EMG4662 vs EMG4663 — Compare
EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Both are budget-friendly active humbuckers with nearly identical output specs, but the 57 emphasizes articulate clarity with a focused 2.11 kHz midrange peak, while the 66 pairs Alnico V with ceramic poles for tighter low-end control and balanced aggression. Choose the 57 for maximum cut and presence in dense mixes; choose the 66 if you prioritize controlled low-end definition in drop tunings or heavily distorted applications.
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EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Focused 2.11 kHz resonant peak cuts through dense mixes with articulate clarity
- ✓ Alnico V magnet structure delivers transparent harmonic depth
- ✓ Extremely low noise floor (-100 dB) keeps signal clean at high gain
- ✓ Versatile for both bridge and neck placement across genres
Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Ceramic poles paired with Alnico V provide tighter, more controlled low end
- ✓ Solderless 2-wire plus battery wiring simplifies installation and mods
- ✓ Brushed chrome cap offers aesthetic flexibility with vintage and modern hardware
- ✓ Balanced output across all registers excels in drop tunings
Frequently asked questions
What's the actual tonal difference between these two pickups?
The 57 has a documented resonant peak at 2.11 kHz that emphasizes upper midrange articulation and presence, while the 66 uses ceramic poles to control and tighten the low end without a specified peak frequency, creating more balanced aggression. In high-gain applications, the 57 cuts harder; the 66 sits tighter in a mix.
Do both pickups have the same output and battery life?
Yes—both deliver 3.0V string-level and 4.5V strum output, draw 160 microamps at 9V, and provide approximately 1500 hours of battery life per 9V cell. The main difference is tonal voicing, not raw power.
Which is easier to install?
The EMG 66 uses solderless 2-wire plus battery connectivity, making it simpler for quick swaps and modifications. The 57's specifications do not highlight solderless wiring, so it may require soldering during installation.
Are both suitable for metal and hard rock?
Both are marketed for metal and hard rock with low noise floors and high-gain capability. The 57 excels where cutting presence is needed; the 66 is specifically optimized for drop tunings and players who want controlled aggression with tight low end.