Adding a pickup to a pono post purchase

dirtiestkidever

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I am looking into picking up a Pono Pro Classic Tenor with a cedar top (not sure whether it will be a cutaway or not). It wont have a pickup but I would like to leave the option open to install one at a later time as there are instances when I wish I had one (jamming with acoustic guitars).

I have read a few posts and reviews indicating some possible issues. This review mentioned feedback issues (http://www.ianchadwick.com/ukuleles/pono.htm).

And this thread indicated that cutaways were a solution to feedback problems (http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?43272-Opinion-on-Cutaway-Ukuleles).

Are cutaways a better option if I am planning to install a pickup? Is this ukulele a bad choice if I am planning to install a pickup? Your input is greatly appreciated.
 
First you need to decide if you want an active or passive pickup. pros and cons to each. Then I would by your Pono from HMS http://www.theukulelesite.com and have them do the installation.

I had a K&K Aloha Twin installed on my Pono AC and really like it.

I don't think that a cutaway makes any difference for the pickup.
 
Thanks. That is helpful. Probably looking at a passive pickup. I would love to order from HMS but due to a limited budget I am looking at factory blems and other deals on ebay. I have been waiting for Deluxe and Pro Classic Blems to show up on HMS but its seems they normally only have the base models. Good to hear that the K&K is working well for you on the AC though. Thanks a ton.
 
Hear only good things about the k&k. The soundboard pickups do not produce as pronounced "thump" when you hit the strings as do undersaddles. I have a few ukes I want to put pickups on, and I will stick with the K&K type. I also plan on getting an external preamp/eq so I can have all the benefits of an "active" system without installing one in each of my ukes. When you use an amp without a preamp/eq, you will need it to get your ukes "dialed in."
 
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