Realist Copperhead Pickup for Cello

Natural Cello Amplification for Bowed and Pizzicato Playing

The Realist Copperhead Pickup for Cello delivers rich, natural amplification while preserving the tonal character and dynamic response of an acoustic cello. Developed by Ned Steinberger in collaboration with David Gage, this passive acoustic transducer is designed to reproduce the instrument's sound accurately during both bowed (arco) and plucked (pizzicato) playing. Its responsive design makes it particularly useful for cellists who alternate between playing techniques and need consistent amplified sound without frequent adjustments to their equipment.

The Copperhead features a thin, flexible copper-encased piezoelectric element that fits beneath a bridge foot, making contact with the cello's top plate. This placement allows the pickup to sense vibrations from both the bridge and the resonating body, capturing the warmth, articulation, and natural texture of the instrument. Its high-output passive design connects directly to compatible amplifiers and sound systems without requiring batteries or an external preamplifier. A standard 1/4" output jack provides a convenient connection for live performance and recording. With straightforward installation that requires no permanent modification to the cello, the Realist Copperhead offers a practical amplification solution that maintains the instrument's distinctive acoustic voice.

Features & Specifications

• Product: Realist Copperhead Pickup for Cello
• Instrument Compatibility: Acoustic cello
• Pickup Type: Passive piezoelectric acoustic transducer
• Transducer Construction: Thin copper-encased piezoelectric element designed to sense instrument vibrations
• Mounting Position: Fits between a bridge foot and the cello's top plate
• Acoustic Response: Captures vibrations from both the bridge and soundboard for natural tonal reproduction
• Playing Techniques: Responsive to both arco and pizzicato playing without requiring separate amplifier adjustments
• Output Connection: Standard 1/4" jack with strap-on mounting
• Passive Electronics: High-output design operates without batteries or an external preamplifier
• Noise Reduction: Shielded copper construction helps minimize electrical interference and unwanted hum
• Installation: Fits beneath the bridge foot without permanent modification to the instrument
• Designers: Developed by Ned Steinberger and David Gage
• Listed Weight: 0.4 lbs.
• Recommended Uses: Amplified cello performance, studio recording, live sound reinforcement, and playing that combines bowed and pizzicato techniques