EMG521 vs EMG5252 — Compare
EMG 45J 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The 45J is a six-string bass pickup optimized for funk and progressive styles, while the 66 is a six-string guitar pickup built for metal and hard rock. Choose the 45J if you play bass; choose the 66 if you play guitar.
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EMG 45J 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 45J 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black | EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 45J 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Purpose-built for six-string bass with 92mm string width
- ✓ Finger/thumb and thump dual outputs for expressive dynamics
- ✓ 4.5-inch soapbar housing fits modern bass designs without modification
- ✓ Approximately 3000 hours of battery life per 9V
Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Long shaft potentiometers fit deeper guitar body cavities without routing
- ✓ Integrated 25K volume and tone controls eliminate extra wiring
- ✓ Alnico V magnets with ceramic poles deliver aggressive high-end clarity
- ✓ High output and low noise floor optimized for high-gain amplification
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup in my instrument?
No. The 45J is engineered specifically for six-string bass with bass-appropriate dimensions and outputs. The 66 is designed for six-string guitar. Using one in the wrong instrument will result in poor fit and tone.
Which pickup has higher output?
The 66 is described as high-output and designed for high-gain contexts. The 45J provides 2.00V finger/thumb and 4.50V thump outputs optimized for bass dynamics rather than maximum gain.
Do both use solderless installation?
Yes. The 45J includes EMG Quik-Connect solderless wiring. The 66 features a complete solderless harness with pre-assembled potentiometers, volume, tone controls, and battery bus.
What genres suit each pickup best?
The 45J excels in funk, progressive, and studio bass work. The 66 is optimized for metal, hard rock, and high-gain playing styles on guitar.