What's the difference in sound, between an acoustic guitar with a soundhole magnetic pickup and an electric guitar?

The Difference in Sound Between an Acoustic Guitar with a Soundhole Magnetic Pickup and an Electric Guitar

Acoustic guitars and electric guitars are known for their distinct sounds and tonal characteristics. However, with the advent of soundhole magnetic pickups for acoustic guitars, the line between the two has become somewhat blurred. In this article, we will explore the difference in sound between an acoustic guitar equipped with a soundhole magnetic pickup and an electric guitar.

Sound Capture

A soundhole magnetic pickup on an acoustic guitar captures the vibration of the strings using magnets, similar to how a magnetic pickup on an electric guitar works. The magnetic field created by the pickup is disturbed by the steel guitar strings, converting the mechanical vibrations into an electrical signal. This signal is then sent to an amplifier or PA system for amplification.

Acoustic Resonances

While a soundhole pickup can reproduce the sound of the strings, it doesn’t capture the acoustic resonances inside the body of the guitar. Acoustic guitars have a rich and dynamic unplugged tone, where the resonance of the guitar itself plays a significant role. As a result, an acoustic guitar with a soundhole pickup will still sound like an acoustic, but it may lack the complexity and resonance of its unplugged tone.

String Material

A magnetic soundhole pickup on an acoustic guitar will pick up more volume from wound strings made of nickel (which is magnetic) compared to acoustic strings made of bronze (which is non-magnetic). This difference in string material can affect the sound produced by the pickup. The magnetic pickup will emphasize the tonal characteristics and nuances of the wound strings, potentially resulting in a different overall sound compared to an electric guitar.

Top Vibration

Many soundhole pickups also have sensors that detect the vibration of the guitar’s top (soundboard), which is responsible for producing most of the acoustic sound of an acoustic guitar. This additional vibration detection contributes to the overall sound produced by the pickup. It helps capture some of the nuances and resonance of the acoustic guitar, enhancing the authenticity of the amplified sound.

Sound Replication

Soundhole pickups are designed to replicate or mimic the sound of an acoustic guitar, but they do not reproduce the exact acoustic sound. They are intentionally configured to capture the acoustic qualities of the guitar and transmit them through an electrical signal. The goal is to provide a natural and balanced representation of the acoustic guitar’s sound when amplified.

Personal Preference

The choice between a soundhole pickup and an electric guitar pickup depends on personal preference and the desired sound. Factors such as the type of amplifier or PA system used, playing solo or in a band, and the overall mix with other instruments can influence the decision. Some guitarists prefer the convenience and versatility of an electric guitar with its dedicated pickups and tone controls, while others appreciate the ability to amplify the natural sound of their acoustic guitar using a soundhole magnetic pickup.

In conclusion, the difference in sound between an acoustic guitar with a soundhole magnetic pickup and an electric guitar lies in the capture of acoustic resonances, string material emphasis, top vibration detection, and the design intent for sound replication. While a soundhole magnetic pickup can bring the acoustic guitar closer to the sound of an electric guitar, it still retains the fundamental tonal characteristics of an acoustic instrument. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired sound for a given musical context.

Sources:

“Acoustic Guitar Pickups – Your Ultimate Guide” from Andertons Music Co. (https://www.andertons.co.uk/acoustic-guitar-pickup-guide)
“What’s the difference in sound, between an acoustic guitar with a soundhole magnetic pickup and an electric guitar?” – Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange (https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/29214/whats-the-difference-in-sound-between-an-acoustic-guitar-with-a-soundhole-magn)
“How Are Passive Soundhole Pups Different from Electric Pups?” – The Acoustic Guitar Forum (https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=627751)

FAQs

How does a soundhole magnetic pickup on an acoustic guitar differ from a pickup on an electric guitar?

A soundhole magnetic pickup on an acoustic guitar captures the vibration of the strings using magnets, similar to how a magnetic pickup on an electric guitar works. However, it doesn’t capture the acoustic resonances inside the body of the guitar, resulting in a different overall sound.

What impact does string material have on the sound of an acoustic guitar with a soundhole magnetic pickup?

Does a soundhole magnetic pickup capture the acoustic resonances of an acoustic guitar?

While a soundhole pickup can reproduce the sound of the strings, it doesn’t capture the acoustic resonances inside the body of the guitar. As a result, an acoustic guitar with a soundhole pickup will still sound like an acoustic, but it may lack the complexity and resonance of its unplugged tone.

How does the top vibration of an acoustic guitar contribute to the sound produced by a soundhole magnetic pickup?

Many soundhole pickups have sensors that detect the vibration of the guitar’s top (soundboard), which is responsible for producing most of the acoustic sound of an acoustic guitar. This additional vibration detection contributes to the overall sound produced by the pickup, enhancing the authenticity of the amplified sound.

Can a soundhole magnetic pickup replicate the exact sound of an acoustic guitar?

Soundhole pickups are designed to replicate or mimic the sound of an acoustic guitar, but they do not reproduce the exact acoustic sound. They are intentionally configured to capture the acoustic qualities of the guitar and transmit them through an electrical signal, providing a natural and balanced representation of the acoustic guitar’s sound when amplified.

What factors should I consider when choosing between a soundhole magnetic pickup and an electric guitar pickup?

Can a soundhole magnetic pickup be installed easily on an acoustic guitar?

Yes, magnetic soundhole pickups are generally easy to install and can be fitted without making any permanent modifications to the guitar. Most models simply fit onto the soundhole and can be secured with a few screws. This allows for convenient installation and removal as needed.

Does a soundhole magnetic pickup work with nylon-strung acoustic guitars?

No, magnetic soundhole pickups do not work with nylon-strung acoustic guitars. Nylon strings are typically non-magnetic, and therefore, a magnetic pickup cannot effectively capture their vibrations. Soundhole pickups are best suited for steel-string acoustic guitars.