The Ultimate Guide to Acoustic Guitar Amplification Systems for Stage Performance

Acoustic guitar amplification systems for stage performance are the unsung heroes of live music. They bridge the gap between an acoustic guitar’s intimate sound and the demands of a live venue. As any gigging musician knows, reproducing an acoustic guitar’s warm, nuanced tones on stage presents unique challenges. Whether contending with noisy crowds, blending with a full band, or filling a spacious concert hall, the right amplification system is crucial for preserving your guitar’s natural voice while ensuring it cuts through the mix. This guide delves into the world of acoustic guitar amplification systems for stage performance. It explores everything from specialized acoustic amps to preamps and PA setups. I’ll help you navigate these options to find the perfect solution for your live sound, regardless of your experience level or venue size.

Acoustic guitar amplification is fundamentally different from electric guitar amplification. Understanding these differences is key to achieving great live sound. Unlike electric guitars, which rely entirely on pickups and amplifiers to produce their sound, acoustic guitars have their own natural resonance and tone that needs to be preserved and enhanced.

The primary goal of acoustic guitar amplification is to faithfully reproduce the instrument’s natural sound while providing enough volume for stage performance. This presents unique challenges:

• Feedback Prevention: Acoustic guitars are more prone to feedback due to their hollow body design. Proper amplification helps manage this issue.
• Tone Preservation: The warm, rich tones of an acoustic guitar can be easily lost or distorted through poor amplification. Quality systems aim to maintain the guitar’s natural character.
• Dynamic Range: Acoustic guitars have a wide dynamic range, from soft fingerpicking to aggressive strumming. Amplification needs to handle these variations without compression or distortion.

Key components of an acoustic guitar amplification system typically include:

1. Pickup or Microphone: Captures the guitar’s sound. This can be a built-in pickup, an external microphone, or a combination of both.
2. Preamp: Boosts the signal from the pickup or microphone and often provides tone-shaping capabilities.
3. Equalizer (EQ): Allows for fine-tuning of different frequency ranges to achieve the desired tone.
4. Effects: Optional processors that can add reverb, chorus, or other effects to enhance the sound.
5. Power Amp: Amplifies the signal to a level that can drive speakers.
6. Speakers: Convert the electrical signal back into sound waves.

Understanding these components and how they interact is crucial for selecting and using the right amplification system for your acoustic guitar performances. In the following sections, we’ll explore different types of systems and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Types of Acoustic Guitar Amplification Systems

Acoustic Guitar Amplifiers

Acoustic guitar amplifiers are specifically designed to enhance and project the natural sound of acoustic instruments. They differ significantly from standard electric guitar amps in several key ways:

• Flat Frequency Response: Acoustic amps aim to reproduce the full frequency range of an acoustic guitar without coloring the sound, unlike electric amps which often emphasize certain frequencies.
• Built-in Feedback Suppression: Many acoustic amps include notch filters or phase-switching options to combat feedback, a common issue with acoustic instruments.
• Multiple Inputs: Quality acoustic amps often feature separate channels for instrument and microphone inputs, allowing singers to use the same amp for their guitar and vocals.

Features to look for in acoustic amps:

1. High headroom: Ensures clean, undistorted sound even at high volumes.
2. Onboard EQ: Allows for precise tone shaping to suit different guitars and playing styles.
3. Effects: Built-in reverb, chorus, or delay can enhance your sound without the need for external pedals.
4. DI output: Enables direct connection to a mixing board for larger venues.
5. Phantom power: Useful for powering condenser microphones or active pickups.

Top acoustic amp models for stage performance:

• Fishman Loudbox Performer (see my review): Known for its clarity and powerful 180-watt output.
• AER Compact 60 (see my review): Offers exceptional sound quality in a highly portable package.
• Bose L1 Pro 16 Line Array: Features a unique line array design for wide sound dispersion.
• BOSS Acoustic Singer Pro: Provides a robust 120-watt stereo output with dual channels.

When choosing an acoustic amp, consider factors such as power output, portability, and the specific features that match your performance needs. A good acoustic amp can serve as an all-in-one solution for many guitarists. It provides high-quality amplification tailored specifically for acoustic instruments.

Remember, while these amps are designed for acoustic guitars, their effectiveness can vary depending on your instrument’s pickup system and your playing style. It’s always recommended to test an amp with your guitar before making a purchase.

Direct Input (DI) Boxes

Direct Input (DI) boxes are essential tools in the acoustic guitarist’s arsenal, especially for stage performances. These devices convert the high-impedance, unbalanced signal from your guitar’s pickup into a low-impedance, balanced signal. This balanced signal can be sent directly to a mixing console or PA system.

What is a DI box and how does it work? A DI box acts as an interface between your acoustic guitar and the sound system. It takes the weak signal from your guitar’s pickup and transforms it into a strong, clean signal that can travel long distances without degradation. This is crucial for maintaining sound quality in live performance settings.

Passive vs. Active DI Boxes:

1. Passive DI Boxes: • Require no power source • Generally more rugged and reliable • Work well with instruments that have active pickups or preamps • Example: Radial JDI Passive Direct Box
2. Active DI Boxes: • Require phantom power or batteries • Offer additional features like EQ controls or built-in preamps • Better for instruments with passive pickups • Example: LR Baggs Para Acoustic DI

For a deep dive, check out the article Passive vs Active DI Box: Which is Right for Your Setup?

Benefits of using a DI box for acoustic guitar:

• Improved Signal Quality: DI boxes help maintain the integrity of your guitar’s tone over long cable runs.
• Balanced Output: Reduces noise and interference, especially important in professional stage setups.
• Ground Lift: Many DI boxes feature a ground lift switch to eliminate hum caused by ground loops.
• Impedance Matching: Ensures optimal signal transfer between your guitar and the PA system.
• Versatility: Some DI boxes include additional features like EQ controls, effects loops, or multiple inputs.

When choosing a DI box for your acoustic guitar, consider factors such as the type of pickup in your guitar, the venues you typically play, and any additional features you might need. High-end DI boxes like the Grace Design M101 Microphone Preampor the Radial PZ-Pro offer comprehensive tone-shaping capabilities and can significantly enhance your live sound.

Remember, while a DI box can greatly improve your sound quality, it’s often used in conjunction with other elements of an amplification system. These include preamps or acoustic amps, to achieve the best possible live sound.

Preamps and Effects Processors

Preamps and effects processors play a crucial role in shaping and enhancing the sound of acoustic guitars for stage performances. These devices offer a level of control and versatility that can significantly improve your live sound.

Role of preamps in acoustic guitar amplification:

• Boost the weak signal from acoustic pickups to line level
• Provide impedance matching between the guitar and other equipment
• Offer tone-shaping capabilities through EQ controls
• Often include anti-feedback features

Built-in vs. external preamps:

1. Built-in preamps: • Integrated into the guitar’s electronics • Convenient and always available • Limited in features and flexibility • Examples: Fishman Matrix Infinity, LR Baggs Element
2. External preamps: • Standalone units offering more features and control • Can be used with multiple guitars • Allow for easy upgrades or changes to your setup • Examples: LR Baggs Venue DI, Grace Design BiX

Popular acoustic preamp pedals and processors:

1. LR Baggs Venue DI • Features: 5-band EQ, tuner, boost, notch filter • Ideal for Gigging musicians who need versatile tone control
2. Fishman Platinum Pro EQ • Features: Dual inputs, compression, adjustable gain • Ideal for: Players who use both pickup and microphone
3. Boss AD-10 Acoustic Preamp • Features: Acoustic resonance, multi-band compressor, loop function • Ideal for: Tech-savvy players who want extensive sound-shaping options
4. TC Helicon Play Acoustic • Features: Vocal and guitar effects, harmony generation • Ideal for: Singer-songwriters who want an all-in-one solution

Key features to look for in acoustic preamps and processors:

• Parametric EQ for precise tone shaping
• Notch filter or phase inversion for feedback control
• Compression to even out dynamics
• Built-in tuner for convenience
• XLR output for direct connection to PA systems
• Effects like reverb and chorus for sound enhancement

When choosing a preamp or effects processor, consider your specific needs:

• Do you require extensive EQ control?
• Is feedback a common issue in your performances?
• Do you need effects beyond basic EQ and compression?
• Will you be using it with multiple instruments?

Remember, while these devices can greatly enhance your sound, they also require some experimentation and practice. Take time to familiarize yourself with your chosen preamp or processor to maximize its features in live performance situations.

PA Systems

PA (Public Address) systems are versatile solutions for amplifying acoustic guitars in live performance settings. While not specifically designed for acoustic guitars, they offer flexibility and power that can benefit many performers.

Using a PA system for acoustic guitar amplification

A typical PA setup for an acoustic guitarist might include:

• A microphone or direct input from the guitar’s pickup
• A mixing console
• Power amplifier (often built into powered speakers)
• Speakers (usually a pair for stereo output)

This setup allows for precise control over your sound and can accommodate additional instruments or vocals.

Advantages of PA systems:

• Versatility: Can handle multiple inputs (guitar, vocals, other instruments)
• Scalability: Suitable for various venue sizes by adding or reducing speakers
• Clarity: High-quality PA systems can reproduce the full frequency range of an acoustic guitar
• Control: Offers extensive EQ and effects options through the mixing console

Disadvantages of PA systems:

• Complexity: Requires more setup time and technical knowledge
• Cost: Complete systems can be expensive, especially for solo performers
• Portability: Full PA systems can be bulky and heavy to transport

How to connect your acoustic guitar to a PA system:

1. Using a pickup: • Connect your guitar’s output to a DI box • Run an XLR cable from the DI box to a channel on the mixing console
2. Using a microphone: • Position a quality microphone (like a Shure SM58 or AKG C414) in front of your guitar • Connect the microphone to the mixing console via an XLR cable
3. Using both pickup and microphone: • Connect both as described above to separate channels on the mixer • Blend the two signals to achieve a balanced, full-bodied sound

Tips for using a PA system with acoustic guitar:

• Start with a flat EQ and adjust slowly to find your ideal tone
• Use a high-pass filter to reduce low-frequency rumble
• Apply compression judiciously to even out your dynamics
• Add a touch of reverb for a more natural acoustic sound

Popular PA systems for acoustic performances:

• QSC K12.2 Active Loudspeakers
• Yamaha DXR12 Powered Speakers
• Bose L1 Pro 16 Line Array System
• JBL EON ONE Compact All-In-One Rechargeable PA System

When considering a PA system for your acoustic guitar, think about your typical performance venues, your budget, and your willingness to handle more complex setup procedures. For many acoustic guitarists, especially those who also sing or perform with others, a good PA system can be an excellent investment in their sound quality and performance versatility.

Choosing the Right Amplification System for Your Needs

Selecting the ideal acoustic guitar amplification system for your needs involves careful consideration of several factors. First and foremost, consider the size and type of venues you typically perform in. Smaller, intimate settings might be well-served by a high-quality acoustic amplifier. Larger venues could require a more robust PA system. Your budget is another crucial factor; while it’s tempting to opt for the most affordable option, investing in quality equipment can significantly enhance your sound and reliability in the long run.

Portability

Portability is a key consideration for many musicians. If you’re frequently gigging at different locations, a compact, all-in-one solution like a portable PA or a lightweight acoustic amp might be preferable. However, if you primarily perform at a single venue or have reliable transportation, a more comprehensive setup with separate components could offer greater flexibility and sound quality.

Instrument and Playing Style

Your specific guitar and playing style also play a role in this decision. Some amplification systems work better with certain types of pickups or playing techniques. For instance, if you use a lot of percussive techniques, you might benefit from a system with a built-in microphone input in addition to a pickup input. Additionally, consider your technical expertise and willingness to adjust settings. While some musicians prefer the simplicity of a straightforward acoustic amp, others might enjoy the extensive control offered by a separate preamp and PA system.

Venue

It’s also worth considering your plans. If you anticipate playing larger venues in the future or collaborating with other musicians, a more scalable solution like a PA system might be a wise investment. On the other hand, if you’re primarily a solo performer in smaller venues, a high-quality acoustic amp might suffice. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best amplification system for you is the one that meets your current needs, fits within your budget, and has the potential to grow with your career. Don’t hesitate to test different options. Seek advice from experienced performers, and trust your ears to find the perfect setup for your acoustic guitar performances.

Tips for Optimizing Your Acoustic Guitar’s Live Sound

Achieving optimal live sound for your acoustic guitar goes beyond simply plugging in and playing. Start by focusing on your EQ settings, which can make or break your live tone. Begin with a flat EQ and make subtle adjustments, boosting or cutting frequencies to enhance your guitar’s natural voice while addressing any problematic resonances. A general rule of thumb is to cut rather than boost frequencies when possible, as this helps maintain a more natural sound. Pay special attention to the midrange, where acoustic guitars tend to shine.

Watch the Feedback

Feedback is a common nemesis for acoustic guitarists on stage. To combat this, familiarize yourself with your instrument’s feedback-prone frequencies and use a notch filter or parametric EQ to target and reduce these specific frequencies. Positioning on stage is also crucial; avoid standing directly in front of monitors or speakers, and consider using a feedback suppression device if issues persist. Additionally, be mindful of your volume levels. While it’s tempting to crank up the volume to compete with other instruments, this often leads to feedback and a loss of tonal quality. Instead, work with your sound engineer to find a balance that cuts through the mix without overpowering it.

Other Effects in the Chain

When it comes to effects, less is often more with acoustic guitars. A touch of reverb can add depth and ambiance, mimicking the natural resonance of an acoustic space. If you use chorus or delay, apply them sparingly to maintain the authentic character of your instrument. Compression can be a powerful tool for evening out your dynamics and adding sustain, but be cautious not to over-compress, as this can rob your playing of its natural expressiveness. Experiment with different levels of compression to find a sweet spot that enhances your sound without sounding artificial.

Only as Good as Your Instrument

Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of your guitar’s setup and the quality of your strings. A well-set-up guitar with fresh strings will naturally sound better and be easier to amplify effectively. Regular maintenance, including prompt replacement of worn strings and periodic adjustments to your guitar’s neck and bridge, can significantly improve your live sound. Remember, the goal is to amplify and enhance your acoustic guitar’s natural tone, not to fundamentally alter it. With careful attention to these details and a willingness to experiment, you can achieve a live sound that truly showcases the beauty and nuance of your acoustic guitar.

Conclusion

In the world of live acoustic guitar performance, the right amplification system is the key to delivering a captivating sound that truly represents your instrument and playing style. From acoustic amps and DI boxes to preamps and PA systems, each option offers unique benefits and challenges. The journey to finding your perfect setup is a personal one, influenced by your specific needs, venues, and musical goals. Remember, great live sound is a blend of quality equipment, thoughtful setup, and skilled operation.

As you experiment with different amplification methods, always keep the natural beauty of your acoustic guitar at the forefront. With the knowledge gained from this guide, you’re now equipped to make informed decisions about your stage setup. Whether you’re playing in intimate coffee shops or large concert halls, the right amplification system will ensure your acoustic guitar shines, allowing you to focus on what matters most – creating memorable performances that resonate with your audience. So plug in, dial in your tone, and let your acoustic guitar sing on stage like never before.

Also, check out our other useful articles:

• Unlocking Tone: A Deep Dive into the Seymour Duncan JB Guitar Pickup
• Why Practice Guitar Scales?
• Unveiling the Best Budget Electric Guitars: A Comprehensive Guide
• Unveiling the Powerhouses: A Review of the 5 Most Popular Seymour Duncan Pickups for Electric Guitar
• Classical Guitar Chair Height and Balance

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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.