Non-invasive Amplification

[Walkerman]

What is the best non-invasive way to amplify an acoustic (other than mic'ing).

[Randy_R]

What is the best non-invasive way to amplify an acoustic (other than mic'ing).

get a soundhole pickup that can slip in and out easily. The cord will dangle accross the face of the instrument.

There is a new style that includes 1) magnetic pickup 2) microphone and 3) vibrations sensitive element. I need to remember who makes these so I can get one for myself.

[guitaradoptions]

I would suggest an LR Baggs M1 or a Schertler Dyn-G.

[rpg51]

Schertler Dyn-G.  Expensive.  But very good.

But, if you are recording only, why not mic it?  Nothing better than a good mic.

If you are playing out - Dyn G is very very good and completely non-invasive.

[GIGGLER]

Markley pro-mag is easy to use....might test drive one for kicks.

[Walkerman]

I would suggest an LR Baggs M1 or a Schertler Dyn-G.

With these types, do I need to run it through something before it goes into the amp?  I am thinking of the Baggs M1, and would either be getting an untrasound or a strawberry blonde......

[Denis]

I would suggest an LR Baggs M1 or a Schertler Dyn-G.

There was a review of the Baggs M1 online with short videos...can't remember exactly where it was but the sound is very natural.  I would think the active one is even better but more expensive.

[tbc]

If by "non-invasive" you mean not cutting a whole in the side of the guitar you might want to look at the KK pure western pickup. Very easy to install but it is designed to come out through an end pin plug. Is that too invasive?

[bri]

I have an M1 going through a PADI. works really well

[Walkerman]

If by "non-invasive" you mean not cutting a whole in the side of the guitar you might want to look at the KK pure western pickup. Very easy to install but it is designed to come out through an end pin plug. Is that too invasive?

Yes, it is, because I want to be able to use it for different guitars.
And that brings me to another question...for the 2 amps I mentioned...ultrasound and strawberry blonde...can you plug more that one guitar into them?  I'd like to be able to play along with my kids, but I'd like to get by with one amp, if possible.  It would just be for playing at family get-togethers, and small things like that...

[Escalibore]

The rig I just sold would work very well for you:

* Fishman Rare Earth Custom Blend Pickup
* Fishman Platinum-Pro EQ

Very natural sound, perfect for the applications you've described.

[rpg51]

There is a terrific review of good quality pick ups, including non-invasive pick ups, at http://www.fingerpick.com/pickups.htm.  Check it out. 

The Schertler strikes me as by a long shot the very best - especially if you are intending to move it from guitar to guitar frequently.  It is pricey however.

[rpg51]

There is a terrific review of good quality pick ups, including non-invasive pick ups, at http://www.fingerpick.com/pickups.htm.  Check it out. 

The Schertler strikes me as by a long shot the very best - especially if you are intending to move it from guitar to guitar frequently.  It is pricey however.