EMG4658 vs EMG4659 — Compare
EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 57 offers balanced, articulate warmth suited for rock and studio work where clarity matters as much as punch, while the EMG 66 is a hotter, tighter pickup built specifically for metal and high-gain applications where cutting through dense mixes is critical. Choose the 57 for versatile articulation across multiple genres; choose the 66 if metal and hard rock with maximum output and low-end control are your primary focus.
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EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Balanced output with warm yet clear tone works across rock, alternative, and studio sessions
- ✓ More versatile midrange character captures pick dynamics without excessive compression
- ✓ Articulate highs and full lows without being genre-limited to high-gain styles
Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Higher output designed specifically for metal, hard rock, and high-gain amp settings
- ✓ Tight, controlled low end cuts through dense mixes and thick distortion
- ✓ Solderless installation makes swapping faster and easier than traditional wiring
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between the 57 and 66?
The 57 emphasizes balanced midrange warmth and articulation suitable for multiple genres, while the 66 prioritizes higher output and tight lows specifically designed for metal and high-gain applications. The 66 cuts through denser mixes; the 57 maintains more traditional humbucker character.
Which is easier to install?
The EMG 66 features solderless installation, eliminating traditional wiring hassles. The EMG 57 requires standard active pickup wiring and routing for the onboard preamp, making it a more involved permanent modification.
Can I use either pickup for jazz or blues?
Neither pickup is ideal for jazz or blues. Both are optimized for rock and metal genres. The 57 is somewhat more versatile, but both active designs and their output characteristics favor modern high-gain playing styles over traditional jazz or blues warmth.
Do both pickups require a battery?
Yes, both the EMG 57 and 66 are active pickups powered by a single 9V battery, typically housed in a rear cavity. Active circuitry ensures consistent output and minimal noise across the frequency spectrum.