Of course, the following list is by far not complete but describes only the models I personally use most frequently.
All statements regarding sound and suitability represent only my personal opinion and don’t claim to be generally valid!
Pickup: | Description: | Controls: | type: | price: |
Artec | Very economic Korean pickups with a larger variety of different preamps. Cannot quite reach the sound quality of the more expensive brands but is a very good value for the money. | depends on preamp | undersaddle | between 50,- and 200,-EUR |
Fishman Natural / Matrix | The Fishman-Natural “family” is one of my favorites for steel-string guitars for a long time already. Very clear and transparent sound with just the nessecary bit of warmth. Available with a variety of different preamps, which influences the price largely. | none to all you need depending on preamp. | undersaddle | between 200,- und 400,-EUR |
Headway | Very mellow sound characteristic, which suits especially classical guitars. Little bit low output. | none or Volume-control | undersaddle, coaxial | approx.250,-EUR |
Mc Loud | Very similar to Headway, in sound as in construction. | none or Volume-control. | undersaddle, coaxial | approx.230,-EUR |
Schertler Bluestick | A comparable new system from Switzerland based on a micro Condenser-mic fastened to a plate under the saddle. Due to ist warm sound very suitable for classical guitars. | Volume control at the edge of soundhole | Undersaddle, Mic-based | approx.250,-EUR |
Shadow | Well, I guess there are better things on this planet… |