default236 Posted January 17, 2013 Share Posted January 17, 2013 I've been considering putting in an acoustic pickup lately, but I'm curious as to what the difference is between active and passive pickups. Is there anything to consider when buying one like how easy it is to install? I've been considering this LR Baggs pickup here, http://www.musiciansfriend.com/accessories/lr-baggs-m1-soundhole-pickup but if there are any better ones out there, I would appreciate seeing them, thanks. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CygnusX-1Bk2 Posted January 17, 2013 Share Posted January 17, 2013 I have a couple of the older Dean Markley Pro Mag pickups which are similar to the one you posted. It just rests on the sound hole edges with a foam lined cutout. The sound is ok for live use. I used to have an Ovation with active electronics. They can sound more abrasive than a passive system. The soundhole pickups are a little rounder sounding. With the removable pickups the cable can feel in the way a little. At least the Markley can. Either with passive or active units you may have to work to get a good sound depending on the amp or PA you are running into. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
default236 Posted January 18, 2013 Author Share Posted January 18, 2013 Oh, ok thanks Cyg ;) but if I'm running through a PA and not an amp, would you suggest passive or active pickups or would I just have to judge it by a case by case basis? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CygnusX-1Bk2 Posted January 18, 2013 Share Posted January 18, 2013 Case by case. If you can check either out at a store that would be ideal so you can hear how they sound. Even if you run into an amp and set all of the EQ set to 12 o'clock (flat) then you can hear how colored each pickup is. Whatever can get you either a good neutral tone or something that strikes your ear. Really it comes down to taste. Active pickups can be considerably brighter. Some like it, some don't. If the PA you are using has good EQ on the channels then either should be ok. I think with an active system you may require a bit of EQ wrangling. But you never know. Make sure wherever you buy has a good return policy. :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
default236 Posted January 18, 2013 Author Share Posted January 18, 2013 I will ;), thanks a lot Cyg! I'm gonna go out and try a few more pickups, and see which sounds the best strummed and finger picked, appreciate it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
micgtr71 Posted January 27, 2013 Share Posted January 27, 2013 In my experience, the LR Baggs active element is a great pickup for live and recording situations. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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