15 best electric violin pickups

Electric violin pickups are devices used to capture the sound of a violin and convert it into an electrical signal. This signal can then be amplified and manipulated electronically, allowing violinists to produce a louder and more versatile sound. Here are some key points related to electric violin pickups:

  1. Types of Pickups: There are several types of pickups designed for electric violins, including:

    • Piezoelectric Pickups: These are among the most common types of pickups for electric violins. Piezoelectric pickups are typically mounted on or under the bridge of the violin. They work by converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals when the strings are played.

    • Magnetic Pickups: Magnetic pickups are similar to those used in electric guitars. They use magnets to detect the vibrations of the strings and generate an electrical signal. Magnetic pickups are often placed beneath the strings.

    • Microphone Pickups: Some electric violins are equipped with built-in microphones that capture the sound of the instrument acoustically and convert it into an electrical signal.

    • Combination Pickups: Some electric violins feature a combination of different pickup types to provide a wider range of tonal options.

  2. Mounting Options: Electric violin pickups can be mounted in various ways, including:

    • Bridge-Mounted: Many piezoelectric pickups are mounted on or under the bridge. This placement allows them to directly capture the vibrations of the strings.

    • Tailpiece-Mounted: Some pickups are attached to the tailpiece of the violin, which can also be an effective location for capturing vibrations.

    • Body-Mounted: Magnetic pickups are often mounted on the body of the violin, beneath the strings or near the endpin.

    • Built-In: Some electric violins come with integrated pickups, which are built into the instrument itself.

  3. Tonal Characteristics: Different types of pickups can produce varying tonal characteristics. Piezoelectric pickups tend to provide a more natural and acoustic-like sound, while magnetic pickups can produce a brighter and more electric-sounding tone. The choice of pickup can significantly impact the overall sound of the electric violin.

  4. Preamps: Electric violins with pickups often include built-in preamps or require external preamp units.Preamps help shape and control the tone of the instrument and may offer features like tone control, volume adjustment, and EQ settings.

  5. Amplification: To use an electric violin, players connect it to an amplifier or a sound system. This amplification allows the violinist to achieve higher volume levels and can also enable the use of various effects pedals and processors for creative sound manipulation.

  6. Versatility: Electric violin pickups make the instrument more versatile and suitable for various musical genres, including rock, jazz, and experimental music. They are commonly used in bands, orchestras, and solo performances where amplified sound is required.

In summary, electric violin pickups are essential components for electric violins, enabling violinists to amplify and shape their sound for various musical contexts. The choice of pickup type, placement, and accompanying preamp and amplification equipment can greatly influence the tonal qualities and capabilities of an electric violin.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best electric violin pickups on the market
  

Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder: An Entertaining & Delicious Cozy Mystery with Recipes (A Hannah Swensen Mystery Book 27)

Based on 330 reviews Check latest price

MonkeyJack Electric Violin Pickup 4/4 Bridge Preamp Tone & Volume Knob Endpin Jack Set

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

- Electric Violin Pickup Bridge Preamp Set for 4/4 Violin

- Includeds tone knob, volume knob, pickup bar with 2.5mm plug, 4/4 bridge, pickup with transducer and 6.35mm jack

- Suit for 4/4 violin

- Material: Metal, plastic, wood

Package Includes:

1 Set Pickup Bridge Preamp

  • Electric Violin Pickup Bridge Preamp Set for 4/4 Violin
  • Includeds tone knob, volume knob, pickup bar with 2.5mm plug, 4/4 bridge, pickup with transducer and 6.35mm jack
  • Suit for 4/4 violin
  • Material: Metal, plastic, wood

Fishman V-200 Classic Series Professional Violin Pickup

Fishman

Based on 107 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The same pickup element as the V-100, the V-200 employs a Carpenter-style, 1/4' output jack which mounts on the side of the instrument with chinrest-style hardware. An impedance-matching preamp is recommended, but not required. Easy installation with no alteration!

  • Piezo-ceramic pickup
  • Lightweight to minimize muting
  • An impedance matching preamp isrecommended, but not required
  • Easy installation with no alteration

User questions & answers

Question: Does this pickup work for viola
Answer: Hey, David. I use mine for a violin and haven't tried it on a viola. Are a violin bridge and a viola bridge the same size? Of they are, then it should work fine as little metal/copper part of the pickup is secured into the bridge. The piece is small enough that I know it wouldnt work for a cello, but Im not 100% sure about the viola.
Question: Does this pickup make a muted sound at all since it’s connected to the bridge
Answer: It does a bit, but is still by far the best pickup for a Acoustic instrument.
Question: How to fix on the violin? I can not see on your pictures
Answer: The bar goes under the bottom edge of the violin. Tighten with the bar provided
Question: Any luck finding any other clip on pickups?? Is Barcus Berry Worse? Is the Preamp Necessary for live stuff
Answer: This clip is far from ideal, but it's the only one I've used. Your violin repair person may have to widen the curlicue on the bridge to accomodate it. If your not careful, you can snap a small piece of the bridge off. You do need a preamp. Get one with Bass, Trebble and Mid controls. I think Fishman makes one. Barcus Berry I don't know.

Product features

Fishman V-200

The same pickup element as the V-100, the V-200 employs a Carpenter-style, 1/4″ output jack which mounts on the side of the instrument with chinrest-style hardware. When paired with an impedance-matching preamp, such as our Platinum Stage, Platinum Pro EQ or Powerjack, the full potential of the V-200 can be realized.

Inspired

We love music, and we are continually inspired by musicians to create tools for them that in turn motivate us forward.

Performance

We are always striving to perform at our highest levels, delivering value and quality, and respecting our customers’ hard work and investment in our products.

Technology

Since the very beginning, Fishman has been about making intricate technologies workable for musicians. Harnessing them in ways that are functional, affordable, robust and repeatable.

A Letter from the President

Fishman is dedicated to helping musicians of all styles achieve the truest sound possible wherever and whenever they plug in. Our ongoing commitment to professional sound and quality has helped our company grow to become one of the industry leader in amplification, effects, and pickups for acoustic and electric instruments, MIDI control, and other product categories. The loyalty from our extended family of players, technicians, repair professionals, and instrument manufacturers, is really a result of our loyalty toward them. This bond goes beyond product alone, but also extends to our customer service, interaction and support.

After 35 years, you still have my promise that Fishman will always endeavor to be the best at what we do, but most importantly to make you sound your absolute best.

Thanks to all of you who have chosen Fishman. Have a great gig.

-Larry Fishman, President.

Set Violin EQ Piezo Pickup Preamp w/Headphone Plug For Electric Violin Instrumnent Accs

Product description

Description:

- High quality silent EQ pick up produces nice and charming sound

- DIY your electric Violin through the electric Violin pickup outfit

- It is easy to DIY your Violin to Electric

- Powered by a 9V battery(not included)

- Comes with high quality headphone and plug hole output cable

Package Includes:

1 Piece Violin pickup

1 Piece Headphone

1 Piece Plug hole cable

Note:

Due to the difference between different monitors, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item

Due to manual measurement, there may be 1-2mm error in size

  • High quality silent EQ pick up produces nice and charming sound
  • DIY your electric Violin through the electric Violin pickup outfit
  • It is easy to DIY your Violin to Electric
  • Powered by a 9V battery(not included)
  • Comes with high quality headphone and plug hole output cable

Barcus Berry BAR-AET Vibrato-AE Series Acoustic-Electric Violin - Tuxedo

Barcus Berry

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Barcus Berry BAR AE model is hand-crafted in Romania, a place whose association with string instruments dates back many centuries. Fully-carved and graduated select seasoned Carpathian Maple and Spruce. Authentic Barcus-Berry electronics. Set-up to MENC standards. Includes Ebony fittings, Super Sensitive Red Label strings, four Witter tuners and a hand-rubbed lacquer finish. Complete outfit, including color-matching Glaser bow with horse hair, black Barcus-Berry embroidered soft-shape case with detachable shoulder strap, and full cake dark rosin. Available in a wide variety of finishes.

  • Superb acoustic performance as well as acoustic-electric capability
  • Built-in bridge piezo pickup produces excellent sound quality
  • Hand crafted with fully carved and graduated select woods; Romanian made
  • Includes case and bow
  • Color: Tuxedo

User questions & answers

Question: What size is the violin
Answer: Mine is 14 inches
Question: How well does this violin hold tuning
Answer: It drapes 14" from the top of the box spring to the floor (the colored fabric part). The white under fabric is a little too wide for my regular king size bed, had to do a little stitching in the middle under the mattress to make it fit correctly.
Question: do i have to pay extra tax for shipping this item into europe
Answer: Wood

MonkeyJack Durable Violin Silent EQ Preamp Pickup with Plug Hole Cable Screws Set 4/4 Violin Parts

MonkeyJack

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

- Brand new and high quality silent EQ pick up produces nice and charming sound

- DIY your electric violin through the electric Violin pickup outfit

- It is easy to DIY your violin to electric

- Powered by a 9V battery(not included)

- Comes with high quality plug hole output cable

Package Includes:

1 Piece Violin pickup(with screws)

1 Piece Plug hole cable

Note:

Due to the difference between different monitors, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item

Due to manual measurement, there may be 1-2mm error in size

  • Brand new and high quality silent EQ pick up produces nice and charming sound
  • DIY your electric violin through the electric Violin pickup outfit
  • It is easy to DIY your violin to electric
  • Powered by a 9V battery(not included)
  • Comes with high quality plug hole output cable

User questions & answers

Question: There is a red mark on one end of the piezo strip; does it matter which way it is oriented, i.e. to the treble or bass side
Answer: No. It is a nice set and all the pieces fit together well. It was purchased as a “Thank You” gift for our outgoing organization president to take with her when she travels for work, so we wanted something that traveled well. A “rattle” would have been unacceptable.

KNA VV-3 Detachable Passive Piezo Pickup for Violin and Viola

KNA Pickups

Based on 145 reviews Check latest price

Product description

VV-3 is a natural, detachable passive piezo pickup solution for violin and viola. Encased in lightweight tone wood, The VV-3 Sensor installs in the eye of the viol bridge with minimal modification. VV-3 features a solid ebony, cork-lined ¼” Carpenter jack with an adjustable barreled clamp, keeping it firmly in place during performances. VV-3 is handcrafted in Europe.

  • Lightweight, wood-encased sensor delivers the natural sound of your instrument
  • Solid ebony, cork-lined 1/4" Carpenter jack holds firmly to the instrument via an adjustable cork-lined clamp
  • Detachable, or may remain installed when not in use
  • Professional sound with slight to no modification of instrument during installation
  • Handcrafted in Europe

User questions & answers

Question: Incluye el envío a Mexico cp
Answer: En mi caso el envío costó casi 7 dólares, llegó sin ningún problema.
Question: Can it work with phantom power at all
Answer: This is a passive piezo pickup and neither requires nor suports phantom power, as it's not a balanced output. You COULD choose to pass it through a preamp which runs on your choice of an A/C adapter, or batteries, or phantom power.
Question: Can this be connected to a console
Answer: Hello, My name is Sean and I am a representative from KNA pickups. To answer your question, you can plug directly into a mixing board. Best, Sean H. Kremona North America
Question: What is the frequency range for this pickup? I am considering trying to adapt it for use on an autoharp
Answer: Hello, Thank you for the inquiry. To answer your question this pickup will amplify all audible frequencies. You might want to also look into our AP series pickups. Those might work a little better and you won't have to alter the pickup. Best, Kremona North America

Product features

Discrete

The VV-3 comes stock with a lightweight low-profile ebony jack housing ideal for the performing musician.

Protective

Clamp feet and the bottom of the pickup are lined with soft cork, ensuring that your instruments varnish is safe while the pickup is in place.

Easy Installation

Secure the body of the pickup to the lower bout of the instrument, slip the VV-3 sensor into the eye of the bridge and you’re ready for any live or studio performance.

Barcus Berry, 1-String Electric Violin (1320)

Barcus Berry

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Violin bridge with built-in piezo pickup. The piezo transducer is built right into the bridge, achieving wide band frequency response, perfectly balanced string sensitivity, feedback rejection and excellent signal isolation.

  • Includes 3100P 1/4-inch output jack. Provides superb acoustic performance together with unequaled acoustic-electric capability. Pickup transducer select quality unfitted replacement Bridge with has a factory installed piezo electric transducer
  • Output jack Bb model 3100P. 1/4-inch female Carpenter output jack with separate U-Shaped bottom bracket and 2 turn buckles. Adjustment key. Installation instructions. Preamp not included, Not required
  • Preferred by Pro violinists such as Dan Kelly (Alan Jackson), John jeansonne (racal flats), and brendon Anthony (the pat Green band)
  • Country of Origin: UNITED STATES

User questions & answers

Question: Is this instrument made in china ,because its not for me and they do not want it from china
Answer: Yes.
Question: Is the bridge wired directly into the 1/4" jack, or does it plug into it
Answer: Yes. It has lighten my face. I use well twice daily and avoid direct sunlight contact. This product is very good
Question: Is this 3100p or 3120p
Answer: No, it's only for gel nail polish

KNA VV-2 Violin/Viola pickup

Kremona

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

VV-2 is a natural, detachable passive piezo pickup solution for violin and viola with adjustable volume output control. Encased in lightweight tone wood, the VV-1 sensor installs in the eye of the viol bridge with minimal modification. Adjustable input jack housing clamps are lined with soft, protective cork. Accepts a 1/4" jack.

  • Delivers the natural sound of your violin or viola
  • Convenient volume output control knob featured on output jack housing
  • Wooden sensor casing is lightweight, unobtrusive and installs in the eye of the bridge with minimal modification
  • Detachable, or may remain installed when not in used
  • Accepts 1/4" cable jack

User questions & answers

Question: What is the difference between the vv1 and vv2 models
Answer: No, but you can buy them separately.

Product features

Easy Installation

A wood-encased piezo sensor installs safely and securely into the eye of the instrument bridge with minimal modification.

Adjustable

Clamp barrels are easily adjustable to precisely accommodate the nuanced build variances of both violins and violas.

Protective

A 1/4" jack socket safely mounts to the viol bout with a cork-lined clamp

ammoon Violin Bridge with Internally Mounted Piezo Pickup for 4/4 Full Size Electric Violin Parts Replacement

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications:

Suitable for: 4/4 Violin

Bridge Dimension: 5 * 4 * 0.5cm / 2 * 1.6 * 0.2in

Jack Plug: 2.5mm

Cable Length: Approx 20cm / 8in

Package Size: 7 * 6 * 1cm / 2.8 * 2.4 * 0.4in

Package Weight: 6g / 0.2oz



Package List:

1 * Pickup & Bridge Set



Note:

The violin is not included.

  • Compatible with 4/4 full size violin.
  • Highly sensitive piezo for great performance.
  • Bridge with embedded pickup design.
  • Natural wood bridge with exquisite workmanship.
  • 2.5mm diameter plug to link with preamp, EQ etc.

Shadow Electronics SH-945 Nanoflex Pickup with Preamp for Violin

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Violin is a trade mark instrument for the planet earth. Its beautiful design and incredible frequency response make this instrument to be loved and used in symphony, jazz and contemporary music. Shadow's Nanoflex technology makes no compromise in preserving these features. It is built to reproduce the instrument vibrations authentically with every move of the bow in all positions. No need of instrument modification was a must in developing this absolutely noise and hum free violin pickup system. Nanoflex pickups do not only take the vibrations of the strings like common under saddle pickups. Nanoflex senses the vibrations of the strings AND the body of the instrument simultaneously. No other pickup technology gives you this high level of sound reproduction. Due to active amplification directly at the pickup and 100% shielding of the entire system, no sound will be lost and no hum created. This is why the best violin players in the world are using the Shadow SH 945 NFX violin Nanoflex pickup system. The pickup mounts easily under the bridge and senses the vibrations of the bridge and the body. Control unit with volume and tone potentiometer mounts on violin side with chin rest type assembly. The control unit has input for pickup and standard 1/4-Inch jack output, 3V cell battery (2032). Mounts easily and provides 1 year lifetime.

  • Reproduces the instrument vibrations authentically
  • Easy installation without damaging the instrument
  • Super sensitive Nanoflex pickup
  • Volume and tone control
  • 1/4-Inch output socket

Fishman V-300 Concert Series Violin Pickup

Fishman

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Accurate reproduction of your instrument's unique acoustic sound Piezo-ceramic pickup skillfully crafted into a high-quality Despiau bridge Consistent sound for every performance Includes 1/4' Carpenter output jack An impedance matching preamp is recommended, but not required Professional installation required

  • Brand:FISHMAN
  • Fishman is dedicated to helping musicians achieve the truest sound possible whenever they plug in.
  • The V-300 Concert Series Violin pickup offers an extraordinary level of performance, tone quality and accuracy for violins.
  • Preinstalled in high quality Despiau bridges to provide the ultimate performance in terms of a precise and perfectly balanced tone from string to string.

User questions & answers

Question: Would you be able to get the same level of performance from this pickup on a left-hand violin
Answer: Yes, I believe the level of performance would be the same on a left-hand and on a right-hand violin. Nevertheless, it would be best for the pickup to be set by a professional luthier who would make some adjustments.

Product features

Fishman PRO-V30-0VI

The V-300 Concert Series Violin pickup offers an extraordinary level of performance, tone quality and accuracy for violins.

The piezo-ceramic Concert Series pickup for violin is preinstalled in high-quality Despiau bridges to provide the ultimate performance - a precise and perfectly balanced tone from string to string.

An exceptionally clear and natural tonal response reveals the true character of the instrument. These pickups sound remarkably consistent every time they are played.

Inspired

We love music, and we are continually inspired by musicians to create tools for them that in turn motivate us forward.

Performance

We are always striving to perform at our highest levels, delivering value and quality, and respecting our customers’ hard work and investment in our products.

Technology

Since the very beginning, Fishman has been about making intricate technologies workable for musicians. Harnessing them in ways that are functional, affordable, robust and repeatable.

A Letter from the President

Fishman is dedicated to helping musicians of all styles achieve the truest sound possible wherever and whenever they plug in. Our ongoing commitment to professional sound and quality has helped our company grow to become an industry leader in amplification, effects, and pickups for acoustic and electric instruments, MIDI control, and other product categories. The loyalty from our extended family of players, technicians, repair professionals, and instrument manufacturers, is really a result of our loyalty toward them. This bond goes beyond product alone, but also extends to our customer service, interaction and support.

After 35 years, you still have my promise that Fishman will always endeavor to be the best at what we do, but most importantly to make you sound your absolute best.

Thanks to all of you who have chosen Fishman. Have a great gig.

- Larry Fishman, President.

Yamaha SV-250 4 String Electric Violin

Yamaha

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A New Benchmark in Pro Performance

  • Solidbody Electric Silent Violin with Chambered Flamed Maple Body
  • Pickup Blend Control - Shaded Brown
  • Ebony Fingerboard
  • Bridge Pickup
  • Piezo Pickup

User questions & answers

Question: Are a bow and shoulder rest included in this product? Or only the violin itself included
Answer: Only the violin.
Question: What kind of amp would be good to use with the YSV-250 violin
Answer: I use a cube street amp from Roland. It works pretty well. The only thing is that you might have to turn the Gain setting up all the way on the amp itself (this amplifies the signal coming from the instrument). The pre-amp that comes with the 250 is actually kind of weak.
Question: Can both the headphone output and amp/pa output be used at the same time? such as sometimes on station i cannot hear myself clearly through feedback
Answer: Yes, the headphone jack on the SV-250's control box/preamp does not defeat the output to the amp or PA, so you can use the headphone jack as an in-ear monitor while performing.
Question: I see in the reviews below you need to plug the original amp in. Does this apply to headphones? Can you plug headphones in the violin
Answer: No, you need the amp module

Violin Pickup Carpenter Jack with Micro-Gooseneck by Myers Pickups

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

My promise to you: "Our company is built on integrity and quality. If you are not 100% satisfied with this pickup, I will gladly and happily refund your money back...no questions asked" Gregg Myers, President/Owner of Myers Pickups

  • Violin Pickup with flexible micro-gooseneck! Includes the new carpenter jack mount!!
  • The smallest (all-in-one) active/preamp pickup on the market today!
  • Instantly turn your instrument into an acoustic/electric instrument! Compatible with almost any musical instrument! Perfect for string instruments!
  • New flexible micro-gooseneck for even more adjustability!
  • (Instrument not included)

User questions & answers

Question: Is that a standard 1/4" jack
Answer: It is, yes.
Question: For a mandolin, is 'near the tailpiece' a suitable mount point? How long is the gooseneck? Where is recommended mount position and why
Answer: First, it must be mounted where your arms/hands won't touch it or accidentally brush against it. Ideally, before fixing it to the instrument, using headphones, listen to the sound while moving it around while strumming/bowing until you find that magic spot. There, is where you will attach it!
Question: Does this require a lithium battery
Answer: There is a lithium battery installed in the unit and a spare included in the packaging. It powers the mini pre amp. Be sure to unplug the 1/4 inch cable when not using it as that is how it switches it on and off.

Fishman V-100 Classic Series Violin/Viola Pickup

Fishman

Based on 79 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This piezo-ceramic pickup mounts in the wing slot of the violin bridge with Fishman's patented Floating Mount System. Lightweight to minimize muting, it includes a mini jack which mounts to the tailpiece. A 10' 1/8' to 1/4' cable is included. An impedance-matching preamp is recommended, but not required. Easy installation with no alteration!

  • Mounts in the wing slot of the violin bridge with Fishman’s patented Floating Mount system
  • Piezo-ceramic pickup
  • Lightweight to minimize muting
  • An impedance-matching preamp is recommended, but not required
  • Easy installation with no alteration

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a good pickup for my son
Answer: Hi,The features of the Fishman Classic Series V-100 Violin Pickup are as follows:Piezo-ceramic pickupLightweight to minimize mutingAn impedance matching preamp is recommended, but not requiredEasy installation with no alterationShould be a good one for your son.Thank youStores123.
Question: i have a gibson mastertone banjo--but it looks like it doesn't have an end jack on it---just bare wires--do i have to soder and end jack on it
Answer: It comes with a jack, but installation does require some soldering. I got mine professionally done so I wouldn't have to mess with the the installation, since I don't have a soldering iron.
Question: Does this come with the clips to mount the pickup elements to the bridge
Answer: Yes it does, they're super tight though. I had to widen them a touch because I couldn't get them on my bridge and it was making the pickups slide everywhere

Product features

Fishman V-100 Violin/Viola Pickup

This piezo-ceramic pickup mounts in the wing slot of the violin bridge with Fishman’s patented Floating Mount system.

Lightweight to minimize muting, the V-100 includes a mini jack which mounts to the tailpiece. A 10’, 1/8” to 1/4” cable is included. When paired with an impedance-matching preamp, such as our Platinum Stage, Platinum Pro EQ or Powerjack, the full potential of the V-100 can be realized.

Over 30 years ago Larry Fishman was looking for a performance solution for his own upright bass. His need for pure, quality sound eventually became the BP-100, our first product — still in production today. Finding those types of solutions and making them available to players around the world has been the backbone of Fishman ever since.

Inspired

We love music, and we are continually inspired by musicians to create tools for them that in turn motivate us forward.

Performance

We are always striving to perform at our highest levels, delivering value and quality, and respecting our customers’ hard work and investment in our products.

Technology

Since the very beginning, Fishman has been about making intricate technologies workable for musicians. Harnessing them in ways that are functional, affordable, robust and repeatable.

A Letter from the President

Fishman is dedicated to helping musicians of all styles achieve the truest sound possible wherever and whenever they plug in. Our ongoing commitment to professional sound and quality has helped our company grow to become an industry leader in amplification, effects, and pickups for acoustic and electric instruments, MIDI control, and other product categories.

The loyalty from our extended family of players, technicians, repair professionals, and instrument manufacturers, is really a result of our loyalty toward them. This bond goes beyond product alone, but also extends to our customer service, interaction and support.

After 35 years, you still have my promise that Fishman will always endeavor to be the best at what we do, but most importantly to make you sound your absolute best.

Thanks to all of you who have chosen Fishman. Have a great gig.

-Larry Fishman, President.

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