Going Electric

[Sotonfan]

I currently have a very nice acoustic – a Masano, made in Japan, for Ivor Mairantz Music Centre in London. However, I’m running into the need for amplification. When I play live, I want to be able to plug straight into an amp; I’d also like this option for recording.

My initial thought is to buy an inexpensive electric-acoustic, just for times I need to plug in, and keep the acoustic for everything else. Or would it make more sense just to have someone install electronics in the guitar I currently have? [I’m just a bit squeamish about having someone doing surgery on this instrument… Maybe that shouldn’t be a concern?]

What’s your advice?
Cheers-
Drew.

 

[stonepiano]

If the Masano is or could someday be a collectors item, then don't add electronics to it. If it's just a nice guitar, then it would only be making it more useful, right?

 

[cstockdale]

Check out the thread about "best pickup for acoustic", Fishman pickups are good, and do not require major surgery for your guitar. The links are in that thread.

 

[Light]

[I’m just a bit squeamish about having someone doing surgery on this instrument… Maybe that shouldn’t be a concern?]

Don't be squeamish, just find someone who is good. All guitars need work on a fairly regular basis due to climate changes. If the work is done by a good repair person, the guitar is only made better by getting the work done. In fact, it is possible to cause more damage to the guitar by not have it taken care of, as long as the repair person is good. Instruments are just like people in that regard, they fall apart and need to have someone put them back together.

As far as the pickup, I would suggest getting a Fishman (or something similar) for live work, but for recording they are a waste of your time and you will never be happy with the sound. Do not bother with a pickup in the studio, use a microphone.


Light

"Cowards can never be moral."
M.K. Gandhi

 

[Sotonfan]

Thanks, everyone. I'm off to check out Fishman pickups. And I'll take your advice, Light, and stick to my trusty SM57 for recording...

Drew.