Favored Acoustic Pickups

The Magic of Dual Source Systems

                         
What is a dual-source pickup system?  Glad you asked! A dual source pickup is simply two different pickups inside your guitar, configured and mixed to produce one blended signal of tonal awesomeness.  The blending of the two signals can be done automatically with an internal preamp. However, more advanced systems allow the player to mix the signals manually and get the exact blend desired.  I have three units I'd like to share with you.  

We'll start with what is currently my top pick.  L.R. Baggs is in the habit of redefining the world of acoustic amplification, and two of their systems are featured in this discussion.  My favorite is the Anthem System, which combines an under-saddle transducer (often referred to as a piezo pickup) and a specialized microphone attached to the bridge plate.  The unique aspect of the Anthem is the microphone, coined "Tru-Mic Technology," this is not your ordinary mini-microphone. This mic is extremely resistant to feedback, and the system in general is excellent at reproducing the natural voice of your instrument. The Anthem comes in two configurations-- one gives the user an additional control to blend the transducer and mic signals manually.  The simpler version (called the Anthem SL) handles the blending for you and has a volume control.  $219 - $299 plus installation.

 

The next pickup is completely unique in its signal sourcing.  The L.R. Baggs M80 soundhole pickup is unlike any other soundhole pickup design.  The primary signal source is produced from a magnetic pickup, (like other soundhole pickups and electric guitar pickups.)  The metal strings disturb and vibrate a magnetic field in order to produce electrical current in a coil of wire. But the second signal source is where things get interesting.  The M80 is constructed to sense the vibrations of the guitar top through the mounting wings, which clamp down on the soundhole edge.  This gives the pickup a microphone-like quality, blending the magnetic signal with the vibrations of your guitar.  This pickup is excellent at louder stage volumes.  $249 plus installation.

 


A traditional favorite of mine is the Fishman Ellipse blend system, based on the famous Fishman Matrix.  I especially favor two things about this pickup.  The microphone is directional-- you can move it to find the "sweet spot" in the guitar-- meaning you can "tune" the microphone for best placement. 

I also prefer the sound of the Fishman transducer in most guitars-- especially considering the Fishman transducer doesn't change the acoustic tone of your guitar as much as the Baggs transducer.  I've been installing this pickup for the better part of a decade, and the only complaints come from musicians who are playing at loud stage volumes. At lower and moderate sound levels, this pickup is the way to go... fingerstyle players, hint, hint...