The Myers Pickup and the Bassoon: A Technical Guide to Using Bassoon Pickups for Live and Studio Applications

The Myers Pickup and the Bassoon: A Technical Guide to Using Bassoon Pickups for Live and Studio Applications

When it comes to amplifying the bassoon—an instrument known for its complex harmonic structure and wide dynamic range—musicians face a unique challenge. Traditional microphones are often insufficient for capturing the full character of the bassoon in live or amplified settings. This is where bassoon pickups, particularly the Myers pickup, offer a transformative solution.

In this guide, we’ll explore how the Myers pickup functions as a bassoon pickup, its advantages over traditional miking techniques, technical placement tips, and why more and more bassoonists are turning to pickups for consistent, high-quality amplification.

Understanding the Need for Bassoon Pickups

Unlike brass or single-reed instruments, the bassoon has a long conical bore and multiple tone holes that project sound across the entire body of the instrument—not just from the bell. This makes it particularly difficult to amplify using a single point-source microphone. Standard large-diaphragm condensers may capture part of the sound, but often lose clarity or introduce unwanted coloration.

A bassoon pickup, by contrast, provides a more isolated and focused sound capture. By mounting directly on the instrument, a pickup reduces bleed from other instruments, feedback issues, and inconsistent tone due to poor mic placement. The result is a stronger, more reliable signal that retains the bassoon’s tonal integrity in any setting.

Why Choose the Myers Pickup as Your Bassoon Pickup?

The Myers pickup is a self-contained, mini condenser microphone system that clips directly onto acoustic instruments, including the bassoon. Unlike many clip-on microphones, the Myers is marketed and configured as a pickup—offering a battery-powered preamp, built-in gain control, and simple output routing for live sound systems or recording interfaces.

Here’s why the Myers pickup stands out as a professional-grade bassoon pickup:

1. Focused Tonal Capture

The Myers pickup allows you to position the microphone element close to the tone holes or bell of the bassoon. This proximity improves transient detail and frequency response, particularly in the low-mid range, which is crucial for the bassoon's characteristic sound.

2. High Portability and Quick Setup

Because the Myers is a self-contained bassoon pickup system, it eliminates the need for external power (phantom power) or bulky mic stands. Its small footprint makes it ideal for quick setups in rehearsal halls, concert venues, or remote recording locations.

3. Reduced Feedback Risk

Stage feedback is one of the most common issues for wind players using traditional microphones. The Myers pickupminimizes this risk by keeping the mic element close to the instrument and maintaining a tight pickup pattern.

4. Battery-Powered Preamp

The included preamp is discreetly built into the pickup system, allowing players to connect directly to mixers, DI boxes, or interfaces. This makes the Myers a truly plug-and-play bassoon pickup—ideal for players who need simplicity without sacrificing sound quality.

Technical Considerations When Using a Bassoon Pickup

Placement Matters

Correct placement of your bassoon pickup is critical to achieving optimal tone and minimizing unwanted mechanical noise. The Myers pickup uses a flexible gooseneck that can be adjusted to suit different playing styles and tonal preferences.

• Near the Low Joint or Bell: This location captures the instrument’s full harmonic spectrum and works well for solo work or featured passages.

• Mid-Body Placement: Ideal for blending into ensembles, this position provides a balanced sound without overly emphasizing low or high frequencies.

• Off-Axis Positioning: To reduce key noise and breath sounds, slightly angle the pickup off-axis from the bore or tone holes.

Signal Routing and EQ

Because the Myers pickup outputs a relatively hot signal from its internal preamp, it interfaces cleanly with most audio systems. Minimal EQ is needed to get a natural bassoon tone. However, slight midrange scooping (around 500–700 Hz) and low-end roll-off (below 60 Hz) can clean up the mix in full band settings.

Mounting Tips

The Myers bassoon pickup includes a secure, non-damaging mounting clip that attaches to the instrument body. For best results:

• Use a cloth or cork barrier if needed to protect finish or delicate wood.

• Make sure the clip is not in the path of hand motion or embouchure mechanics.

• Avoid placing the pickup where condensation may drip into the mic capsule.

Live Performance: Using the Myers Pickup On Stage

In a live sound environment, the Myers bassoon pickup performs reliably under pressure. Whether in a concert hall, pit orchestra, or outdoor stage, it ensures the bassoon can be clearly heard without overpowering or distortion.

Here are some stage-specific advantages:

• Consistent Tone: Unlike boom mics or overhead condensers, the pickup remains in the same position relative to the sound source, delivering a consistent tone regardless of player movement.

• Mobility: Players can move freely without worrying about stepping out of a mic’s pickup zone.

• Feedback Control: Tight directional pickup patterns and proximity make this system far more resistant to feedback than distant mics.

Studio Use: Bassoon Pickups for Recording

Although studio recordings often involve room microphones or multiple mic techniques, the Myers pickup is also an excellent studio tool. It captures a clean, dry signal that’s easy to mix, layer, and process. Many engineers now include a bassoon pickup feed alongside ambient room mics to offer more flexibility in the mixing process.

Benefits in the studio include:

• Isolated Signal: Ideal for overdubs or tight spaces where room bleed is an issue.

• Minimal Room Noise: Great for home studios or untreated rooms.

• Consistent Results: You get a repeatable mic setup every time—no guesswork or shifting mic stands.

Comparing the Myers Pickup to Other Bassoon Pickups

While several brands offer clip-on mics and pickups for woodwinds, the Myers pickup holds its own due to its combination of affordability, sound quality, and plug-and-play functionality.

| Feature | Myers Pickup | DPA 4099 | AMT P800 |

| Price | ✅ Affordable | ❌ Expensive | ❌ Expensive |

| Power | ✅ Battery-powered | ❌ Requires phantom | ✅ External preamp |

| Sound | ✅ Full, rich tone | ✅ High-end clarity | ✅ Detailed but bright |

| Mounting | ✅ Compact clip | ✅ Custom clamp | ❌ Bulky gooseneck |

| Use Case | ✅ Live + Studio | ✅ Studio ideal | ✅ Live preferred |

If you’re looking for a well-rounded bassoon pickup that delivers excellent performance without a steep learning curve or price tag, the Myers pickup is a top contender.

Conclusion: Why Every Bassoonist Should Consider a Pickup

As modern performance demands more flexibility from woodwind players, having a reliable, portable bassoon pickuphas become essential. Whether you’re playing in amplified ensembles, recording at home, or streaming a virtual concert, the Myers bassoon pickup provides the tone fidelity and practicality that serious musicians need.

With its compact design, high sound quality, and user-friendly operation, the Myers pickup is more than just a microphone—it’s a professional-grade bassoon pickup solution built for today’s performance environment.

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