Classical guitars have such a beautiful, warm tone. But amplifying that sound without losing its natural character can be tricky. Many players struggle to find the right pickup that accurately captures the nuances of their nylon-stringed instruments. I’ve spent years experimenting with different pickups, and I'm excited to share my top picks for amplifying your nylon guitar while preserving its unique voice.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- LR Baggs LB6: Known for its natural sound and ease of installation.
- Fishman Rare Earth Nylon: A magnetic soundhole pickup offering a warm and balanced tone.
- Shadow SH 1900: A versatile pickup system with both undersaddle and microphone options.
- Mi-Si Acoustic Trio Vio: A battery-free system providing a clean and clear sound.
- Dazzo PPU for Classical Guitar: High-end option for detail and dynamic range.
Top 5 Best Nylon Guitar Pickups
1. LR Baggs LB6
The LR Baggs LB6 is a popular choice for nylon-string guitars due to its simplicity and ability to deliver a natural amplified sound. It replaces the existing saddle, making it relatively straightforward to install. It's a passive system, meaning no batteries are required.
Pros:
- ✅ Natural and warm tone
- ✅ Simple installation (replaces existing saddle)
- ✅ No battery required
Cons:
- ❌ Can be prone to feedback at high volumes
- ❌ Doesn't offer tone controls
- ❌ Output level might be lower compared to active pickups
Verdict: Great for players who want a simple, natural-sounding pickup without the need for batteries or complicated controls.
2. Fishman Rare Earth Nylon
The Fishman Rare Earth Nylon is a magnetic soundhole pickup designed specifically for nylon-string guitars. It provides a warm and balanced tone, making it suitable for various playing styles. Its easy installation and adjustable pole pieces make it a convenient choice for many guitarists.
Pros:
- ✅ Warm and balanced tone
- ✅ Easy installation (soundhole pickup)
- ✅ Adjustable pole pieces for string balance
Cons:
- ❌ Magnetic pickups can sound less natural compared to undersaddle or microphone systems
- ❌ May not fit all guitar soundholes
- ❌ Can be visually intrusive for some players
Verdict: A good option for players seeking a quick and easy way to amplify their nylon guitar with a warm, balanced tone, but keep in mind the magnetic sound may not be for everyone.
3. Shadow SH 1900
The Shadow SH 1900 is a comprehensive pickup system that combines an undersaddle transducer with an internal microphone. This allows for a blend of both direct and acoustic tones, giving you more control over your amplified sound. The preamp includes EQ controls for further tone shaping.
Pros:
- ✅ Combines undersaddle and microphone for versatile tone
- ✅ Onboard EQ controls for tone shaping
- ✅ Offers a more natural and detailed sound
Cons:
- ❌ More complex installation compared to simpler systems
- ❌ Requires a battery
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options
Verdict: Ideal for players who want maximum control over their amplified sound and are willing to invest in a more complex and versatile system.
4. Mi-Si Acoustic Trio Vio
The Mi-Si Acoustic Trio Vio is a battery-free undersaddle pickup system that uses a custom-designed preamp. A supercapacitor is charged via a wall wart and gives you hours of playing time. The result is a clean and clear amplified sound without the hassle of batteries.
Pros:
- ✅ Battery-free operation
- ✅ Clean and clear sound
- ✅ Easy to install
Cons:
- ❌ Requires charging before use
- ❌ Can be more expensive than battery-powered systems
- ❌ Some users report a slightly different tone compared to battery-powered options
Verdict: A great choice for environmentally conscious players who want a reliable, battery-free pickup system with a clear and natural sound.
5. Dazzo PPU for Classical Guitar
The Dazzo PPU (Pickup Point Unit) is a high-end option designed for exceptional detail and dynamic range. Unlike traditional undersaddle pickups, the Dazzo uses multiple small sensors attached to the guitar's soundboard. This captures a more complex and nuanced sound.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional detail and dynamic range
- ✅ Captures a more natural and nuanced sound
- ✅ High-quality components
Cons:
- ❌ More complex installation requiring precision
- ❌ Can be very expensive
- ❌ May require professional installation
Verdict: For serious players seeking the highest possible fidelity and dynamic range, the Dazzo PPU is a top-tier choice, but be prepared for a more involved installation and higher price point.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right nylon guitar pickup involves considering several factors. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:
- Sound Quality: Consider the type of sound you're after. Do you want a warm, mellow tone, or a brighter, more articulate sound? Listen to demos of different pickups to get a sense of their sonic characteristics.
- Installation: How comfortable are you with modifying your guitar? Some pickups are easy to install, while others require professional installation. Factor in the cost of professional installation if necessary.
- Power Source: Do you prefer battery-powered or battery-free systems? Battery-powered pickups offer consistent performance, but require battery changes. Battery-free systems are more environmentally friendly but may require charging.
- Budget: Pickups range in price from affordable to very expensive. Determine your budget and stick to it. Remember that a higher price doesn't always guarantee better sound.
- Playing Style: Consider your playing style and the type of music you play. Some pickups are better suited for fingerstyle playing, while others are better for strumming.
- Feedback Resistance: If you play in loud environments, consider a pickup with good feedback resistance. Undersaddle pickups are generally more resistant to feedback than soundhole pickups.
FAQs
Q: What is an undersaddle pickup?
A: An undersaddle pickup is a type of transducer that sits beneath the saddle of your guitar. It senses the vibrations of the strings and converts them into an electrical signal.
Q: Do I need a preamp for my nylon guitar pickup?
A: Most nylon guitar pickups benefit from a preamp, which boosts the signal and provides tone-shaping options. Some pickups have built-in preamps, while others require an external preamp.
Q: Can I install a pickup myself?
A: Some pickups are easy to install, while others require more technical expertise. If you're not comfortable working on your guitar, it's best to have a professional install the pickup.
Q: What is the difference between a magnetic and an undersaddle pickup?
A: Magnetic pickups sense the vibrations of the strings directly, while undersaddle pickups sense the vibrations of the bridge. Magnetic pickups tend to have a warmer, more electric sound, while undersaddle pickups tend to have a brighter, more acoustic sound.
Q: How do I choose the right pickup for my guitar?
A: Consider your playing style, the type of sound you want, your budget, and your comfort level with installation. Listen to demos of different pickups and read reviews to help you make a decision.
Conclusion
Finding the right nylon guitar pickup can significantly enhance your playing experience. Whether you prioritize natural sound, ease of installation, or versatile tone controls, there's a pickup out there to suit your needs. By carefully considering your options and following the tips in this guide, you can find the perfect pickup to amplify your nylon guitar and share its beautiful sound with the world.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
