Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$169.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (4)
$169.00
Amazon
4.4 (107)
$169.00
Amazon Prime
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$131.36 New
$85.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$169.00
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$179.00

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup: Amplifying Authenticity

Amplify the authenticity of your acoustic guitar with the EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup. This revolutionary pickup is the perfect solution for musicians seeking a dynamic amplified sound that stays true to the natural acoustic tone. Engineered with a unique internal preamp, specifically tailored for an acoustic guitar's phase and frequency response, the ACS Pickup provides an authentic sound experience.

The broad frequency range of the ACS Pickup enhances both the bright top-end and full low-end of your acoustic guitar. This creates a natural tone that sounds like it's coming straight from the soundhole, rather than an electronic pickup.

Need power and volume to keep up with a full band? The ACS Pickup has got you covered. And you don't have to worry about unwanted feedback. The pickup's unique design and placement within the soundhole effectively counter the phase issues that can lead to squealing or humming.

The ACS Pickup also features an integrated volume control for quick and easy adjustments. For advanced tone shaping, the volume potentiometer can be replaced with EMG's optional active tone control, providing bass, middle and treble controls for precise tailoring of your amplified acoustic tone.

Key Features:

  • Designed for enhancing the natural acoustic tone
  • Broad frequency range for an authentic sound experience
  • Powerful enough to keep up with a full band
  • Feedback-resistant design to avoid unwanted noise
  • Integrated volume control for easy adjustments
  • Option to replace volume potentiometer with active tone control for advanced tone shaping
  • Durable construction, built to withstand the rigors of the road
  • Comes complete with all necessary installation components
  • EMG's exclusive quick-connect output jack for easy installation

Product specs

Instrument Acoustic Guitar
Type Humbucker
Position Soundhole
Active/Passive Active
Built-in Preamp Yes
Controls Volume
Features Feedback Resistant
Power Source 2 x CR2032

FAQs

Is the EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup suitable for all acoustic guitars?

The EMG ACS is designed to fit most standard acoustic guitar soundholes. However, it is always best to measure your guitar's soundhole to ensure compatibility, as some non-standard sizes may not accommodate the pickup.

How does the EMG ACS pickup handle feedback during live performances?

The EMG ACS is feedback resistant, making it a reliable choice for live performances. Its active design and built-in preamp help minimize unwanted noise, providing clear and consistent sound output.

What is the power source for the EMG ACS pickup, and how long does it last?

The EMG ACS pickup is powered by two CR2032 batteries. These batteries typically provide long-lasting power, ensuring the pickup remains active for extended periods without frequent replacements.

Does the EMG ACS pickup come with volume control?

Yes, the EMG ACS features an onboard volume control, allowing you to easily adjust the output level directly on your guitar for optimal sound balance.

Can the EMG ACS pickup be used with effects pedals?

The EMG ACS is an active pickup with a built-in preamp, making it compatible with a wide range of effects pedals. This allows you to expand your tonal possibilities and integrate the pickup into your existing pedal setup.

Reverb

Reverb

Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar Pickup: Soundhole vs Transducer vs Mic vs Piezo | Reverb Demo

Video thumbnail for Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar Pickup: Soundhole vs Transducer vs Mic vs Piezo | Reverb Demo by Reverb

Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar Pickup: Soundhole vs Transducer vs Mic vs Piezo | Reverb Demo

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for How to Install a Sound Hole Pickup In Your Acoustic Guitar by Tony Polecastro

How to Install a Sound Hole Pickup In Your Acoustic Guitar

Tony Polecastro

Tony Polecastro

Video thumbnail for Acoustic Guitar Pickup Buyer's Guide by Tony Polecastro

Acoustic Guitar Pickup Buyer's Guide

Tony Polecastro

Tony Polecastro

Video thumbnail for The BEST Fishman Acoustic Guitar Pickup (AT92) by Tony Polecastro

The BEST Fishman Acoustic Guitar Pickup (AT92)

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Tony Polecastro

Reviews

PROS

  • Easy to install with the right tools

  • Produces a warm, rich, and balanced sound

  • No hum or feedback issues

  • Volume knob is conveniently located for easy access

  • True to the guitar’s acoustic voice, even in high-end instruments

  • Cheaper than LR Baggs M1A but sounds better

  • Great for live performances with minimal noise interference

  • Adjustable pole pieces for better string balance

  • Compact design using flat batteries instead of bulky 9 volts

  • Preamp section offers plenty of gain

CONS

  • Requires a small Allen wrench for installation and removal

  • Batteries last only about 12 hours, needing frequent replacements

  • Some units may arrive defective, requiring a refund or replacement

Critic Reviews

Top Soundhole Pickups: Shadow, EMG, Seymour & More - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup is a lightweight addition to your acoustic setup with minimal soundboard muting. It boasts a balanced sound, though the difference in tone between wound and unwound strings is noticeable, which EMG suggests can be adjusted. While the pickup is powerful and quiet, the lack of included battery life information and the need for pole piece adjustments might deter some. Overall, the EMG ACS delivers a good sound quality, especially for those willing to tweak settings for optimal performance.

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Zakk Wylde uses EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

Zakk Wylde

Guitarist, Singer

Pantera

...
Verified via YouTube

As can be seen in the video, Zakk had an EMG ACS installed in the Epiphone acoustic which he used for his EMG TV performances.

See how Devin Townsend uses EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

Devin Townsend

Singer, Guitarist

The Wildhearts

...
Verified via YouTube

Devin discusses having an ACS installed in this particular guitar that he used in this EMG TV performance.

See how Maddie Rice uses EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

Maddie Rice

Guitarist

The Late Show Band

...
Verified via Maddie Rice

On her website Maddie states that she uses an EMG ACS pickup: "I’ve got my acoustic set up with an ACS."

See how Maarten Devoldere uses EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup

Maarten Devoldere

Composer

Balthazar

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo from Pancakesandwhiskey, Maarten Devoldere is seen using the EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use EMG ACS Active Magnetic Soundhole Pickup, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

EMG 57 Humbucker Pickup
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1

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