Muting acoustic/classical

[rmgjsps]

Is there such a thing as a mute for acoustic and classical guitars? Strictly unplugged instruments. If there are, who makes them?

[YamahaGuy]

There are soundhole plugs which are usually used to fight feedback, but may act as a mute as well. Several manufacturers make them including Planet Waves. My Yamaha a/e guitars came with one. Some makers have very artsy ones that are partially open.

[TBman]

I've read of people (classical players) that stuff a sock(s) under the strings by the bridge so that they could practice at night and not disturb their family.

[jpbat]

Don't know about ready made classical/acoustic mute.

I use pieces of foam under the strings. Cut to dimensions.
Different densities give different results.

(I experiment a lot with muting on strings instruments, I love the sound possibilities)

On a guitar, it's not possible to use the concept of adding mass to the bridge, which is used on violin or banjo, hence the foam, but not the same sonic results.

Covering the sound hole limits the projection, so less sound, too.

[rmgjsps]

Originally Posted by TBman

I've read of people (classical players) that stuff a sock(s) under the strings by the bridge so that they could practice at night and not disturb their family.

TBman, I was hoping for a slightly more elegant solution, though I do have some old cashmere socks that might add a little class. Think I'll look for one of the commercial plugs or the foam under the strings trick mentioned above.

[vindibona1]

What is the intended result?

Years ago I owned a Gretsch Country Gentleman (a '66) that had soft rubber, sponge-like mutes that were engaged the strings with levers from below. I would imagine if that's the type of sound you're looking for I suppose it wouldn't be too hard to make one out of some sponge or rubber material.