EMG5261 vs EMG5356 — Compare
EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG James Hetfield Het Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Gold
The EMG 57/66 uses 27V DC circuitry for extended frequency response and lower noise across a wider range of instruments, while the Het Set uses a single 9V battery with higher output voltages optimized specifically for metal aggression and drop tunings. Choose the 57/66 for versatility across metal subgenres and studio clarity; choose the Het Set if you prioritize maximum midrange bite and have a guitar already dialed in for heavy riffing.
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EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
EMG James Hetfield Het Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome | EMG James Hetfield Het Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $269.00 | $269.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ 27V DC power delivers lower noise and extended frequency response for cleaner tone across cable lengths
- ✓ Balanced neck/bridge pairing (1.61 kHz and 2.11 kHz) works across metal, progressive, and studio applications
- ✓ 5-wire plus ground configuration offers greater wiring flexibility and control options
Why choose EMG James Hetfield Het Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Single 9V battery design with up to 1000 hours battery life is simpler and more practical for touring
- ✓ Higher output voltages (2.10V bridge, 1.60V neck) deliver aggressive punch optimized for drop tunings and thrash
- ✓ Includes tone and volume potentiometers plus battery bus in the box for faster setup
Frequently asked questions
What's the main power difference between these two sets?
The 57/66 uses 27V DC circuitry for extended frequency response and consistent noise performance, while the Het Set runs on a single 9V battery. The 27V system is quieter and more stable across different cable impedances; the 9V system is simpler but offers higher output voltages.
Which set is better for drop tunings and thrash metal?
The Het Set is engineered specifically for aggressive high-output tone and heavy riffing in drop tunings, with higher DC resistance values and output voltages designed for that application. The 57/66 is more balanced and works well across metal subgenres but is not optimized for extreme drop tunings.
Do both sets include everything needed for installation?
The Het Set includes potentiometers, tone controls, stereo output jack, and battery bus in the box. The 57/66 does not list included components beyond the pickups themselves, so you may need to source wiring and pots separately.
Which sounds warmer or more refined?
The 57/66 has a warmer neck position (1.61 kHz resonance) and articulate highs balanced for controlled lows. The Het Set emphasizes aggressive midrange bite and cutting sustain, so it sounds tighter and more aggressive, not warmer.