How to Use a Soundhole Pickup on an Acoustic Guitar – A Complete Guide

A soundhole pickup is one of the easiest and most effective ways to amplify an acoustic guitar.

Whether you’re performing live, recording in a studio, or just jamming at home, a soundhole pickup allows you to project your guitar’s tone through an amplifier or PA system while preserving its acoustic qualities.

If you’re new to using a soundhole pickup, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from installation to tone adjustments and troubleshooting.

What is a Soundhole Pickup?

A soundhole pickup is a magnetic pickup designed to fit inside the soundhole of an acoustic guitar. It works by detecting the vibrations of the guitar strings and converting them into an electrical signal that can be amplified.

Types of Soundhole Pickups

There are three main types of soundhole pickups, each offering a unique sound:

1. Passive Magnetic Pickups – No battery required, produces a warm, natural tone.
2. Active Magnetic Pickups – Battery-powered, provides a stronger signal and more control over tone.
3. Humbucking Pickups – Reduces noise and feedback, great for live performances.

Choosing the right pickup depends on your playing style and performance needs.

How to Install a Soundhole Pickup on Your Acoustic Guitar

Step 1: Choose the Right Pickup

Select a pickup that matches your needs. Passive pickups are great for simplicity, while active pickups offer more tone-shaping capabilities.

Step 2: Loosen or Remove Guitar Strings

Before installation, loosen or remove the strings to make space for the pickup. If you’re using a temporary pickup, loosening the strings slightly is enough.

Step 3: Position the Pickup in the Soundhole

Place the pickup inside the soundhole and make sure it sits firmly in place. Most pickups come with adjustable clamps or foam padding to prevent movement.

Step 4: Route the Cable

Some pickups have a temporary external cable, while others require drilling a hole in the endpin for a permanent jack installation.

• For temporary use – Let the cable hang outside and plug it directly into an amp or preamp.
• For permanent installation – Drill a small hole near the strap button, secure the jack, and feed the cable through.

Step 5: Restring the Guitar and Test the Pickup

Once installed, tune your guitar and test the pickup by plugging it into an amplifier or audio interface.

How to Connect a Soundhole Pickup to an Amplifier

Using a soundhole pickup is simple—just plug it into an amplifier, PA system, or recording device. Here’s how:

1. Use a Standard Instrument Cable – Most pickups connect via a 1/4-inch guitar cable.
2. Plug into an Acoustic Amp or PA System – This ensures a clear and natural sound.
3. Adjust Volume and EQ Settings – Modify bass, mids, and treble for the best tone.
4. Use a Preamp if Needed – Some passive pickups benefit from an external preamp for extra volume and tone shaping.

How to Get the Best Tone from a Soundhole Pickup

1. Adjust the Pickup Height

Many soundhole pickups allow you to adjust their distance from the strings. Closer pickups produce a stronger signal, while lower pickups offer a more balanced tone.

2. Use EQ Settings to Shape Your Sound

• If your tone is too bright, reduce the treble.
• If the sound is muddy, increase the midrange.
• If the bass is too boomy, lower the bass frequencies.

3. Blend with a Microphone

For a more natural acoustic sound, combine your pickup’s signal with a condenser microphone placed in front of the guitar.

4. Use Effects Pedals for More Control

Adding reverb, EQ, or compressor pedals can improve your amplified sound, making it more dynamic and rich.

Common Problems & How to Fix Them

1. Feedback Issues

Problem: A loud ringing or howling sound when playing through an amplifier.
Solution:

• Reduce the gain or treble settings.
• Move further from speakers or monitors.
• Use a feedback buster (rubber soundhole cover) to block unwanted resonance.

2. Weak or Thin Sound

Problem: The pickup signal sounds weak or lacks warmth.
Solution:

• Adjust the pickup height closer to the strings.
• Use a preamp or EQ pedal to enhance the signal.
• If using a passive pickup, consider switching to an active one.

3. Background Noise or Buzzing

Problem: A humming or buzzing noise when plugged in.
Solution:

• Check the cable connections for loose plugs.
• Use a hum-canceling pickup (humbucker-style).
• Try a ground lift switch on your amplifier or DI box.

Should You Use a Soundhole Pickup? Pros & Cons

Feature	Pros	Cons
Easy Installation	No modification needed	Can block part of the soundhole
Affordable	Budget-friendly option	Some models sound artificial
Portable	Can be removed when not needed	May pick up string noise
Versatile	Works for live and recording	Feedback issues in loud settings

Soundhole pickups are a great plug-and-play solution for amplifying an acoustic guitar, especially for live performances and home recordings.

Alternative Ways to Amplify an Acoustic Guitar

If you’re exploring different amplification methods, here are some alternatives:

• Microphone – Best for recording but prone to feedback in live settings.
• Undersaddle Pickup – Installed under the bridge for a natural tone.
• Contact Pickup – Attaches to the guitar body for a percussive sound.

Each method has its strengths, but a soundhole pickup remains one of the easiest and most effective options.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose the right pickup – Passive for simplicity, active for more control.
• Install it properly – Secure the pickup in the soundhole and route the cable carefully.
• Use an amp or preamp – Adjust EQ settings to shape your sound.
• Fix feedback and noise – Position the amp correctly and use soundhole covers if needed.
• Experiment with tone adjustments – Blending with a mic or using pedals can improve your sound.

By following these steps, you can confidently amplify your acoustic guitar and get the best tone possible from your soundhole pickup. Happy playing!

Final Thoughts

A soundhole pickup is one of the best ways to amplify an acoustic guitar while maintaining its natural tone. Whether you’re performing, recording, or jamming, using the right pickup can enhance your sound and give you more control over your tone.