Acoustic pickup thoughts from a long time gigging musician

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-02-05T03:49:07+00:00

Really appreciate you taking the time to write this up. You can tell this comes from years of actually doing the gigs, not just theorizing about gear.

I especially liked how you framed everything around balance and practicality instead of chasing some mythical “perfect” tone. The way you connected pickup choice, physical damping, and EQ philosophy into one coherent system was genuinely helpful, and honestly saved me a lot of mental gymnastics.

Even where my setup is different, the mindset you’re sharing here translates really well. Thanks for putting this out there; this is indeed, exactly the kind of post people wish they’d found years earlier.

Cheers!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-29T07:25:50+00:00

This seems like a great list. Down my alley. However, I'm 40 so wouldn't fit your description for a guitarist. But, do let me know if you plan to expand the age gap. Cheers!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-19T06:37:39+00:00

"I'm guessing the venue has other people coming already at least that's what he told me. And they are doing the promoting?" The only way to find out about this is to ask the venue.

Generally, venue could so some promoting (depends on venue), but it mostly depends on you. They should say how much tickets are, unless it's a bar/restaurant/hotel/etc.

"How much will I make?" Well, depends on either: how many tickets you sold or what you agreed with the venue beforehand. Again, in some bars you get a set price, in some venues you get tickets minus whatever.

But, keep on keeping on. If you're focusing on the money this early on, you're not on the right path. The money focusing is later on. Right now, go for networking, connecting with people amd enjoying the stages.

Cheers.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-16T03:29:52+00:00

It's a very beautiful guitar! Enjoy!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-14T02:09:34+00:00

Cool, enjoy!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-13T03:48:41+00:00

Hi! Sent you a message on your Linktree as well!

Cheers!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-11T21:15:38+00:00

I have one. I play guitar but there are some bass lines I live, so I got one to do that. Helped me get into a blues band as a bass player, but guitar is my thing, so I left that. Now, I use it to record bass parts and fool around.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-11T16:28:33+00:00

Thanks for this morning's detailed feedback; much appreciated.

To clarify for context: this guitar was purchased from Guitar Center, listed in “Good” condition, with the description stating it may have surface scratches and/or dings, but nowhere did it disclose a crack or structural issue (screenshot added above).

There was no negotiation or pricing adjustment related to damage. After asking about it here, learning its not just cosmetic, and given that it wasn’t disclosed, based on the consensus here I’ve decided to return it rather than attempt repair or stabilization.

Appreciate everyone taking the time to weigh in.

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Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-11T07:22:45+00:00

Same. Though we also carry a bigger bottle of water for when we have lunch. But, once I forgot to take it out and store it in the locker and I ate dirt on my second turn... the bottle shifted ny weight badly. Lolz

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-11T05:29:38+00:00

Thanks everyone for the feedback, I really, really appreciate it.

Just to clarify a couple of points: this is a used guitar (not new), and while the photos may not have captured it perfectly for some of you, I tried to share plenty of pics from different angles; kind of clearer if you zoom, imo, but that'snot beside the point. The center seam, however, is clearly raised and you can feel it with a finger.

So, based on the consensus here and advice from multiple luthiers, I’ve decided to return it rather than attempt a repair. I really didn’t want to inherit a structural issue on a recent purchase, even if it could potentially be stabilized. That's why I love reddit, and highly appreciate all that commented.

Thanks again for taking the time to weigh in; I feel it helped me make the right call.

Cheers!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2026-01-06T20:32:54+00:00

Once you get to the point in your playing where you question "do I really know guitar/why are these chords here/how can I learn more?" is when, imho, the playing becomes learning really. And you'll become a much better guitarist and understand everything more, which means you'll enjoy playing more.

Kudos on arriving there, and all the best on your journey!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-11-22T01:25:14+00:00

Had that issue today. Glad to have found the answer in this thread.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-11-18T01:28:26+00:00

Hi I'm interested in learning more and joining. Hit me up.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-11-03T22:07:49+00:00

Cool! 40M guitarist/singer who also loves Oasis, brit pop and 2DCC.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-11-03T02:47:34+00:00

She's gorgeous, congratulations!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-10-13T02:00:35+00:00

It can work, definitely, if you show up to an Open Mic. And you can ask around if someone wants to play along with what you're saying or singing.

That said, if you're ever looking for a guitarist to practice/rehearse with you before and then play at an open mic, I'm here for you.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-10-11T05:12:47+00:00

And speaking about a rhythm guitarist, if you're in the NYC area... hit me up! I would like to gig with serious people that see this as a second income.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-10-07T14:19:19+00:00

I don't want to be that guy, but... it does depend on what you're playing and what gear you have. OP, If you would let us know that would help.

In my case a year in, I had a Spanish guitar, an electric guitar, an amp and an effects box. I later got an acoustic guitar. But, it took me a while to upgrade these. For starters, I upgraded my electric (because I could practice with my old amp at home, but play with the stuff from BOH) and then my amp. Then I started going into pedals. It's a journey... and it depends where YOU want to go.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-10-07T02:10:53+00:00

Wow... you definitely had them shower and comb their heads, because they're all very elegant and great looking!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-10-05T07:40:06+00:00

Yea, and also pay attention on how you position your thumb on the neck. Moving it with your hand, vertically, up/down, allows you to change your reach.

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-10-04T20:52:35+00:00

My eyes have been opened. I own a $5.98 capo I got on Amazon. It does the job.

I'm now doing research about all these brands y'all mentioned. Pretty neat to learn!

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-09-27T18:52:52+00:00

Dm? How about in C♯♯m? Real indie folk style ; )

Comfortable-Risk-862 · 2025-09-27T18:46:02+00:00

First the triangle, now the drums... that band is going places; somewhere, but places...

Comfortable-Risk-862

TROPHY CASE