EMG5973 vs EMG5979 — Compare
EMG F-Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra vs EMG Super 77 Long Shaft Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
The F-Fat 55 uses Alnico magnets (2 in neck, 5 in bridge) for warmer vintage tones and handles hard rock and metal better; the Super 77 uses ceramic magnets with open-coil design for classic humbucker voice and is better suited to home recording and straightforward retrofits. Choose F-Fat 55 for aggressive genres and gigging professionals, Super 77 for bedroom players and retro-focused builds.
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EMG F-Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra
EMG Super 77 Long Shaft Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG F-Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra | EMG Super 77 Long Shaft Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $209.00 | $209.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG F-Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra
- ✓ Alnico magnet pairing (2 and 5) delivers warmer, more articulate vintage character
- ✓ Higher bridge output (4.0V) and neck output (4.5V) cuts through live mix
- ✓ Specifically voiced for hard rock, metal, and studio session work
Why choose EMG Super 77 Long Shaft Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Open-coil design adds classic humbucker character and aesthetic appeal
- ✓ Complete control package included (volume and tone pots, battery bus, output jack)
- ✓ Long shaft potentiometers fit standard American control cavities without modification
Frequently asked questions
Which set has higher output for cutting through a live mix?
The F-Fat 55 delivers higher string-level output: 4.5V neck and 4.0V bridge versus the Super 77's specifications. This makes the F-Fat 55 better for stage and studio tracking where presence matters.
Are both installation systems truly solderless?
Yes, both use EMG's solderless Quik-Connect system and plug-and-play design. The Super 77 includes a complete control package with pots and electronics; the F-Fat 55 requires you to source or reuse existing controls.
Which magnet type sounds warmer and more vintage?
The F-Fat 55's Alnico magnets (especially Alnico 2 in the neck) typically yield warmer, more pronounced vintage character. The Super 77's ceramic magnets produce a more neutral, balanced classic humbucker voice without as much warmth.
How long does a 9V battery last in each?
Both draw 350 microamps at 9V and deliver approximately 715 hours of playing time per battery, roughly 3–4 months of moderate daily use. Both also accept up to 27V DC for extended headroom if desired.