Placement changes everything. A contact mic on an acoustic guitar can sound warm and woody near the bridge, or bright and percussive closer to the soundhole.

Start with the bridge area

Most players begin behind or beside the bridge on the soundboard. This region balances fundamental pitch and harmonic detail. With the Cortado Xe, try the included putty first, then experiment with a magnet on the ferrous steel housing for quick repositioning.

Avoid excessive pressure

Piezo sensors respond to how firmly they couple to the surface. Too much pressure can dull the response; too little can add rattle. Aim for firm, even contact without flexing the top.

MkIII vs Xe on guitar

Xe: lowest profile, easiest magnet repositioning, ideal for gigging guitarists
MkIII: separate sensor for players who also use the mic on non-instrument sources and need pad/bass boost controls at the chassis

Compare specs on the Compare Models page.