Acoustic Guitars with Pickups: Fact or Fiction?
When it comes to acoustic guitars, the question of whether or not they come with pickups is a common one. Many players wonder if all acoustic guitars are equipped with pickups or if certain guitars remain unplugged. This article delves into the details, clarifying the differences and highlighting the purpose of pickups in acoustic guitars.
Types of Acoustic Guitars with or without Pickups
Not all acoustic guitars come with pickups, and it's essential to understand the distinctions between different types. Some guitars are strictly acoustic, meaning they do not have any built-in electronic components. Others are built as electro-acoustic guitars, which do have pickups installed, allowing for amplified performance.
Acoustic Guitars Without Pickups
Many traditional acoustic guitars do not come with pickups. For example, an acoustic guitar played by a professional musician for decades without the need for amplification would naturally lack built-in electronics. In cases where a player needs to perform in specific venues, a microphone is typically used to amplify the sound, though this can sometimes result in feedback issues.
Players who favor a more natural and unamplified sound often prefer guitars without pickups, as electronic components may alter the instrument's natural timbre. In many home settings, an acoustic guitar's natural projection is more than sufficient, and adding pickups would be quite unnecessary.
Acoustic-Electric Guitars
On the other hand, acoustic-electric guitars are specifically designed to be used in amplified settings. These guitars come with built-in pickups and pre-amps, making them versatile for both live performances and recording. The electronics in these guitars work to capture the acoustics of the instrument and amplify the sound through external equipment or amplifiers.
Electrified Acoustic Guitars
While all electric guitars come with pickups, not all acoustic guitars do. Some acoustic guitars feature pickup systems, which can be passive or active. Passive pickups often rely on a pre-amp for amplification and may need external boosters. Microphone systems embedded in the guitar body are another form of pickup, providing a way to amplify the instrument without the need for separate equipment.
Why Do Some Acoustic Guitars Have Pickup Systems?
The decision to include pickups in an acoustic guitar often comes down to the guitarist's needs. Performing in venues where amplification is necessary might require a pickup system to ensure the best sound quality. Additionally, some players may prefer the convenience and lack of feedback associated with built-in electronics.
Electric guitars have had pickups since their inception, and many of the first electrified guitars were actually acoustic guitars with added electronics. While the pickup systems on electric guitars are designed to capture the specific characteristics of electronic instruments, those on acoustic guitars are often designed to enhance the natural sound while ensuring unparalleled performance in amplified settings.
Conclusion
The presence of pickups in acoustic guitars is not universal. Some acoustic guitars remain unaltered, capturing the natural sound and ambiance of the instrument. Others feature pickups and pre-amps, offering a range of performance options. Whether an acoustic guitar needs pickups depends on the player's needs and the intended use of the instrument.
For those who require amplified sound or simply value the convenience and versatility offered by built-in electronics, acoustic-electric guitars with pickup systems are a great choice. For traditionalists who prioritize the natural sound and performance of an acoustic instrument, pickup-less guitars are perfectly suitable.