The sound of an electric guitar depends heavily on the pickups chosen by the guitarist. Among the options available, the piezo pickup has gained notoriety, especially for musicians who want to achieve different sounds and explore new ways of playing. So, it is worth analyzing the characteristics of the best piezo pickups on the market to choose the one that suits your musical preferences. In this guide, we will delve into the specifications that define the best piezo pickups based on their construction, tone, and compatibility with your guitar’s configuration.Piezo pickups have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the unique sound and tone that they offer. When it comes to choosing a piezo, there are several factors that you need to consider. It is essential to understand the different types of piezo pickups available, such as under-saddle and soundboard transducer pickups. Additionally, you need to think about the Piezo’s construction, tone, and its compatibility with your guitar. Below, we’ll go into greater detail about these essential considerations.
In this guide, we will cover everything that you need to know to choose the best piezo pickup for your electric guitar. We will discuss the different types of piezo pickups and the unique features of each. Moreover, we will explain the factors that you need to consider when choosing a piezo, such as the construction, tone, and its compatibility with your guitar. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of the best piezo pickups on the market and will be better equipped to choose one that meets your specific needs.In addition to the factors mentioned above, it’s important to keep in mind the sound output of the piezo, as it may vary depending on the placement on the guitar and the number of pickups used. Moreover, it is worth analyzing the quality and durability of the piezo, especially if you plan to use it frequently. With all these considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best piezo pickup for your electric guitar.When it comes to piezo pickups, it’s important to choose one that is well-crafted and long-lasting. A well-made piezo pickup will provide consistent performance, allowing you to achieve the desired sound every time you play. You should also look for a piezo pickup that offers the tone type that suits your playing style. Some piezo pickups may offer a warmer, more mellow sound, while others may provide a brighter, more aggressive tone. Ultimately, the choice of tone is down to personal preference. Make sure that the piezo pickup you choose is compatible with your guitar’s size and configuration. Finally, don’t forget to do your research before purchasing a piezo pickup and ensure that you invest in a quality product that will provide you with excellent sound quality for years to come.
Types of Piezo Pickups
Under-saddle and soundboard transducer are the two main types of piezo pickups that you can choose from. Each type of piezo has its unique characteristics that can impact the sound of your electric guitar. The choice between the two typically comes down to personal preference and the specific sound you are looking to achieve.When choosing a piezo pickup, it is important to consider several key factors. The first of these is construction. A piezo built with durable and reliable materials will typically last longer and provide more consistent performance. Another factor to consider is the tone of the piezo. Sustain, brightness, and clarity are all influenced by the choice of piezo. Finally, it is important to ensure your chosen piezo is compatible with your specific guitar. This compatibility can be impacted by factors such as the bridge size and guitar specifications. Being mindful of these considerations can help you find the perfect piezo pickup.
Under-saddle piezo pickups are a widely popular choice among guitarists and are typically installed under the guitar’s bridge, picking up the vibrations of the strings. These types of piezos generally produce a more traditional and warmer sound when compared to soundboard transducers. Soundboard transducers, on the other hand, are attached to the guitar’s top, capturing the vibrations of the entire soundboard. This results in a brighter, clearer, and more natural tone. Nevertheless, each type of piezo has its own unique features that can influence the sound produced by the guitar. Identifying the differences between the two types of piezos can help you make a better-informed decision when choosing the perfect piezo pickup for your electric guitar.When considering the best piezo pickups, the K&K Pure Mini comes out on top for under-saddle piezos. This piezo has a simple design, easy to install, and produces a clear and well-balanced tone. If you’re looking for a soundboard transducer, the Fishman Matrix Infinity is a great option, characterized by a natural tone and a sleek, modern design. Other great options include the LR Baggs Anthem and the Shadow Nanoflex for under-saddle piezos, and the LR Baggs Anthem SL and the K&K Aloha Twin for soundboard transducers. Whatever your choice may be, these top-rated piezos provide exceptional sound quality.In conclusion, selecting the right piezo pickup for your electric guitar can have a significant impact on its overall sound quality. Determining the different types of piezo pickups, considering key factors involved in choosing a piezo, and knowing the best piezo pickups available can go a long way in helping you make the right decision. Now that you know the basics of choosing the ideal piezo, you can confidently take the next step in achieving the sound you have been looking for.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Piezo Pickup
When choosing your piezo pickup, there are several things to consider. One of the most important factors is the piezo’s construction. A well-constructed piezo will last longer and provide more consistent performance over time. Piezos can be made from various materials, but some of the most common are ceramic, crystal, and polymer. Ceramic piezos tend to be the most popular because they are affordable and offer a decent tone. Crystal piezos have a warmer sound than ceramic but are more costly. Finally, polymer piezos are even more expensive than crystal piezos, but they provide the most natural tone of the three. Ultimately, it is essential to consider your budget and the kind of sound you want from your guitar before choosing a piezo pickup.
Another factor to consider when selecting a piezo pickup is the tone you want to achieve. Piezo pickups can have a significant impact on your guitar’s tone, with factors like sustain, brightness, and clarity affected by your choice. For example, if you’re looking to achieve a more vintage or traditional tone, an under-saddle piezo pickup may be a better option. On the other hand, if you want a brighter, more natural sound that mimics an acoustic guitar, a soundboard transducer may be a better choice. It is essential to know your preferences and play style when determining the type of tone you want to achieve, as this can significantly impact your playing experience.When choosing your piezo pickup, it is also crucial to consider its compatibility with your guitar. Some piezos are designed to work with specific types of guitars, such as those with narrower or wider width saddles, while others offer more versatility. Knowing your guitar’s specifications, such as the size of the bridge, will help ensure you find a piezo that will fit properly and produce a quality sound. It’s also worth noting that some piezos may require professional installation to ensure they are properly installed and configured, so if you’re not comfortable with DIY installs, be sure to consider this factor as well.Overall, selecting the right piezo pickup for your electric guitar can make a big difference in the sound you achieve. By understanding the different types of piezos, what to consider when choosing a piezo, and the top-rated options on the market, you can make an informed decision and find a piezo pickup that delivers the sound and performance you’re looking for. So take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to try a few different options before settling on the best piezo pickup for your needs.
Best Piezo Pickups
After extensive research and testing, we found that the LR Baggs Anthem, which is considered one of the most natural-sounding under-saddle piezos in the market, is a fantastic option. The LR Baggs Anthem’s Tru-Mic system blends the under-saddle piezo with a condenser microphone positioned inside the guitar body, resulting in a highly detailed and well-balanced sound. Furthermore, the Anthem has a discrete, unobtrusive design, and its preamp is strategically placed inside the guitar’s soundhole for easy access. In other words, this is one of the few piezos that could replace your guitar’s factory system and provide a significant improvement in sound quality.
Another excellent option for soundboard transducers is the K&K Aloha Twin. This piezo pickup system takes a unique approach, utilizing four individual transducers that attach to different areas on the guitar’s soundboard. This design results in a highly natural sound that captures the guitar’s true acoustic character. Additionally, the Aloha Twin is built using high-quality materials and is straightforward to install. Its balanced tone and dynamic range make it an excellent choice for professional musicians who seek superior sound quality. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your preferences and the specific characteristics of your guitar.When choosing a piezo pickup, one must consider the factors that can affect the sound quality, such as the piezo’s construction, tone, and compatibility with your guitar. The LR Baggs Anthem and K&K Aloha Twin are great examples of high-quality piezos that offer an exceptional tone and balanced sound. Whatever your choice may be, ensuring that you understand the types available and the factors to consider will help you make an informed decision. By picking the correct piezo, you can significantly improve your guitar’s sound quality and take your playing to the next level.In conclusion, investing in a quality piezo pickup for your electric guitar is an essential step that can elevate the overall sound quality of your instrument. Whether you opt for an under-saddle or soundboard transducer, selecting a well-constructed piezo with a balanced tone and compatibility with your guitar is crucial. The LR Baggs Anthem, K&K Aloha Twin, Fishman Matrix Infinity, and K&K Pure Mini are all excellent options, but there are many other high-quality piezos out there to choose from. We hope this guide has helped you understand the different types of piezos available and the factors to consider when choosing the best one for your electric guitar.
Conclusion
It’s worth noting that the LR Baggs Anthem and K&K Aloha Twin are not the only piezo pickups available. Still, they both stand out in terms of quality and performance. Other top-rated options for soundboard transducers include the Fishman Rare Earth, the LR Baggs Element, and the K&K Trinity Pro. For under-saddle piezos, the LR Baggs M1 Active and the Fishman Rare Earth Blend are both great choices. Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a piezo is selecting one that produces the sound you desire and is compatible with your guitar. By taking the time to research and test various options, you will find the perfect piezo to enhance your playing experience.
It’s important to note that piezo pickups do have some inherent limitations compared to other guitar pickups. For example, while they provide an excellent natural tone, they may not provide the same level of sustain and harmonic richness as magnetic pickups. Also, some players find that piezos can be more challenging to dial in and mix in a live setting. Despite these limitations, piezos remain a popular choice, especially for those who prefer a more acoustic or natural sound. Ultimately, it’s up to each player to decide which pickup design to use based on their tonal preferences and playing style.When it comes to choosing a piezo pickup for your electric guitar, it can be challenging to determine which one will provide the best results. Factors such as construction, tone, and compatibility with your guitar are crucial to consider. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know, from the types of piezo pickups available to the top-rated options on the market. By understanding the options available, you will be better equipped to select the perfect piezo pickup for your needs and take your playing to the next level.In conclusion, picking the right piezo pickup can make a significant difference in your electric guitar’s tone and sound quality. It’s essential to consider the different types of piezo pickups, such as under-saddle and soundboard transducers, and the factors that influence their performance, including construction, tone, and compatibility. We’ve discussed several of the best piezo pickups available on the market, such as the LR Baggs Anthem and the K&K Aloha Twin. Keep in mind that while piezos do have some limitations compared to magnetic pickups, they remain an excellent option for those who prefer a natural and acoustic sound. By using the information in this guide, you’ll be able to select the perfect piezo pickup for your playing style, preferences, and guitar.
Hi there! I’m Casey Marshall, a guitar enthusiast and repair specialist. With years of experience playing and repairing guitars, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the instrument. Through this blog, I share tips and advice on guitar repair and maintenance, as well as insights into the world of guitar playing.
