EMG3251 vs EMG42 — Compare
EMG 3 Pickup Conversion Wiring Kit Solderless vs EMG EXG Guitar Expander Active Tone Control
The EMG 3 Pickup Conversion Wiring Kit is a complete solderless installation package for building or upgrading a 3-pickup active guitar from scratch, while the EMG EXG is a standalone active tone control pedal that shapes frequency response on any guitar with active or passive pickups. Choose the wiring kit if you're installing pickups; choose the EXG if you want flexible tone shaping for an already-built guitar.
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EMG 3 Pickup Conversion Wiring Kit Solderless
Specs side by side
| EMG 3 Pickup Conversion Wiring Kit Solderless | EMG EXG Guitar Expander Active Tone Control | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.00 | $79.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 3 Pickup Conversion Wiring Kit Solderless
- ✓ Complete solderless package eliminates need for soldering skills
- ✓ Purpose-built for 3-pickup active installations with all required components
- ✓ Budget-friendly entry point for DIY pickup upgrades and home recording
Why choose EMG EXG Guitar Expander Active Tone Control
- ✓ Works with any guitar—active or passive pickups
- ✓ Boosts lows and highs while scooping midrange for clarity and presence
- ✓ Suited for live performance, gigging, and studio use with professional flexibility
Frequently asked questions
What does each product actually do?
The 3 Pickup Conversion Kit provides all solderless wiring components (pots, switch, jacks, cables) needed to wire a 3-pickup active guitar from the ground up. The EXG is a standalone tone control unit that equalizes your signal by boosting lows and highs while dipping mids, and plugs into any existing guitar.
Do I need soldering skills for either product?
No soldering required for the 3 Pickup Kit—all connections are solderless, making it beginner-friendly. The EXG requires no internal modification; you simply connect it between your guitar and amplifier.
Can I use the EXG with passive pickups?
Yes, the EXG works with both active and passive pickups, giving you tonal flexibility across any pickup type. The 3 Pickup Kit is designed specifically for active pickups only.
Which is better for live gigging?
The EXG is rated for live performance and gigging with its tone-shaping controls at your fingertips. The 3 Pickup Kit is internal wiring infrastructure, not a performance tool; it prepares a guitar for use but doesn't provide on-the-fly tone adjustment.