibrations into a rich and amplified sonic experience.

Adjust Your Settings

Fine-tuning your settings is a critical step in achieving the desired amplified sound for your acoustic guitar. Begin by setting all EQ controls on both the preamp and amplifier to their neutral or flat positions (usually at the 12 o’clock position). This ensures that you’re starting with a balanced foundation. As you play your guitar, make subtle adjustments to the EQ controls, listening carefully to the changes in tone. Experiment with boosting or cutting the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies to find the sweet spot that complements your playing style and the venue’s acoustics.

Take your time to explore different settings and pay attention to how they interact with your guitar’s natural characteristics. Additionally, adjust the overall volume level to ensure a well-balanced and audible sound without overpowering other instruments or vocals. Keep in mind that your ideal settings might vary depending on the specific pickup type, your guitar’s tonal qualities, and the sonic environment you’re in. Regularly experimenting with your settings during rehearsals and soundchecks will help you become more comfortable with finding the perfect sound for your amplified acoustic guitar.

Tips for Optimal Amplification:

Feedback Prevention

• Stand at a comfortable distance from the amplifier to reduce the risk of feedback.
• Use a soundhole cover to reduce acoustic resonance and potential feedback.
• Experiment with the placement of your guitar and amplifier to find a sweet spot.

Soundcheck

• Perform a thorough sound check before your performance to ensure a balanced and clear sound.
• Adjust volume levels, EQ settings, and effects as needed based on the venue’s acoustics.

Experiment with Effects

• Use effects like reverb to add depth, chorus for a spacious sound, and delay for an ambient feel.
• Apply effects subtly to enhance your sound without overpowering the natural acoustic tone.

Blend with Microphones

• Position a microphone in front of your guitar’s soundhole or at the 12th fret to capture the instrument’s natural resonance.
• Blend the microphone signal with your pickup signal for a rich, dynamic sound.

Conclusion

Amplifying an acoustic guitar is a skill that adds dimension to your musical journey. By understanding the intricacies of pickups, preamps, amplifiers, and their optimal usage, you can achieve a captivating amplified acoustic sound that preserves the instrument’s natural beauty while expanding your sonic possibilities. Remember, patience and experimentation are key as you fine-tune your amplified setup to match your unique playing style and preferences. Embrace the art of amplification, and let your amplified acoustic guitar resonate with audiences far and wide.

Also, check out our other useful articles:

• Mastering the Art of How to Mic an Acoustic Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide
• Unveiling the Secrets of Condenser Microphones: Ideal Tools for Capturing Acoustic Guitar
• A Comprehensive Guide on How to Mic a Guitar Amp for Stunning Sound
• Best Pedal Guitar Tuners: A Comprehensive Comparison Guide

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Chadwick Becks

I have two degrees in guitar performance and was privileged to study under Aaron Shearer, Tom Kikta, David Skantar, Ken Karsh, Tim Bedner, and currently Christopher Berg. Outside my editorial work on this blog, I teach full-time across many genres including classical, jazz, blues, rock, funk, and metal.