EMG5987 vs EMG6086 — Compare

EMG 35P4X-RC Active Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 40P5-RC 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

The 35P4X-RC is a compact P-bass pickup for extended-range basses (5-6 strings) with classic P-bass tone and tight low end, while the 40P5-RC is a soapbar design optimized specifically for 5-string basses with a focus on clarity, articulate midrange, and ultra-low noise. Choose the 35P4X-RC if you play 5-6 string extended-range basses and want traditional P-bass character; choose the 40P5-RC if you play standard 5-string basses and prioritize modern clarity and studio-grade signal integrity.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG 35P4X-RC Active Bass Pickup in Black

$119.00
View EMG 35P4X-RC Active Bass Pickup in Black

EMG 40P5-RC 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

$119.00
View EMG 40P5-RC 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

Specs side by side

EMG 35P4X-RC Active Bass Pickup in BlackEMG 40P5-RC 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
Price$119.00$119.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 35P4X-RC Active Bass Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Compact 3.5-inch housing fits extended-range basses (5-6 strings) without modification
  • ✓ Classic split-coil P-bass design delivers tight lows and strong midrange character
  • ✓ Accommodates wider string spacing up to 2.50 inches for demanding multi-string setups
  • ✓ Proven P-bass tone ideal for funk, rock, and progressive applications

Why choose EMG 40P5-RC 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Ultra-low noise floor (-104 dB) ensures studio-grade signal integrity in all environments
  • ✓ Soapbar form factor fits standard modern 5-string bass cavities without routing
  • ✓ Optimized 3.20 kHz resonant frequency for articulate, focused midrange presence
  • ✓ Dynamic output range (2.00V fingerstyle to 4.50V thump) maintains headroom and clarity
Bottom line: Select the 35P4X-RC if you own extended-range 5 or 6-string basses and want classic P-bass punch; select the 40P5-RC if you play standard 5-string basses and work in studios or electrically noisy live venues where low-noise output is critical.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup works for 6-string bass?

Only the 35P4X-RC is designed for 6-string setups, with a maximum string spacing of 2.50 inches. The 40P5-RC is engineered specifically for standard 5-string bass string spacing and will not accommodate 6-string configurations.

What's the noise difference between these pickups?

The 40P5-RC specifies an ultra-low noise floor of -104 dB at 60 Hz, making it superior for studios and electrically noisy venues. The 35P4X-RC uses reverse-coil winding for hum cancellation but does not publish a noise specification.

Do both pickups include complete wiring systems?

Yes, both ship with solderless wiring kits including volume and tone pots, battery compartment, output jacks, cables, and mounting hardware for plug-and-play installation.

Which pickup has higher output for live performance?

The 40P5-RC publishes specific output voltages (2.00V fingerstyle, 4.50V thump) optimized for dynamic playing. The 35P4X-RC emphasizes 'strong high output' but does not specify voltage levels, making direct comparison difficult.

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