EMG1996 vs EMG2494 — Compare
EMG 40TW 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG MMTW Active Music Man Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 40TW is a five-string soapbar pickup with higher output (up to 4.50V) and wider string accommodation (up to 76.2mm), while the MMTW is designed exclusively for Music Man bass bodies with a standard four-string footprint and more conservative output. Choose the 40TW if you play five-string or need a soapbar that fits standard spacing; choose the MMTW only if you own a Music Man bass.
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EMG 40TW 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
EMG MMTW Active Music Man Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 40TW 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black | EMG MMTW Active Music Man Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 40TW 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Designed for five-string basses with up to 76.2mm string width
- ✓ Higher output voltage (up to 4.50V) for more aggressive dynamics
- ✓ Soapbar format fits standard bass routing on most instruments
- ✓ Same dual-mode coil switching for tonal versatility
Why choose EMG MMTW Active Music Man Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Perfectly engineered for Music Man bass bodies with standard routing
- ✓ Excellent battery life (3290 hours, roughly 137 days continuous)
- ✓ More compact footprint (88.9mm width) matches Music Man specifications
- ✓ Clean, efficient circuit with only 152 microamps draw
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the MMTW on a five-string bass?
No. The MMTW is engineered exclusively for Music Man bass bodies and only accommodates string widths up to 63.5mm (2.5 inches), making it unsuitable for five-string spacing.
Which pickup has higher output?
The EMG 40TW reaches 4.50V in full humbucker mode, while the MMTW's output voltage is not specified in the available data. The 40TW is clearly designed for higher-output applications.
Do both pickups require soldering?
Both feature solderless connections. The 40TW includes quick connectors, and the MMTW is described as having solderless connections, making installation straightforward for either choice.
Which is better for funk and progressive music?
Both are explicitly listed as suitable for funk and progressive. The 40TW offers more output headroom for aggressive playing, while the MMTW provides articulate single-coil snap; your choice depends on whether your bass is five-string or a Music Man model.