EMG3427 vs EMG3428 — Compare
EMG LJCSX Active Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG SJCSX Active Bass Pickup in Black
The LJCSX is a high-output bridge pickup built for aggressive modern styles like metal and funk with extended thump and articulate punch, while the SJCSX is a neck pickup designed for jazz and studio work with a more organic, passive-like feel and lower noise. Choose the LJCSX for drive and clarity in heavy genres; choose the SJCSX for nuanced, dynamic playing in jazz and precision settings.
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Specs side by side
| EMG LJCSX Active Bass Pickup in Black | EMG SJCSX Active Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.00 | $109.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG LJCSX Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ High thump output (8.50 V) delivers commanding low-end weight for modern styles
- ✓ Aggressive, articulate tone with extended dynamic range cuts through dense mixes
- ✓ Active VLPF tone control lets you shape highs on the fly
- ✓ Exceptional 3000-hour battery life on single 9 V cell
Why choose EMG SJCSX Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ X Series preamp reduces compressed hi-fi character, restoring natural playing dynamics
- ✓ Low noise floor ideal for studio sessions and precision work
- ✓ Solderless installation simplifies wiring and pickup swaps
- ✓ Organic responsiveness closer to passive feel while retaining active advantages
Frequently asked questions
Why are these two different positions (bridge vs. neck)?
The LJCSX is engineered as a bridge pickup to deliver the aggressive thump and presence needed in heavy genres. The SJCSX is a neck pickup designed to capture the responsive, nuanced dynamics essential to jazz bass work.
Which pickup has lower noise?
The SJCSX is specifically marketed for its low noise floor and quiet operation, while the LJCSX prioritizes output and punch at –101 dB noise floor, which is still clean but secondary to its aggressive character.
Can I use both pickups together in the same bass?
Technically yes, but they're designed for different applications. The LJCSX is a bridge-position aggressive pickup for modern styles, while the SJCSX is a neck pickup for jazz and precision playing. Combining them would require careful impedance matching and mixing active electronics.
How do the output voltages compare?
The LJCSX delivers 2.00 V string output and 8.50 V thump output, designed for high-gain applications. The SJCSX's specs emphasize dynamic range and noise reduction rather than raw output voltage, making it better for subtle tonal work and studio clarity.