Piezo materials -- piezo cable under saddle pickup for accoustic guitars

In summary, the piezo cable under saddle pickup for acoustic guitars works by converting the guitar's sound into electrical energy, similar to a microphone. These cables are bendable, but the piezo element is compressed under the saddle and does not bend much. However, the piezo element does pick up physical motion from the sound board and saddle, including string vibrations and even impacts from objects like beer bottles. This can affect the clarity of the sound heard from the loudspeaker.
  • #1
ryanuser
74
0
Hey

My question relates to piezo cable under saddle pickup for accoustic guitars. They change the guitar's sound into electrical energy. They work almost like a microphone.
But these cables are bendable, would that mean bending them can cause an electrical impulse along Becasue they are up of piezo electric materials?

But if this is true, when a guitar player is playing, they hit the guitar, so the cable vibrates too; so wouldn't the impulses from sound and the vibration be picked up by the piezo cable, so the sound heard from the loud speaker is no longer clear?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The cable is just regular wire (coaxial, at a guess).
The piezo element is sandwiched under the saddle and compressed by string tension so is not able to bend much at all.
fantawestern-2.jpg


But yes, the piezo element picks up physical motion of the sound board & saddle, whether it is from the strings vibration or from a direct beer bottle impact from a disgruntled spectator.
 
  • #3
Best answer I ever received on PF. Short and clear.

Thanks
 

1. What is a piezo material?

A piezo material is a material that has the ability to generate an electric charge when mechanical stress or pressure is applied to it. This phenomenon is known as the piezoelectric effect.

2. How does a piezo cable under saddle pickup work?

A piezo cable under saddle pickup works by converting the vibrations of the guitar strings into an electrical signal. The piezo material is placed under the saddle of the guitar, and when the strings vibrate, the pressure on the saddle causes the piezo material to generate an electrical signal which is then amplified and heard as sound.

3. Why are piezo materials used in guitar pickups?

Piezo materials are used in guitar pickups because they have a high sensitivity to vibrations, allowing for a more accurate representation of the sound of the guitar. They also have a wider frequency response compared to other types of pickups, resulting in a more natural and balanced sound.

4. Are there any disadvantages to using a piezo cable under saddle pickup?

One potential disadvantage of using a piezo cable under saddle pickup is that it can produce a harsher and more metallic sound compared to other types of pickups. Additionally, it may require a preamp to boost the signal, which can add to the cost and complexity of the setup.

5. Can piezo materials be used in other types of musical instruments?

Yes, piezo materials can be used in a variety of other musical instruments, such as violins, cellos, and pianos. They are also commonly used in other non-musical applications, such as sensors, actuators, and medical devices.

Similar threads

  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
25
Views
3K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
2
Replies
37
Views
15K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
5K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
33
Views
14K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
8
Views
10K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top