Microphone or Pickup?
 

When recording an acoustic guitar, is it better to use a microphone or pickup? I've been told a microphone is better since it will record the percussive clicking of your pick.

2 mics is best. One pointed at the sound hole and one pointed at the neck. Pickups are best for convenience or very active performances.

Thanks. Why the neck?

It's because it gives you a more natural sound. While the sound hole is used for projecting the guitar body's tone, a lot of the guitar's timbre comes from the way that the whole instrument vibrates. The second mic also picks up inflections such as string scrapes and tapping better than pointing it at the sound hole. If you're the kind of person who likes to play the headstrings, then it will pick that up better too. You can also isolate the different sounds of the guitar later on in mixing. There are many factors though, what is your recording space like?

If you're into it and want to create a great record, just pick up a mic and use that. If you have a smart phone you can get a free app and a $10 aux mic. Be creative.

We'll be in a small room, two of us, playing acoustic guitars, and then coming back afterwards with the vocals. Thanks.

I say MIKES are better... MUCH better :)

Thanks.

Your welcome my friend :)