Acoustic to electro acoustic

[converse_uprise]

So, my girlfriend has just bought me an old american acoustic guitar of ebay. When it arrives its going to get set up, to make it all nice and perfect.. then i'm considering turning it into an electro acoustic.

Has anyone done this before? What are the best kits to get to do it? I'm not sure i want the pickup type that sits just under the strings. I want a proper kit that goes inside the guitar with batteries and stuff.

Any help?

 

[eekfek]

there are a few different ways to install pickups on an acoustic, my preference would be to use an external system which doesnt alter the guitar thus not affecting its sound.

http://www.guitarampkeyboard.com/en/d-8/10409

JHS ACOUSTIC SOUNDHOLE PICKUP
One of the quickest and easiest ways to install a pickup into your acoustic guitar. A three-point centre soundhole mounting means attachment is straightforward, with no risk of damage to the guitar. Tone and volume controls allow you to tailor the sound to your personal requirements.

i havent used the above but for its price and ease of use it could be a starting point for you.

 

[MidnightLamp]

the best pickup ive yet to try for me has been a K&K pure mini.

http://www.kksound.com/puremini.html

they're truly brilliant, £100 on ebay
i used to gig with a mic, thinking id never get a good sound with pickup but overall the sound is better with this pickup when you factor in feedback problems/mic placement.

they sit beneath the bridge, and then can come out of the rear strap pin. they're passive, so no battery, and I gig professionaly without needing a preamp, they can go straight into a DI to mixing desk and sound great.
you'd do best getting it installed by a good guitar tech unless you're nifty at guitar DIY.

ive tried fishmans and headway, two of the popular makes and this K&K beats them to my ear. much more natural and less electricy/high endy tacky.