-
I guess I’m late to the party @bmmcdonald , but I see there are somethings that I would have said that haven’t been said, so… I’ll say them.
First, the direct answer to your direct question: NO, you DO NOT need electronics in your guitar to play in an open mic. Simple answer.
Ok, so open mics, you didn’t say wherther you are talking about a “real” open mic or a Virtual Open Mic. We would love to have you join us on the Virtual Open Mics. Let us know and we can provide you with links to join.
Now, @Carol-3M-Stillhand already gave you some info on this, but I will add to it. Usually, the “real” open mics have a cable lead to plug into your guitar. I don’t know if all Open Mics have an instrument pickup as they are local affairs run by a local person and there is no uniform code that they have to adhere to regarding equipment or technical expertise. Some are better equipped than others. There is a good chance the open mic in your area could handle acoustic guitars, but you’ll have to find out.
If you do indeed want to play at a real open mic and the one in your area doesn’t have an instrument mic for acoustic guitars, then you would need some kind of pickup. That information has been covered very well, so I’ll leave it there.
On the Virtual Open Mics, Carol mentioned that a laptop would work for you. That is correct, assuming you have a laptop. A smart phone also works, technically, but they are even more limited than a laptop. If you have a desktop, that’s the best, but then you need some equipment.
I will leave it there for now since I don’t know what you have or what you want. If you want to be a part of the VOMs (Virtual Open Mic) and you also have a desktop and you are willing to invest some money, then let us know and we can give you further information.
I hope this helps.
MG 😀