EMG 45J 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG521
Description
EMG 45J 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 45J is a professional-grade active soapbar pickup engineered to deliver punchy, articulate midrange response and extended clarity across the frequency spectrum in studio bass recording. Its compact 4.5-inch housing and optimized 92mm maximum string width integrate seamlessly into modern six-string bass designs, capturing the tight, defined character that defines EMG's active pickup philosophy—essential for tracking bass that sits cleanly in dense mixes without losing definition.
Tone & Recording Character
Built around a radiased ceramic bar magnet and humbucker technology with blade pole pieces, this active design yields a 4.40 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes punch and articulation while minimizing mud—critical for preserving bass clarity during overdub sessions and mix-down. The 2.00V finger/thumb output and 4.50V thump output provide expressive dynamic range that captures playing technique with precision, while 10 Kohm output impedance ensures clean, uncolored signal transmission to your interface or amp without impedance-related phase shift.
Integration & Installation
The pickup ships with EMG Quik-Connect solderless wiring, eliminating solder workflow delays during instrument setup or swaps between session basses. Positioned as a bridge pickup, it features a black cover and is made in the United States, backed by EMG's reputation for durability and consistent performance across sessions. The active circuit draws only 80 microamps at 9V, delivering approximately 3000 hours of battery life per standard 9V battery—ensuring reliable operation through extended recording days without mid-session power concerns.
Key Features
- 4.5-inch (115mm) soapbar housing for six-string bass
- Active pickup with radiused ceramic bar magnet
- Humbucker technology with blade pole pieces
- 4.40 kHz resonant frequency for punchy midrange response
- 2.00V finger/thumb output; 4.50V thump output
- 10 Kohm output impedance
- Maximum 92mm (3.62") string width accommodation
- EMG Quik-Connect solderless wiring system
- 80 microamps current draw; approximately 3000-hour battery life at 9V
- Bridge position configuration
- Maximum supply rating: 27 Volts DC
- Made in the United States
The EMG 45J combines articulate active electronics with time-tested humbucker design, making it a studio staple for bass players and engineers who demand consistent definition and reliable output across recording sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 45J is an active six-string bass pickup that cuts through dense mixes with punchy midrange response and articulate clarity, thanks to its 4.40 kHz resonant frequency and humbucker blade-pole design. It offers dual output modes—a measured 2.00V for fingerstyle definition and 4.50V for aggressive thump—giving producers and engineers flexible dynamic range in the studio without requiring high supply voltage. Solderless wiring and low power draw (80 microamps) make it practical for tracking and session work.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Acoustic Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What output levels does the 45J provide, and how do I switch between them?
The pickup delivers 2.00V in standard finger/thumb mode and can jump to 4.50V in thump output, giving you expressive dynamic range for different playing techniques. Your bass electronics or preamp will determine how you access these modes—check your instrument's wiring configuration.
How long will a 9V battery last in this pickup?
At 80 microamps current draw, a standard 9V battery will last approximately 3000 hours of continuous operation before needing replacement.
Will this pickup fit my six-string bass?
The 45J's 4.5-inch (115mm) soapbar housing and 92mm maximum string width are designed for modern six-string bass bodies. Verify your instrument's bridge-position dimensions against these specs before purchasing.
Is soldering required for installation?
No—the EMG Quik-Connect solderless wiring system allows you to install or swap the pickup without soldering, making future modifications straightforward.
What tone profile should I expect from this pickup?
The 45J emphasizes punchy midrange, articulate response, and tight low end with defined character. Its 4.40 kHz resonant frequency minimizes mud while maximizing clarity, making it well-suited to funk, progressive, and studio tracking work.
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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