EMG7457 vs EMG7812 — Compare
EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red vs EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
The EMG 66 delivers a midrange-focused, balanced tone suited for jazz, fusion, and studio versatility, while the EMG 57 emphasizes upper-midrange articulation and high output for metal and hard rock. Choose the 66 if you play across genres and value warmth; choose the 57 if you prioritize tight, aggressive clarity and high-gain definition.
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EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
Specs side by side
| EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red | EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
- ✓ Midrange-focused tone cuts through mixes while maintaining thickness and clarity
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (1.61 kHz) adds warmth for jazz and fusion applications
- ✓ Balanced 3V single-string / 4.5V strum output suits both clean and distorted tones
- ✓ Versatile across jazz, fusion, hard rock, and studio recording
Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
- ✓ Higher resonant frequency (2.11 kHz) emphasizes upper-midrange articulation and string definition
- ✓ Tight low end and focused response ideal for high-gain metal and hard rock
- ✓ Consistent 4.5V output with -100 dB noise floor excels in recording and live performance
- ✓ Steel pole pieces add aggression and snap compared to ceramic alternatives
Frequently asked questions
What is the main tonal difference between these two pickups?
The 66 centers on a 1.61 kHz resonant frequency for midrange warmth and balance, while the 57 peaks at 2.11 kHz for upper-midrange brightness and articulation. The 66 sounds thicker; the 57 sounds tighter and more aggressive.
Which pickup is better for jazz and blues?
The EMG 66 is explicitly designed for jazz and fusion with its balanced output and midrange focus. The EMG 57 is not recommended for jazz or blues, as its upper-midrange emphasis and high-output character are optimized for metal and hard rock.
Are the output levels different?
Both pickups deliver 4.5V in strum mode with -100 dB noise floor. The key difference is how that output is voiced: the 66 emphasizes mids for warmth, while the 57 emphasizes upper-mids for cutting clarity in high-gain settings.
Do both use the same magnet and pole piece construction?
No. The 66 uses Alnico Type A magnets with ceramic pole pieces for a balanced, warm response. The 57 uses Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces for a focused, aggressive tone. This contributes significantly to their different character.