How to Make an Acoustic Guitar Louder

Unlike electric guitars that use amplifiers in order to generate more noise, acoustic guitars rely on the sound waves that resonate within the guitar through the sound hole.

This makes acoustic guitars a lot less efficient when it comes to generating volume. So, if you are asking yourself how to make an acoustic guitar louder, here are some of the best tips you can use to achieve the desired results!

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Tip #1: Play the guitar harder

There’s no denying that applying more pressure on the strings will generate a louder noise. Pluck or strum the strings with more vigour if you are looking to get a louder sound.

Tip #2: Play with Audience in front of you

If you are looking for more volume for live gigs, make sure you play with the audience in front of you as much as possible. The playing position can also affect the experience so do what you can to stay in front and close to your audience to get the best outcome.

Tip #3: Play closer to the bridge

This is actually a very useful advice because while you play the strings as close as you can to the bridge, you will be able to simulate the sound created by electric guitars. It might not be the most efficient way to increase the overall loudness but you can do it for free and it does generate great results.

Tip #4: Get a clip-on microphone

If you don’t mind using tech in order to get the upper hand on this issue, then a very good idea is to purchase a clip-on microphone. You can get one for around $50, but the high end models can be priced at around $200-$300 so get one that suits your demands and budget.

The idea is that you get one and then place it at the outer region of the sound hole so that the sound can be amplified. If you can, get a wireless model as it’s a lot easier to use especially if you want to move often during the process.

These usually come in the form of a piezo microphone or clip on pickup.

Tip #5: Get a guitar that has a pickup and volume control

This is a great idea if you want to change your current guitar. This particular type of guitar is semi-electric, that’s true, but it does provide the value you are looking for and you can plug it in to an amp in order to get that extra volume.

Tip #6: Choose to play in a small room

Acoustic guitars are perfect for small rooms, so if you have the ability to choose where you want to play, then opt for a smaller room. This will give you the perfect sound and you won’t have to deal with any sound amplification techniques!

Regardless of what option you want to use, there’s no denying that all of these can help you obtain an amazing experience and great results all around.

These were the first things that popped into my head. Do have any other ideas for making your acoustic louder? If so, it’d be awesome to hear them. Just leave a comment below.

You might be interested in learning if acoustic guitars can be played with an electric amp.