EMG 45P-RC 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
- EMG5277
Description
EMG 45P-RC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 45P-RC is a compact active soapbar pickup engineered for tight string spacing and modern recording bass chains. Its ceramic magnet construction and solderless wiring system streamline studio setup, while the controlled output and low noise floor deliver articulate, punchy tone across the frequency spectrum—essential for clean DI recording and blending with amp tracking.
Recording Output & Tonal Character
This pickup produces 2.00V output in finger/thumb technique and 4.50V in thump mode, providing session-ready dynamic range without aggressive peaks that complicate mix-down. The 3.20 kHz resonant frequency centers midrange presence, ideal for carving through dense arrangements while maintaining clarity in the low end—critical for modern production aesthetics.
Active Electronics & Studio Reliability
Powered by a single 9V battery, the 45P-RC draws only 80 microamps at 9V, delivering an impressive 3000-hour battery life across extended session days and tours. Output noise of -106 dB ensures a pristine signal path for direct recording, and the 10 kΩ output impedance integrates seamlessly with standard bass preamps, audio interfaces, and amplifier inputs used in professional tracking setups.
Key Features
- Housing length: 4.5 inches (115mm)
- Width: 38.1mm (1.50") — compact for tight string spacing
- Maximum recommended string width: 92.0mm (3.62")
- Magnet type: Ceramic
- Resonant frequency: 3.20 kHz
- Output voltage (finger/thumb): 2.00V
- Output voltage (thump): 4.50V
- Output noise (60 Hz): -106 dB
- Output impedance: 10 kΩ
- Current @ 9V: 80 microamps
- Battery life: 3000 hours
- Installation: Solderless wiring system
The EMG 45P-RC combines versatile output staging for multiple tracking scenarios, extended battery life for studio endurance, and low electrical noise in a format built for six-string bass players demanding studio-grade reliability and articulation.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 45P-RC is a compact active soapbar pickup that captures articulate, punchy bass tone with extended midrange presence—perfect for recording studio sessions across funk, jazz, and progressive genres where clarity and low noise are non-negotiable. Its -106 dB noise floor and controlled output integrate cleanly into your signal chain, letting the bass cut through dense mixes without harshness, while the solderless installation and 3000-hour battery life eliminate setup friction and session interruptions. Built for six-string basses with tight string spacing, it delivers versatile dynamic range for layered recording and mixing.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Progressive
Not the best pick for
- – Practice
- – Budget builds
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is B-Stock and does this pickup have cosmetic issues?
This product is not listed as B-Stock, so it arrives in new condition with no cosmetic imperfections.
Will this pickup fit my six-string bass?
The 45P-RC is 4.5 inches long and 1.50 inches wide, designed for tight string spacing up to 3.62 inches wide. Confirm your bass's soapbar routing and string spacing match these dimensions before purchase.
How long will the battery last?
The single 9V battery delivers approximately 3000 hours of playback (roughly four months of daily use), and the pickup draws only 80 microamps, minimizing drain during storage.
How does this pickup compare to passive alternatives?
The 45P-RC is an active pickup, meaning it requires a 9V battery and outputs between 2.00V and 4.50V depending on playing technique. This delivers a cleaner, lower-noise signal (-106 dB) and more consistent midrange presence than most passive soapbars, making it ideal for studio and live settings where clarity matters.
Is installation difficult?
No—the solderless wiring system simplifies installation. If you have basic bass hardware skills, you can swap it in without soldering; otherwise, a tech can install it quickly.
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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