10 best hole pickups

A hole pickup, also known as a soundhole pickup or acoustic guitar pickup, is a type of transducer designed to amplify the sound of an acoustic guitar. These pickups are commonly used in acoustic guitars, including steel-string and nylon-string guitars, to capture the instrument's natural acoustic sound and send it to an amplifier or sound system. Here are some key points about hole pickups:

  1. Purpose: Hole pickups are used to convert the vibrations of an acoustic guitar's strings into electrical signals.These signals can then be amplified and played through a guitar amplifier or PA system, making it possible for the acoustic guitar to be heard in larger venues or recordings.

  2. Installation: Hole pickups are typically mounted in the soundhole of the guitar, hence the name "soundhole pickup." They are relatively easy to install and do not require major modifications to the guitar. This makes them a popular choice for players who want to add amplification to their acoustic guitar without altering its appearance significantly.

  3. Types: There are different types of soundhole pickups, including magnetic pickups and piezoelectric pickups:

    • Magnetic Pickups: These pickups use magnets to capture the vibration of the strings. They are similar in principle to the pickups used in electric guitars. Magnetic pickups are known for their warm and natural tone but may not capture the full range of an acoustic guitar's sound.

    • Piezoelectric Pickups: Piezo pickups use crystals or ceramics to convert the mechanical vibrations of the guitar's bridge or soundboard into electrical signals. They are known for their clarity and accurate representation of the acoustic guitar's sound. Piezo pickups can be mounted under the saddle or on the guitar's top.

  4. Preamps: Many hole pickups come with built-in preamps, which allow you to control the volume and tone of the amplified signal. Some preamps also include features like EQ adjustments and onboard tuners.

  5. Feedback Control: Acoustic guitars with pickups can be prone to feedback issues when played at high volumes. To mitigate this, some soundhole pickups and preamps include feedback control features like notch filters and phase inversion switches.

  6. Compatibility: Hole pickups are available in different sizes to fit various acoustic guitar soundholes. It's important to choose a pickup that is compatible with your guitar's soundhole dimensions.

  7. Sound Quality: The choice between magnetic and piezoelectric pickups often comes down to personal preference and the desired sound. Some players prefer the warmth of magnetic pickups, while others prefer the accuracy of piezo pickups. It's a good idea to try different pickups and see which one best suits your playing style and the sound you want to achieve.

  8. Installation Considerations: If you're not comfortable installing a soundhole pickup yourself, it's advisable to have it installed by a professional luthier or guitar technician to ensure proper placement and minimal impact on your guitar's playability.

Hole pickups are a valuable tool for acoustic guitarists who want to amplify their instruments while preserving their acoustic sound. They provide versatility and allow players to perform in a variety of settings, from intimate acoustic sessions to larger venues with amplified sound.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hole pickups on the market
  

ammoon Passive Magnetic Soundhole Pickup Pick-up for Folk Guitar (Dual Coil)

Based on 69 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications:

Package Size: 19 * 13.5 * 6cm / 7.5 * 5.3 * 2.4in

Package Weight: 300g / 10.6oz



Package List:

1 * Pickup System

1 * User Manual (English & Chinese)

  • Passive magnetic sound hole pickup for folk guitar.
  • Neodymium magnet, picks warm and full sound.
  • Features stacked coils to eliminate noise.
  • High impedance and no need of battery.
  • With end pin jack, easy installation.

User questions & answers

Question: does this fits in the hole of a 3/4 guitar
Answer: 120.
Question: I just noticed in the pics that it is mounted in the bottom of the soundhole. I've never seen that before. Is that correct
Answer: No, it has a rotary motor. There's a lot of advantages to using a rotary powered clipper vs an electromagnetic.
Question: Is there a volume control
Answer: Creo que si
Question: Will this device work with nylon guitar strings
Answer: I do not understand hertz. What is hertz?

Fishman PRO-NEO-D04 Passive Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup - Wood Effect

Fishman

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This cousin of award-winning rare earth pickup shares the same neodymium magnet structure for exceptional string balance and brilliant acoustic clarity. Low-profile, high-impedance Neo-Ds design requires no battery.

  • Neodymium magnet structure for exceptional rope balance and brilliant acoustic clarity. Low profile, high impedance design no battery needed. Easy untampered installation, plug and play right out of the box. Excellent balance from rope to rope and acoustic clarity. Fits sound holes as small as 3-7/8\" (98.5 mm) diameter

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a Humbucking Pickup or single coil
Answer: Single coil.
Question: Will this work with nylon strings
Answer: I have been using it with my Yamaha FG850 with steel strings. I have heard that they are not good with nylon strings. I do have a GC-series classical Yamaha and will see if it works with nylon strings the next time I am at my son's house (early February). In general, magnetic pickups do not work with nylon strings, so you will probably have to purchase an active pickup for classical guitars, or a piezo piezo pickup such as: https://www.amazon.com/NG-1-Piezo-Pickup-String-Guitar/dp/B00LTL0KLI/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=soundhole+pickup+for+nylon+strings&qid=1609795445&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-3 Sorry I could not be more definitive, but I will gladly check it out and post my results under the Fishman Neo-D Passive Soundhole pickup reviews in a few weeks.
Question: will this work for an acoustic bass
Answer: Perhaps for a live performance its perfect. One of the better models would be more appropriate for recording
Question: Is it for a baby guitar?... the hole is 9cm
Answer: I used it on my dreadnaught 12 string. I did put a black version into a 3/4 sized Guitar but had to modify one of the mountin tabs with a file for it to fit.

Guild Guitars DeArmond Tone Boss Soundhole Pickup (009-9208-049)

Guild Guitars

Based on 82 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The DeArmond Tone Boss acoustic sound hole pickup provides a simple, high fidelity magnetic pickup solution for any steel string guitar. The passive humbucking design accurately reproduces the guitar’s tone for an incredibly natural voice and is controlled with an onboard volume knob. 3 top trim colors in black, cream and tortoiseshell are included with each Tone Boss, allowing the user to customize the pickup’s look to match the aesthetic of any guitar. Hardware for permanent endpin output jack mounting is also included.

  • Classic humbucking design
  • Multiple Color Face Plates
  • Removable or permanent install options
  • item package weight: 5.0 pounds

User questions & answers

Question: Being a passive pickup, have you found it to be underpowered
Answer: yes, I have used stainless steel strings with no problem; however, I have a wooden box guitar and use Dean Markley strings (which I believe are steel).
Question: Will stainless steel strings will work without an issue
Answer: Yes - magnetic.
Question: good morning, is it passive
Answer: Yes
Question: Will this connect to any amp & pedals
Answer: Hi, No, there is no built in tuner. Great sound though. Steve H.

Seymour Duncan Woody HC Hum-Canceling Soundhole Pickup

Seymour Duncan

Based on 331 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Seymour Duncan Woody HC Hum-Canceling Soundhole Pickup uses Stack technology to deliver full-bodied tone without noise or hum. If you have to play near neon signs or fluorescent lights, the Woody HC is the Seymour Duncan pickup to get for your acoustic guitar.

  • Transducer: Magnetic
  • Placement: Soundhole
  • Jack: 1/4" male
  • Color: Maple

User questions & answers

Question: Does it have a lot of noise since you can't put a feedback plug in the guitar? Also, can i plug it directly into my Line6 amp(4 electric guitar
Answer: Feedback would depend on your situation, proximity to speakers, size of room, volume level, etc. I never use feedback plug because that's never an issue for us. Yes, you can plug into any amp or preamp. It doesn't have a lot of volume by itself being a passive pickup, so I would recommend plugging into an amp or preamp if going directly into a system.
Question: Has anyone compared this to the "XL" version, is it worth the price difference
Answer: The XL is only different in that it has adjustable pole pieces to balance your string outputs. These lower cost "portable" pickup solutions are not EVER the best sounding, BUT if you purchase an external acoustic guitar PRE-AMP you will find the resulting sound competes with the $300-$400 acoustic/electric guitar setups which always employ a built-in preamp. Then the only drawback as I see it would be esthetics. That's the tradeoff for using a temporary or portable pickup. In my considered opinion a preamp is a must. AND as with all acoustic guitar setups, use an amplifier Fender, Fishman, AER, Marshall, Boss, etc designed for acoustic guitar. Reason being that, Electric Guitar Amps are not generally designed to amplify sounds over 5KHZ. An acoustic guitar should run through an amp designed to reproduce 7KHZ+ faithfully! No acoustic pickup sounds very good running through an electric guitar amplifier. Conclusion. Want this or any pickup on your acoustic to shine; Buy the pickup of your choice, an in-line external preamp and an Acoustic Guitar Amplifier. You may have to drop about $1000 in the long run, but you'll have a lifetime of LOUD Acoustic Guitar Joy my friend!
Question: Can I use it on the little Martin Lxk
Answer: The Woody HC is designed to fit "into standard 3.75" (94mm) to 4" (100mm) sound holes." If the Martin has a sound hole within this range, it should fit. Instructions are included it the packaging. If you don't know the sound hole dimensions, check with Martin.
Question: Can this be installed and easily removed when needed? thanks
Answer: Yes, it is very easy to install and remove.

FireStik SS-294A Pickup truck stake hole cb antenna mount

Based on 284 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SS-294A Pickup truck stake hole cb antenna mount

  • Brand New & Factory Original!

User questions & answers

Question: Will they for 2001 dodge diesel. The bed rails are sloped just a little and I want them standing straight up
Answer: Yes it probably will. I installed it on my Ibanez 3/4 parlor guitar. Took some maneuvering but it fits.
Question: Will this work with a whip antenna with a spring
Answer: You can mount almost anywhere in the soundhole. I have found that preamp from the factory are usually under the bridge so mount this at the bottom of the soundhole would make sense and the wire would be more out of the way if you don’t drill it for the strap mount.
Question: Will this fit in a 2015 Ram 1500? Thanks ahead
Answer: There is no volume or EQ controls on this pick up. It is designed to merely pick up the acoustic sound and transfer it through an amp. All controls would be done at the amp.
Question: anyone know if this will work with stake holes in a 2001 ext.cab silverado
Answer: Unfortunately no. For nylon-stringed guitars you'll need a piezo pickup or microphone pickup.

Fishman Neo-Buster Humbucker Soundhole Acoustic Pickup & Feedback Buster

Fishman

Based on 58 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Neo-Buster Humbucking from Fishman combines their popular Neo-D Humbucking pickup with a feedback-fighting soundhole cover to give you great sounding acoustic tone, even in your loudest performances. This humbucking magnetic soundhole pickup produces a warm and full sound while also greatly reducing hum and unwanted interference. It also shares the same neodymium magnet structure as the award-winning Rare Earth pickup for exceptional string balance and incredible acoustic clarity. Its low-profile, high impedance design needs no battery. When you need to play in high-volume situations, the integrated soundhole cover reduces the build-up of energy inside the guitar that often leads to uncontrollable howling. Made of a flexible elastomer that will not react with most finishes, it requires no tools for installation and fits most flat-top guitars with a 3-7/8 or 4 diameter soundhole.

  • Neodymium humbucking magnet structure for warm humbucking tone and exceptional string balanceIntegrated feedback-buster for high-volume playingLow profile, high impedance design needs no batteryFlexible surround reduces howling in high volume situationsEasy installation with no alteration fits most standard acoustic guitars with 3-7/8 or 4 diameter soundholeTool-free installation
  •  This humbucking magnetic soundhole pickup produces a warm and full sound while also greatly reducing hum and unwanted interference
  • It also shares the same neodymium magnet structure as the award-winning Rare Earth pickup for exceptional string balance and incredible acoustic clarity
  • Its low-profile, high impedance design needs no battery
  •  When you need to play in high-volume situations, the integrated soundhole cover reduces the build-up of energy inside the guitar that often leads to uncontrollable howling

User questions & answers

Question: I use dadario silk & steel strings. will this work with them since they aren't 100% steel
Answer: I only use steel guitar strings so I don't know the answer to your question. Neo-buster humbusker is working ok. Howard (BO)
Question: Does installation require removing the strings? How does it stay in the sound hole
Answer: I was able to install mine without removing the strings, but I had to use a dremel tool and grind off rubber all the way around the outer edge, quite a bit in order to get it to fit into the sound hole. I would contact the seller after measuring the diameter of your guitar’s soundhole, to ensure that it will fit.
Question: Does this work with nylon strings
Answer: No, you need a piezo style pickup. This particular pickup also would not fit the mounting hole in any of my acoustic guitars.
Question: Would this be good to record with using a USB audiobox
Answer: Hey, yes the sound is amazing. Also, there is no noise. Real good reproduction of the entire sound spectrum of the guitar. You could go for this without a second thought. Also, the resonance is amazing.

Product features

Fishman PRO-NEO-FB2

The Neo-Buster Humbucking from Fishman combines our popular Neo-D Humbucking pickup with a feedback-fighting soundhole cover to give you great sounding acoustic tone, even in your loudest performances.This humbucking magnetic soundhole pickup produces a warm and full sound while also greatly reducing hum and unwanted interference. It’s low-profile, high impedance design needs no battery.

Inspired

We love music, and we are continually inspired by musicians to create tools for them that in turn motivate us forward.

Performance

We are always striving to perform at our highest levels, delivering value and quality, and respecting our customers’ hard work and investment in our products.

Technology

Since the very beginning, Fishman has been about making intricate technologies workable for musicians. Harnessing them in ways that are functional, affordable, robust and repeatable.

A Letter from the President

Fishman is dedicated to helping musicians of all styles achieve the truest sound possible wherever and whenever they plug in. Our ongoing commitment to professional sound and quality has helped our company grow to become one of the industry leader in amplification, effects, and pickups for acoustic and electric instruments, MIDI control, and other product categories. The loyalty from our extended family of players, technicians, repair professionals, and instrument manufacturers, is really a result of our loyalty toward them. This bond goes beyond product alone, but also extends to our customer service, interaction and support.

After 35 years, you still have my promise that Fishman will always endeavor to be the best at what we do, but most importantly to make you sound your absolute best.

Thanks to all of you who have chosen Fishman. Have a great gig.

-Larry Fishman, President.

Seymour Duncan Woody XL Adjustable Pole Pieces Soundhole Pickup

Based on 67 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Seymour Duncan pickup is a top of the line Woody pickup that provides clear, accurate tone. 6 fully adjustable pole pieces accommodate a wide variety of string gauges and neck radii. Stack hum-canceling design for consistent freedom from noise and feedback.

  • The Seymour Duncan pickup is a top of the line Woody pickup that provides clear, accurate tone
  • 6 fully adjustable pole pieces accommodate a wide variety of string gauges and neck radii
  • Stack hum-canceling design for consistent freedom from noise and feedback

User questions & answers

Question: Does this pickup fit into a 3.25" soundhole
Answer: No not without your custom modification such as adding a wedge insert. I have a 2015 Dodge Ram and its bed rails are slightly sloped from horizontal outwards but I just live with it. It's noticeable to me, but anyone else who might care would be an engineer and engineers are always complaining about everything including about every one else. I know several engineers and that's their humor finding fault in every one else.
Question: Does it works with nylon strings
Answer: The mount may not hold a steel whip with a spring. I use a 4 ft fiberglass whip without a spring on my pick up. It seems to work just fine.
Question: Has anyone compared this to the regular version, is it worth the price difference
Answer: Yes, it fits perfect,,I am using one in my 15 quad 1500
Question: Will this work with a 12 string? I know it only has 6 pole but has anyone tried it & liked it
Answer: works with any stake pocket. I would give you this bit of advice. DON'T USE THE HARDWARE!! After one year the stress on the screws stripped them out from my 58inch 2 meter mast. The plates are good quality but the hardware is crap.

FireStik SS-194A Pickup Truck Bedrail Stakehole Antenna Mount - Stainless Steel

FireStik

Based on 341 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FIRESTIK Stake Hole Mount Extended with K-4A Stud, SS194A

  • FIRESTIK Screw-On Extended Stake-Hole CB Antenna Mount - Stainless Steel SS-194A.
  • Accepts regular Optional screw-in Coaxial cable with PL-259 Connector.
  • No Drilling - Clamps into stake-hole on bedrail of many Pickup trucks
  • For any optional CB or Amateur radio antennas with regular 3/8-24 bolt-in thread.

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on a 06 Titan
Answer: It is true to size. If your little one just entered size 2 then go with the 2 but if they have been in a 2 for a bit get the 3. It really is a well made hoodie. Great quality and washed well. It can be warn throughout the fall and winter. My guy loves to wear it indoors. So it is great for Halloween but can be worn any time with any pants - enjoy.
Question: i plan on running this mount with the 4' firestick and a spring. Will the spring(firestik ss-3H) work with this mount
Answer: I buy my child size 2T to 21 months and stay a little big. But children grow fast and no clothes. I recommend that if you have 4 years of age and recently completed is not very chubby size 4t buy. If not a little larger for q will last longer. I hope to help you.
Question: Will this fit a 2004 tundra? Do I have to take off the bed rail
Answer: I got the 4t for $26.99. I don't see two different pictures so I'm not sure what you see. What the jacket I got has white sleeves with black dots. Red vest and has a hood. It has two ears and a net like that covers the eyes so it looks like marshalls eyes and the hood is a fire man hat but flexible. So my son can still put his head back and it does not hurt.
Question: Will this work with a weboost antenna
Answer: I DON'T know the exact answer to this question, BUT I went Online and the LR40 battery ISN'T available, so "IF" YOU have one or some, I suggest you contact the Manufacturer for its' equivalent. In My searches, the LR41 has MANY equivalent replacements, BUT when I search for the LR40, I ONLY find the LR44 comes up. HOPE THIS HELPS!!

L.R. Baggs M1 Active Acoustic Guitar Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

Based on 73 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The M1 is for players who love big acoustic tone with high feedback resistance on any stage. Combining the natural characteristics of your guitar's soundboard with a punchy string attack, the M1's body sensitive design provides enhanced realism while cutting through a loud mix. The M1 is a patented humbucking pickup with a twist. In a common stacked humbucker, the lower coil cancels hum, but doesn't contribute anything positive to the sound. We unlock the lower coil with a carefully tuned support that allows it to capture higher frequency resonances. As the pickup moves with the guitar's soundboard, a body signal is created in the suspended coil that adds presence and realism to your amplified sound.

  • Highly Feedback-resistant
  • Volume control
  • Long battery life – 1,000 hours on one 3V lithium coin cell
  • Adjustable pole pieces for perfect balance with most string types and gauges
  • Long battery life – 1,000 hours on one 3V lithium coin cell

User questions & answers

Question: I'm trying to adjust the pole height because it interferes with my slap percussion techniques. Is is going to affect the sound if I lower the poles
Answer: According to the packaging they come with, yes, they are BPA free.
Question: What is the smallest soundhole this will fit into
Answer: They are not insulated. You can keep the lid on to keep the contents warm.
Question: Is the cord separate & detachable from the sound board pick up in this model (or any other model) when playing unplugged or if longer cord is needed
Answer: They don't leak at all!! I pour my soup in and take it to work almost everyday and it works like a charm!!!
Question: Does it unclude a L.R. BAGGS STRAPJACK UNIT FOR M1 PICKUP
Answer: I've put tomato soups in without any issue but never tried chili. if you are really worried about it, just buy the red ones. Ha!

Fender 57 Stratocaster (8-Hole) 1-Ply Pick Guard for 3 Single-Coil Pickups - White

Based on 58 reviews Check latest price

Product description

57 Stratocaster (8-Hole) White, 1-Ply Pick guard For 3 Single-Coil Pickups

  • Genuine Fender Replacement Part
  • High Quality
  • Durable
  • Country of Origin: United States

User questions & answers

Question: Are these pickgards shielded
Answer: I have both and the regular version gets a lot of hum from florescent lights. The noise cancelling one does not; it's quiet. The XL is a Hum canceling stack.
Question: Wondering if the shielding covers whole guard or just the cavities. Picture only shows the face
Answer: I use it primarily with a 12 sting and it does an amazing job., very happy with its performance!

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