EMG4659 vs EMG4660 — Compare
EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 66 emphasizes articulate midrange and musical warmth with ceramic pole pieces, while the EMG 57 focuses on a presence peak at 2.11 kHz and punchy output with steel poles for cutting through mixes. The 66 suits players prioritizing tonal character and definition; the 57 is built for bridge-position aggression and live cut-through.
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EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Ceramic pole pieces deliver musical warmth alongside clarity
- ✓ Articulate midrange response tailored for tonal character
- ✓ Excellent for both bridge and neck positions
- ✓ Tight low end with minimal noise floor
Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Steel poles with 2.11 kHz presence peak cuts through dense mixes
- ✓ Specified output voltages (3.00V string, 4.50V strum) provide predictable aggression
- ✓ Specifically optimized for bridge-position high-gain work
- ✓ Battery rated for 1500 hours typical use
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for live metal performance?
The EMG 57's presence peak at 2.11 kHz and specified output voltages are engineered specifically for cutting through live band mixes in high-gain contexts. The 66 also works well but prioritizes musical warmth over presence-peak aggression.
Can either work in neck position?
The EMG 66 is described as suitable for both bridge and neck positions. The EMG 57 is specifically called a bridge-position workhorse, suggesting it is optimized for that role.
What is the main tonal difference between ceramic and steel poles?
The EMG 66 uses ceramic poles for a warmer, more musical character with articulate midrange. The EMG 57 uses steel poles paired with a presence peak at 2.11 kHz, designed to cut through without muddiness in dense mixes.
Are the installation and power requirements the same?
Both use solderless 5-wire plus ground and battery connectors and require a single 9V battery. The EMG 57 battery is rated for 1500 hours of typical use; the 66 spec is not provided.