EMG7160 vs EMG7161 — Compare

EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Chrome vs EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome

Both are the same EMG 57/66 TW dual-mode active humbucker set with identical electronics and switching capability—the only difference is finish: brushed chrome versus black chrome. Choose based purely on which aesthetic matches your guitar's hardware and personal preference.

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

EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Chrome

$319.00
View EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Chrome

EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome

$319.00
View EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome

Specs side by side

EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed ChromeEMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome
Price$319.00$319.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Chrome

  • ✓ Brushed chrome finish suits both modern and classic guitar aesthetics
  • ✓ Dual-mode versatility with push-pull switching per pickup
  • ✓ Warm resonant neck pickup with ceramic-alnico hybrid magnets
  • ✓ Complete solderless wiring harness included for easy installation

Why choose EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome

  • ✓ Black chrome finish matches contemporary hardware and darker aesthetics
  • ✓ Tight articulation and fast transient response optimized for metal and hard rock
  • ✓ Covered design shields against electromagnetic interference
  • ✓ 10K DC resistance rating ensures consistent output across frequencies
Bottom line: If your guitar's hardware leans toward silver or polished tones, choose the brushed chrome version; if your hardware is black or dark, the black chrome finish will look more cohesive. Tonally and functionally, both sets are identical and perform equally well for metal, hard rock, and progressive music.

Frequently asked questions

What is the actual tonal difference between these two sets?

There is no tonal difference. Both sets use identical 57TW and 66TW pickups with the same magnet configurations, active electronics, and dual-mode switching. The only difference is the finish—brushed chrome versus black chrome.

Will either finish wear or tarnish differently over time?

Both are chrome finishes and will behave similarly with normal handling and humidity exposure. Black chrome may show fingerprints less visibly than brushed chrome, but longevity and maintenance requirements are equivalent.

Are these pickups suitable for genres outside metal and hard rock?

Yes. The dual-mode design allows you to switch each pickup between single-coil snap and full humbucker warmth, making them adaptable for progressive rock, studio work, and touring applications. They are not recommended for traditional jazz, folk, or country where more vintage or organic tones are expected.

Do I need soldering experience to install either set?

No. Both sets ship with a complete solderless wiring harness and push-pull potentiometers, eliminating the need for traditional soldering. Installation is straightforward for intermediate and advanced players.

✨
🎸

Welcome! Before we chat…

Drop your name and email so we can follow up if you reach us after hours.

We never share your info.

✨
🟢 Specialist connected