EMG1521 vs EMG7241 — Compare

EMG ACS Black Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup vs EMG F-57TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome

The ACS is an acoustic guitar sound hole pickup designed specifically for amplifying unplugged instruments with natural tone, while the F-57TW is an active humbucker for electric guitars suited to rock and metal. Choose the ACS if you own an acoustic guitar; choose the F-57TW if you play electric guitar.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG ACS Black Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup

$179.00
View EMG ACS Black Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup

EMG F-57TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome

$169.00
View EMG F-57TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome

Specs side by side

EMG ACS Black Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole PickupEMG F-57TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Price$179.00$169.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG ACS Black Acoustic Guitar Sound Hole Pickup

  • ✓ Purpose-built for acoustic guitar amplification with tailored frequency response
  • ✓ Quiet performance ideal for fingerstyle and studio recording
  • ✓ Internal preamp optimized for acoustic tone preservation
  • ✓ Works across all skill levels from beginner to professional

Why choose EMG F-57TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome

  • ✓ Dual-mode flexibility: single-coil brightness or woody dual-coil character
  • ✓ Exceptional battery life (1500 hours on one 9V battery)
  • ✓ Articulate midrange and controlled output that sits naturally in dense mixes
  • ✓ Long shaft design accommodates deeper pot installations on electric guitars
Bottom line: Buy the ACS if you need to amplify an acoustic guitar for fingerstyle, folk, or studio work. Buy the F-57TW if you play electric guitar and want modern active humbucker tone for rock, metal, or progressive music.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use either pickup on both acoustic and electric guitars?

No. The ACS is specifically designed as a sound hole pickup for acoustic guitars only. The F-57TW is an electric guitar humbucker and will not fit or function in an acoustic guitar.

What is the key difference in how these pickups are powered?

The ACS uses an internal preamp and does not specify external power requirements in the provided description. The F-57TW is actively powered by a single 9-volt battery with an impressive 1500-hour lifespan.

Which pickup is better for recording in a studio?

Both are described as suitable for studio sessions but serve different instruments. The ACS is optimized for quiet acoustic recording; the F-57TW excels in studio rock and metal contexts where the ability to sit naturally in a dense mix matters.

Do these pickups work for beginners?

The ACS is rated for beginners through professionals. The F-57TW is rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional players, making the ACS more accessible to those just starting out with amplified guitar.

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