LR Baggs M1 Soundhole Pickup

Great sound from this passive pickup, but using it with my Boss AC33 acoustic amp the volume was very low and I had to put it through a pre-amp (Boss VE8). The sound varies enormously depending on positioning of the pickup. One of the things the user documentation does not make clear is that actual body of the pickup should not be in contact with the edges of the soundhole (only the brackets should be in contact) so move the pickup about 1/8" toward the bridge to avoid too much treble. Contrary to most of the advice on the internet and LR Baggs forums, I did not really find that adjusting the pole pieces close to the strings had a major effect on either the volume or tone, but this may just be a case of playing in one setting for a few days and then making a change so your ears get a chance to get used to the sound. I use headphones when making adjustments so that the sound I am getting via the pickup through the amp is not confused with the sound from the guitar body itself. I got my local guitar shop to hardwire the pickup into my Yamaha FG-441 S for £35. All in all I am very happy with the pickup, but if you don't have a pre-amp It might be a good idea to check it out (temporary install) with your amp to make sure that you get the volume before you buy (or get the active version).