EMG 57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4305
Description
EMG 57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 57 delivers a punchy, articulate active response that cuts through dense mixes without sacrificing harmonic complexity. This black chrome-finished humbucker pairs aggressive midrange presence with tight low-end control, translating to defined recordings across high-gain and clean sessions alike. The solderless design speeds installation and allows quick experimentation with positioning and pairing during tracking setup.
Tone & Output Characteristics for Recording
Output sits at 3 V on single strings and 4.5 V on full strums, providing enough headroom to drive audio interface inputs and preamps without excessive noise or unwanted saturation. The 2.11 KHz resonant frequency emphasizes articulation and note definition across the midrange, ensuring every riff registers with clarity in the mix, while the Alnico V magnet and steel pole pieces preserve natural sustain and dynamic response that translates through gain staging and compression.
Signal Chain Performance & Reliability
Noise floor reaches −100 dB at 60 Hz, ensuring a clean signal path free of hum during overdubs and take after take. Current draw of 160 mA at 9 V yields approximately 1500 hours of battery life per set, keeping sessions uninterrupted without mid-session power concerns. The 10 KOhm output impedance and 10K DC resistance guarantee transparent coupling to standard audio interfaces, preamps, and pedalboards in the signal chain. Maximum supply voltage of 27 V DC accommodates multi-battery configurations for extended headroom and noise reduction if needed.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces for focused, articulate tone
- Active humbucker design with 3 V string output and 4.5 V strum output
- 2.11 KHz resonant frequency for midrange presence and clarity
- −100 dB noise floor at 60 Hz for noise-free operation
- 10 KOhm output impedance and 10K DC resistance
- 160 mA current draw at 9 V
- 1500-hour battery life per 9 V set
- 27 V DC maximum supply for multi-battery configurations
- Black chrome finish
- Solderless installation for quick, tool-free mounting
The EMG 57 combines high-output active performance with the tonal flexibility needed in modern recording sessions, backed by industry-standard component quality and straightforward setup for quick tracking turnarounds.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 57 captures punchy, articulate high-output signal ideal for recording metal, progressive, and modern rock in a home or commercial studio setting. Its aggressive midrange and tight low end sit cleanly in dense mixes; the −100 dB noise floor and transparent 10 KOhm output impedance ensure a silent, uncolored signal path to your interface or console. Install it solderless, dial in session tones from clean to high-gain, and rely on 1500 hours of battery life per 9 V set to complete full recording projects without power concerns.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ High-gain contexts
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles suit the EMG 57 best?
The EMG 57 excels in metal, hard rock, progressive, and high-gain studio work where articulation and midrange presence are critical. Its punchy tone and focused sustain are less suited to traditional jazz or folk contexts.
How long does a 9 V battery last?
One 9 V battery set delivers approximately 1500 hours of playing time at 160 mA current draw, meaning a single set typically covers several weeks of regular use before replacement.
Is solderless installation really tool-free?
Yes. The solderless design allows quick mounting and repositioning without soldering iron or wiring knowledge, letting you experiment with placement or swap pickups in minutes.
How does the EMG 57 compare to other active humbuckers like the EMG 81?
The 57 delivers more articulation and midrange clarity through its 2.11 kHz resonant peak, while the 81 emphasizes tighter lows and smoother highs. The 57 suits articulate, punchy playing; the 81 favors smoother, darker tones.
What output level and impedance should I expect?
Output sits at 3 V on single strings and 4.5 V on full strums, with 10 KOhm output impedance and 10K DC resistance, ensuring transparent coupling to standard guitar electronics and pedalboards without signal loss or impedance mismatch.
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. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. 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.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.