Best Acoustic Guitars With Pickups: Recommendations & Reviews

Sep 1, 2025 by RICHARD 62 views

Hey everyone! So, you're on the hunt for an acoustic guitar with a pickup, huh? Awesome choice! Whether you're a seasoned pro hitting the stage, a weekend warrior jamming with friends, or just someone who wants to amplify their sound at home, having a pickup on your acoustic opens up a world of possibilities. But with so many guitars out there, figuring out which one is right for you can feel a bit overwhelming. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered. Let's dive into some recommendations and reviews to help you find the perfect acoustic guitar with pickup.

Why Get an Acoustic Guitar with Pickup?

First things first, why bother with an acoustic guitar with a pickup in the first place? Well, the main reason is pretty obvious: amplification. While the natural acoustic sound of your guitar is beautiful, it doesn't always cut through the mix, especially in a band setting or larger venues. A pickup allows you to plug your guitar into an amplifier or PA system, making your sound louder and clearer.

Beyond just volume, pickups also offer a lot of versatility. You can shape your tone with effects pedals, add reverb, delay, chorus – whatever your heart desires! This opens up creative avenues you wouldn't have with a purely acoustic instrument. Plus, recording with a pickup is much easier. You can get a great sound without having to mess around with microphones and room acoustics.

Another advantage is the ability to easily control your volume. Having a pickup gives you a dedicated volume knob on your guitar, allowing you to make quick adjustments to your sound during a performance. This is incredibly useful for dynamic control, letting you emphasize certain parts of a song or adjust to changes in the overall mix.

Ultimately, the best acoustic guitar with pickup for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the style of music you play, your budget, and the features that are most important to you.

Types of Acoustic Guitar Pickups

Before we jump into specific guitar models, let's briefly cover the different types of pickups available. Understanding these will help you make a more informed decision. There are a few main categories:

Soundhole Pickups: These are probably the most common and easiest to install. They clamp into the soundhole of your guitar and often have a magnetic design, similar to electric guitar pickups. They're relatively affordable and provide a decent amplified sound.
Under-Saddle Transducers (USTs): These pickups sit underneath the saddle of your guitar, sensing the vibrations of the strings through the bridge. They generally produce a more natural and balanced sound than soundhole pickups but can be more sensitive to string noise and body tapping.
Acoustic-Electric Guitars: Many guitars come with built-in pickups and preamp systems, which often include a UST and a built-in preamp with EQ controls. These guitars are ready to plug in and play and offer a lot of tonal control.
Microphone Pickups: These use a microphone to capture the acoustic sound of your guitar. They often produce the most natural and detailed sound but can be more prone to feedback, especially on stage.
Hybrid Systems: Some guitars have a combination of different pickups, such as a UST and a soundhole pickup. These systems can give you the best of both worlds, offering a versatile range of tones.

Each type of pickup has its own strengths and weaknesses, so consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing your acoustic guitar with pickup.

Top Acoustic Guitars with Pickups: Recommendations

Alright, now for the good stuff! Here are some recommendations for acoustic guitars with pickups, broken down by price range and intended use. These are just a few of the many great guitars out there, so be sure to do your own research and try out different models before making a decision.

Budget-Friendly Options (Under $500)

Yamaha FG800 Series: The Yamaha FG800 series is a legendary choice for beginners and experienced players alike. They offer incredible value for the money, with solid construction, a comfortable neck, and a great acoustic sound. You can easily add an aftermarket pickup to these guitars, making them a great starting point. You can find a wide range of options, from the Yamaha FG800 with a basic pickup system to more advanced models with built-in electronics.
Blueridge BR-40: If you're after a guitar that sounds much more expensive than it is, the Blueridge BR-40 is a fantastic option. These guitars feature a solid Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a comfortable neck. They typically come with a good quality pickup installed. The BR-40 delivers a warm, rich tone that's perfect for fingerpicking and strumming.
Epiphone DR-100: The Epiphone DR-100 is another popular choice for beginners. It's a dreadnought-style guitar that's known for its affordability and ease of play. While it doesn't always come with a pickup, it's a great starting point for adding one. With a little bit of investment, you can easily equip it with a decent soundhole or UST pickup system.

Mid-Range Options ($500 - $1500)

Taylor GS Mini-e: The Taylor GS Mini-e is a compact but powerful guitar with a huge sound. It's comfortable to play, easy to transport, and boasts a built-in ES2 pickup system that delivers a clear and articulate amplified sound. The GS Mini-e is perfect for gigging, recording, or just playing at home.
Martin Road Series: Martin is a name that needs no introduction. Their Road Series guitars offer exceptional quality and craftsmanship at a more accessible price point. They come with Fishman electronics, which are known for their natural and accurate sound reproduction. The Road Series provides a great blend of acoustic and amplified performance.
Fender Acoustasonic Series: Fender's Acoustasonic series combines the best of acoustic and electric guitars. These guitars feature a unique blend of acoustic body shapes and electric guitar-style controls. They offer a variety of acoustic voices and a built-in pickup system that allows you to blend the acoustic sounds with electric guitar tones. This gives you incredible versatility.

High-End Options (Over $1500)

Martin Standard Series: If you're serious about your acoustic guitar with pickup, investing in a Martin Standard Series guitar is an excellent choice. These guitars are handcrafted with premium materials and feature exceptional build quality. They typically come with high-end electronics that deliver an outstanding amplified sound. While the initial investment is significant, a Martin Standard Series guitar is an investment that will last a lifetime.
Taylor 814ce: The Taylor 814ce is a top-of-the-line guitar with stunning aesthetics, exceptional playability, and a phenomenal amplified sound. It features Taylor's Expression System 2 pickup system, which captures the natural nuances of your playing. It's a truly inspiring instrument for serious musicians.
Gibson Acoustic Guitars: Gibson is another legendary name in the guitar world. Their acoustic guitars are known for their rich, warm tones and classic designs. Many Gibson acoustic guitars come with built-in electronics, making them ready for the stage or studio. They offer a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Guitar with Pickup

When you're in the market for an acoustic guitar with pickup, several factors should influence your decision. Here's what to keep in mind:

Budget: The price range for acoustic guitars with pickups varies widely. Decide how much you're willing to spend before you start your search. Remember that you'll often get what you pay for. While budget-friendly options can be a great starting point, higher-end guitars typically offer better build quality, materials, and sound.
Body Style: Different body styles produce different tones. Dreadnoughts are loud and balanced, grand auditoriums offer a versatile range, and smaller-bodied guitars are often more comfortable to play. Consider which body style best suits your playing style and preferences.
Wood Types: The woods used in the construction of your guitar significantly impact its tone. Solid wood tops generally sound better than laminate tops. Common tonewoods include spruce (bright and articulate), mahogany (warm and balanced), and rosewood (rich and complex).
Pickup System: As discussed earlier, there are various types of pickup systems. Consider which type best suits your needs and preferences. Built-in preamp systems offer more control but can be more expensive. Soundhole pickups are easy to install but may not capture the full acoustic sound of your guitar.
Playability: Make sure the guitar is comfortable to play. Pay attention to the neck profile, string action, and overall feel of the instrument. It's best to try out a guitar in person before you buy it if possible.
Brand Reputation: Research different brands and read reviews from other players. Well-known brands often have a reputation for quality and customer service. However, don't be afraid to explore lesser-known brands that may offer excellent value.
Intended Use: Consider where you'll be using the guitar most often. Are you primarily playing at home, gigging, or recording? This will help you determine the features and performance levels that are most important.

Tips for Buying and Using Your Acoustic Guitar with Pickup

Once you've chosen your acoustic guitar with pickup, here are a few tips to get the most out of it:

Try Before You Buy: If possible, visit a guitar store and try out different models. This will give you a better idea of the sound, feel, and playability of each guitar.
Consider the Pickup Type: Different pickup systems will capture your guitar's sound in different ways. If possible, try guitars with different pickup systems to figure out what works best for you.
Get a Professional Setup: A professional setup can make a huge difference in playability and intonation. Have your guitar set up by a qualified technician to ensure it plays its best.
Experiment with Amplification: Explore different amplifiers and PA systems to find the one that sounds best with your guitar. Experiment with EQ settings to shape your tone.
Use Quality Cables: Invest in high-quality instrument cables to minimize noise and signal loss.
Practice Regularly: The more you play, the better you'll get at mastering your guitar and its amplified sound. Experiment with different playing techniques and find your own unique style.
Care for Your Guitar: Store your guitar in a case when not in use, and keep it in a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage.
Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: The beauty of the guitar is that there's always something new to learn. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques, tunings, and effects to find your own sound.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect acoustic guitar with pickup takes a little research and effort, but it's well worth it. Consider your budget, playing style, and the features you need. From budget-friendly options like the Yamaha FG800 to high-end models like the Martin Standard Series, there's a guitar out there for everyone. So, go out there, try some guitars, and find the one that speaks to you. Happy playing, and I hope this guide helps you on your musical journey, guys!