EMG 45DC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG661
Description
EMG 45DC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 45DC is a compact active soapbar pickup engineered to deliver clean, articulate output with a noise floor so low it won't compromise your mix. Its dual-coil ceramic bar magnet configuration captures tight low-end response and defined midrange clarity, making it ideal for studio tracking where every note needs to cut through without coloration. The active electronics provide extended headroom and consistent gain across the entire tonal range, translating directly to stable, predictable recordings across multiple takes.
Electronics & Power Management
This pickup operates as an active system with a recommended 18 Volt supply for maximum headroom in the recording chain, though it runs reliably on standard 9V operation for extended battery life of approximately 1200 hours. The circuit accepts up to 27 Volts DC maximum, offering flexibility in powering configurations for different studio setups. Output impedance sits at 2 Kohm with an industry-leading noise floor of -115 dBV, ensuring ultra-quiet operation that keeps your recordings transparent and free from unwanted noise even in high-gain tracking sessions.
Output Characteristics & Frequency Response
The pickup delivers 1.4V RMS output with 2.0V peak voltage, providing ample signal for audio interfaces and mixing without requiring external preamps in your signal chain. A 4.3 kHz resonant frequency positions the midrange peak where bass articulation and note definition live, ensuring your bass sits clearly in dense mixes while maintaining full low-end extension for depth and power in the bottom end.
Key Features
- Dual coils loaded with ceramic bar magnets in parallel configuration
- Housing dimensions: 115.0mm (4.50") length × 38.1mm (1.50") width
- Maximum string spacing: 95.25mm
- Active pickup system with 3-core wiring
- Output impedance: 2 Kohm
- RMS output voltage: 1.4V; Peak output voltage: 2.0V
- Output noise: -115 dBV
- Resonant frequency: 4.3 kHz
- 18 Volt recommended supply; maximum 27 Volts DC
- Battery life: 1200 hours at 9V operation
- Includes Quik-Connect cable, volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, and adjustment screws
- Black finish
The 45DC combines noise-free active electronics with a focused midrange character that captures professional recordings with clarity and definition, session after session.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 45DC is a professional-grade active pickup that delivers studio-ready articulation and note clarity with an extended noise floor of -115 dBV. Its 4.3 kHz midrange peak sits exactly where bass definition lives in a mix, while 1.4V RMS output provides ample headroom for recording chains and digital interfaces. Flexible power options (9V to 27V DC) and compact soapbar design make it an easy retrofit for 6-string tracking and overdubs.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ studio sessions
- ✓ live performance
- ✓ funk
- ✓ progressive
Not the best pick for
- – traditional jazz
- – folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What power options does the 45DC support?
The pickup runs on 18V recommended for maximum headroom, standard 9V for approximately 1200 hours of battery life, or anywhere up to 27V DC maximum. This flexibility lets you choose between extended session time or peak performance depending on your rig needs.
Is this pickup suitable for traditional jazz and folk styles?
No; the 45DC is engineered for modern styles like funk and progressive that benefit from its tight low end and articulate midrange. Its character and output voicing are optimized for cutting and clarity rather than the warm, rounded tone those acoustic-rooted genres typically demand.
What comes included with the pickup?
The package includes the pickup itself, Quik-Connect cable, volume and tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, and adjustment screws. You'll have everything needed for installation and wiring.
How does the 45DC compare to other dual-coil active pickups?
The 45DC competes directly with the Seymour Duncan SJB-3s, Bartolini CBJD6C-B1, and DiMarzio Model J. Its key strengths are industry-leading noise performance at -115 dBV, flexible power architecture, and a midrange peak tuned specifically for articulation and punch in dense mixes.
What skill level is this pickup for?
The 45DC is suited for intermediate, advanced, and professional players. Its high output, low noise, and extended headroom eliminate common hassles, but benefit most from players with solid technique and an understanding of active electronics and impedance matching.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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