March 6

Best Acoustic Guitar Preamps for 2024

Acoustic guitar preamps play a critical role in achieving the perfect sound by enhancing and shaping the sound of your guitar. That’s why we’ll discuss the best acoustic guitar preamps to help you make an informed decision.

Acoustic preamps come in different shapes and sizes, but they all share the same goal: to give you control over your guitar’s tone. When choosing a preamp, it’s essential to consider factors like sound quality, ease of use, and connectivity options.

Knowing this, we set out on a quest to bring you a comprehensive guide to the best acoustic guitar preamps. Let our countless hours of research and testing be your guide in finding the perfect preamp for your needs.

What is an Acoustic Guitar Preamp?

We all love the sound of an acoustic guitar. But when it comes to amplifying it, a simple microphone isn’t always enough. That’s where acoustic guitar preamps come in.

A preamp boosts the guitar’s signal before it reaches the amplifier or recording device. This results in a stronger and cleaner sound, ensuring your guitar tones shine through without getting lost in the mix.

There are three main types of acoustic guitar preamps:

  • Onboard preamps: Installed inside the guitar’s body.
  • Outboard preamps: Standalone devices, usually in the form of pedals or racks.
  • Microphone preamps: For those who prefer using microphones, these preamps treat the mic’s signal.

Each type has its pros and cons. Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and preferences. Now that you know what an acoustic guitar preamp is, you’re ready to explore the options and find the one that suits your playing style best.

Why You Need a Preamp for Your Acoustic Guitar?

When playing an acoustic guitar, we often struggle to get that perfect sound. That’s where a preamp comes in.

A preamp boosts your guitar’s sound, providing clarity and volume. Trust us, you’ll love the difference! Let’s look at a few key benefits:

  1. No more weak signals: Preamps strengthen weak signals, making your sound powerful and crisp.
  2. Customize your sound: Get the perfect tone by tweaking EQ, gain, and volume controls.
  3. Reduced noise: Good preamps keep your sound clean, filtering out unwanted noise.

Investing in a quality preamp? You’ll notice the difference in your acoustic guitar’s performance. Your audience will thank you.

Best Acoustic Guitar Preamps

We’ve gathered the top acoustic guitar preamps for you to enhance your sound and performance.

LR Baggs Para Acoustic D.I.

We highly recommend this preamp for its powerful tone shaping and rock-solid reliability.

Pros

  • Adjustable gain for passive and active pickups
  • 5 band EQ with tuneable notch and midrange bands
  • Quality DI output for pristine sound

Cons

  • Requires 9V battery or phantom power
  • Some users may find it a bit costly
  • Might experience slight learning curve

The LR Baggs Para Acoustic D.I. has become a popular stage tool for musicians across the globe. We’ve found its studio quality performance and powerful tone shaping EQ to be standout features. The 5 band EQ, tuneable midrange, and notch offer excellent customization options for your sound.

This preamp is also very reliable. We’ve used it on multiple occasions without any issues. The adjustable gain is perfect for both passive and active pickups, ensuring your acoustic guitar sounds its best in any setting. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need either a 9V battery or 48V phantom power to use this preamp.

Overall, the LR Baggs Para Acoustic D.I. is an indispensable tool for any musician looking to enhance their acoustic guitar sound. With its powerful tone shaping capabilities and reliable performance, it’s definitely worth considering for your next preamp purchase.

Fishman Aura Spectrum DI

A must-have for acoustic players looking for versatile, studio-quality sound enhancement on stage or in the studio.

Pros

  • Acoustic Imaging with 128 images
  • Professional-grade DI box
  • Built-in tuner, EQ, and compressor

Cons

  • Could feel complex for some users
  • Selector not smooth
  • Pricey compared to competitors

We are huge fans of the Fishman Aura Spectrum DI. Its award-winning Acoustic Imaging technology offers an impressive array of 128 pre-loaded images for various popular acoustic instruments. The professional-level DI, compressor, tuner, and EQ make it a comprehensive, all-in-one solution.

Don’t worry about setting up in a hurry. This pedal is perfect for fast-paced festival gigs with quick turnarounds. The Aura Spectrum DI ensures your tone is top-notch from the moment you plug in. Your performance will never sound scratchy or unpleasant.

However, while it’s a fantastic pedal, the sound selector doesn’t feel as smooth as expected. Despite the learning curve, we think the pros outweigh the cons. Give the Fishman Aura Spectrum DI a try, and you might be surprised at the difference it makes in your live or recorded sound.

Boss AD-2 Acoustic Preamp

We highly recommend the Boss AD-2 Preamp for enhancing your acoustic guitar’s live sound.

Pros

  • Natural studio-quality sound
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Essential live tools included

Cons

  • Slight sound difference between settings
  • Some may find the sound too warm
  • May require an additional volume boost

The Boss AD-2 Acoustic Preamp offers an ideal solution for electro-acoustic guitar players seeking top-notch sound quality. This compact device boasts a powerful sound processor, which elevates its performance significantly.

“Acoustic Resonance” is the standout feature, replicating unamplified guitar tones by mimicking complex resonant vibrations. Additionally, the Ambience effect adds a sense of space specifically optimized for acoustic guitars.

When it comes to live performances, the AD-2 has you covered. A notch filter helps suppress feedback, while the balanced DI output makes connecting to a PA system a breeze. For added convenience, there’s also a mute function for tuning or swapping guitars.

Although some users might find the sound a bit warm or too subtle between settings, the Boss AD-2 Acoustic Preamp remains a solid choice. With its user-friendly design and studio-quality sound, it’s a valuable addition to any acoustic guitarist’s live setup.

Behringer ADI21 V-Tone Acoustic Driver DI Box

You’ll love this affordable preamp for enhancing your acoustic guitar’s sound.

Pros

  • Warm, natural sound
  • Sweepable mids for feedback control
  • Competes with leading products

Cons

  • AC adapter not included
  • Plastic casing
  • Requires 9V battery

We tried the Behringer ADI21 and found it perfect for players wanting a richer acoustic sound. Its analog modeling does an impressive job, giving your guitar a warm, natural tone.

The ultra-musical 3-band EQ shines with its sweepable mids, allowing you to eliminate harsh harmonics and control feedback. It matches up well with higher-priced preamps, giving you great value.

However, keep in mind that the AC adapter is not included and you’ll need a 9V battery. Also, the plastic casing might not be ideal for some. Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Behringer ADI21 is a fantastic choice for enhancing your acoustic guitar’s sound.

Radial Tonebone PZ-Pre Acoustic Preamp

This preamp is a must-have for dynamic and powerful acoustic performances.

Pros

  • Piezo acoustic input signal boosters
  • Studio and live performance use
  • Unique Mix function

Cons

  • Occasional buzzing issue
  • Overpriced for some users
  • Lacks separate EQs for each channel

As an acoustic musician, you know that finding the perfect preamp can be a game-changer. The Radial Tonebone PZ-Pre Acoustic Preamp brings your sound and tone to a whole new level. With piezo acoustic input signal boosters, this preamp allows for a more natural rendering of your guitar’s sound.

In addition to its great sound quality, the PZ-Pre is designed for both studio and live performance. Its two inputs allow for toggling between two instruments or blending the sounds of two pickups on one guitar. The preamp’s tone shaping features are easy to use, with powerful bass and high controls, as well as a semi-parametric mid control.

The PZ-Pre also offers an array of output options, making it one of the most versatile preamps on the market. Its standard instrument amp output, pre-EQ balanced output, and an effects loop make it perfect for any guitarist’s needs. However, keep in mind that some users report occasional buzzing issues, and others find it overpriced.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a powerful and versatile acoustic preamp, the Radial Tonebone PZ-Pre is an excellent choice. Just be prepared to troubleshoot buzzing issues and decide if the price fits your budget.

L.R. Baggs Venue DI Acoustic Guitar Preamp

We recommend the L.R. Baggs Venue DI for its versatility, sound quality, and premium features.

Pros

  • Adjustable gain for various pickups
  • Tunable 5-band EQ for precise sound control
  • Effective feedback control with notch filter

Cons

  • Expensive as compared to competitors
  • Tuner function can be erratic
  • Picks up radio signals when using XLR cable

We used the L.R. Baggs Venue DI and loved the control it provided over our guitar’s tone. Its 5-band EQ allows precise tuning for both low-mid and high-mid bands, making sure your sound is dialed in just right. The Garret Null notch filter is a lifesaver for battling feedback, ensuring your performance stays crisp and clear.

On top of great tone control, the L.R. Baggs Venue DI also features a footswitch for a clean volume boost. This comes in handy when you need that extra volume during solos or specific sections of a song. The full chromatic tuner, while it can be erratic, is still present and useful for quick tuning on stage.

However, it’s not all perfect. The tuner may require multiple presses to respond, and users have reported radio signals interfering with sound when using an XLR connection. Despite these minor issues, the L.R. Baggs Venue DI remains a top choice for its impressive sound quality and versatility.

Fishman Platinum Pro EQ DI Preamp

This preamp is an excellent choice for enhancing your acoustic guitar sound both onstage and in the studio.

Pros

  • Crisp and natural acoustic sound
  • Useful 5-band equalizer
  • Handy onboard tuner

Cons

  • Slightly pricey
  • Power source is corded electric
  • Bulky design

We recently tested the Fishman Platinum Pro EQ DI Preamp and were impressed with its performance. It delivers a crystal-clear acoustic guitar sound that fills any room without fear of feedback. Dialing in your desired tone is a breeze with the easy-to-use controls and 5-band equalizer.

The onboard tuner is a helpful addition, ensuring your guitar stays perfectly in tune throughout your performance or recording session. Plus, the footswitchable boost and effects loop provide flexibility for shaping your sound even further.

One drawback is the corded electric power source, which may limit its portability for some musicians. Additionally, its somewhat bulky design might not be a perfect fit for every performer’s setup. However, these minor drawbacks are far outweighed by the impressive sound quality and versatility of this preamp.

Fishman ToneDEQ Acoustic Preamp

Acoustic guitarists will find this preamp a valuable addition to their gear.

Pros

  • Crystal-clear Class A instrument preamp
  • 3-band EQ with low cut filter
  • Variety of AFX digital effects

Cons

  • May not be perfect for everyone
  • Requires 9V battery
  • Some users reported issues with used units

If you’re an acoustic guitarist looking to enhance your sound, the Fishman ToneDEQ Acoustic Instrument Preamp is a top choice. It comes packed with features to give you full control over your tone.

Equipped with a crystal-clear Class A instrument preamp, this device is designed to deliver the true sound of your guitar’s acoustic pickup. You can shape your tone further using the onboard 3-band EQ and low cut filter. No need to worry about feedback during performances – the phase switch has got you covered.

What sets the Fishman ToneDEQ apart from other preamps are its AFX digital effects. It includes reverb, chorus, and delay, allowing you to dial in your desired sound for any venue. The effects are tailored specifically for acoustic instruments, so they’ll make your guitar sing.

On the downside, it’s worth noting that this preamp relies on a 9V battery for power, so be prepared to have a few spares on hand. Also, some users reported issues with used or open-box units, so it’s safer to buy new.

Overall, the Fishman ToneDEQ Acoustic Instrument Preamp offers excellent sound quality and versatility in a compact, easy-to-use package. We’re confident it’ll be a fantastic addition to your acoustic guitar rig.

Fender Acoustic Preamp/Reverb Pedal

This Fender pedal is worth considering for acoustic guitarists seeking improved tone and ambience.

Pros

  • Enhances natural beauty of guitar
  • Three reverb settings
  • Feedback elimination features

Cons

  • Unnecessary for some setups
  • Limited control options
  • Possible durability issues

You’re an aspiring musician and your acoustic guitar is your closest companion. If you want to elevate your sound, the Fender Acoustic Preamp/Reverb Pedal might be an excellent choice. It comes with three different reverb settings, helping you find the perfect ambience for your performance.

The Fender pedal offers a notch filter and polarity switch to eliminate annoying feedback. This feature is great when you want to play at full volume in front of a crowd. With the tilt knob, you can control your overall EQ balance for an even better sound experience.

However, some users have found this pedal to be unnecessary, especially if their mixing console already features built-in reverb. Others report that it stopped working after a few months. So, while it offers some great features, consider if the Fender Acoustic Preamp/Reverb Pedal is the best fit for your guitar setup.

Buying Guide: Key Features to Look for in an Acoustic Guitar Preamp

EQ Controls

We all know that tone is crucial. With EQ controls, you can shape your sound just the way you want it. Most preamps offer basic features like bass, mid, and treble adjustments. However, some provide even more control, with parametric EQs or multiple mid bands.

Feedback Control

Nobody likes feedback – it’s annoying and distracting. Luckily, many acoustic guitar preamps have built-in feedback control. This feature helps you reduce those unwelcome noises while maintaining your sound’s quality. It’s a lifesaver, especially during live performances!

Effects Loop

If you use effects pedals, an effects loop is essential. This feature lets you connect your pedals directly to the preamp. It keeps your signal chain clean, and your tone crisp. It is perfect for musicians who love experimenting with different sounds and effects.

Tip
Look for a preamp with a dedicated effects loop – you won’t regret it!

DI Output

When recording or playing live, a DI output is a game-changer. With this feature, you can connect your preamp directly to a mixing board or recording interface. It simplifies your setup and gives you a clean, balanced signal that sounds great.

  • Direct connection = less clutter
  • Balanced signal = better sound
  • Simple setup = happy musician

Tuner

Last but not least, a built-in tuner is a handy feature in any acoustic guitar preamp. It helps ensure you’re always in tune and ready to rock. Some preamps even have silent tuning, allowing you to tune without making a sound during a performance. How cool is that?

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a preamp and a DI box?

A preamp boosts your guitar’s signal, making it stronger. A DI box converts the signal to a balanced one. They both improve sound quality, but in differing ways.

Do I need a preamp if my acoustic guitar already has built-in electronics?

If your guitar has built-in electronics, it has a preamp already. However, using an external preamp can offer more control and better sound quality.

What are the benefits of having built-in effects like reverb or chorus in a preamp?

Built-in effects like reverb or chorus can enhance your live performance. They add depth and color to your guitar sound without needing extra pedals.

How do I connect an acoustic guitar preamp to my guitar and PA system/speaker?

First, plug your guitar into the preamp’s input with a standard instrument cable. Then, connect the preamp output to a PA system or speaker using a balanced XLR cable. Now, you’re ready to perform!


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