EMG 57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4059
Description
EMG 57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 57 is a high-output active humbucker engineered for clean, articulate recording capture with an ultralow noise floor—essential for producers tracking guitar through audio interfaces and mixing in quiet control environments. Its solderless installation enables quick experimentation and gear swaps during sessions, while the brushed chrome finish integrates seamlessly into both vintage and contemporary instrument aesthetics. This pickup delivers consistent harmonic definition across rhythm and lead passages, translating reliably through DAWs and digital recording chains.
Tone & Recording Character
Built on an Alnico V magnet with steel pole pieces, the EMG 57 produces a resonant frequency of 2.11 kHz that centers midrange presence and treble articulation for precise waveform capture on tape and digital systems. Output specs measure 3.00 V on single strings and 4.50 V on full strums, with an exceptionally low noise floor of -100 dB at 60 Hz—a defining characteristic of quality active electronics that eliminates hum and RFI interference from appearing in final mixdowns.
Power Efficiency & Studio Setup
This active pickup draws only 160 microamps at 9V, delivering an impressive 1500-hour battery life per standard 9V cell—meaning extended session days without power concerns. The solderless 1/4" mono phone jack connection streamlines signal routing changes and quick troubleshooting between takes, while a maximum supply rating of 27 volts DC provides headroom for optional preamp or buffer integration in signal chains.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet with steel pole pieces
- Humbucker configuration (H) for 6-string guitar
- Resonant frequency: 2.11 kHz
- Output voltage: 3.00 V (single string), 4.50 V (strum)
- Output noise: -100 dB at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 Kohm
- Current draw: 160 microamps @ 9V
- Battery life: 1500 hours
- Maximum supply: 27 volts DC
- Solderless 1/4" mono phone plug connector
- Brushed chrome finish
- Active electronics design
The EMG 57 combines low-noise active electronics, refined tonal character, and straightforward installation into a single package that performs equally well in studio recording and live performance.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 57 is a high-output active humbucker that captures articulate, punchy tone with exceptional clarity and minimal hum—perfect for recording metal, rock, and hard-rock sessions where definition matters. Its balanced midrange and treble resonance (2.11 kHz) keeps tracks tight and focused in a mix, and the low noise floor (-100 dB) means clean tracking without unwanted interference. Powered by a standard 9V battery with 1500-hour life, it's a dependable choice for studio work where you need consistent, noise-free performance.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the EMG 57 good for high-gain playing?
The pickup's high output (4.50 V on full strums) and extremely low noise floor (-100 dB at 60 Hz) ensure that even heavy distortion remains articulate and punchy without hum or feedback artifacts. Its active electronics design is engineered to stay clean across all gain structures.
How easy is it to install?
The EMG 57 features solderless installation with a 1/4" mono phone jack connector, meaning you can swap it in and out without soldering. A standard 9V battery powers it, and it will run for approximately 1500 hours per cell.
What genres is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG 57 excels in metal, rock, hard rock, and studio sessions. Its high output and tight definition make it less ideal for traditional jazz or folk applications, where warmer, lower-output tones are typically preferred.
How does it compare to other high-output humbuckers?
The EMG 57 sits alongside comparable models like the Seymour Duncan JB, Fishman Fluence Modern, and DiMarzio Super Distortion. Its distinguishing feature is the combination of active electronics, an exceptionally low noise floor, and straightforward solderless installation.
What is the brushed chrome finish, and does it affect tone?
The brushed chrome finish is a cosmetic treatment on the pickup cover that complements both modern and classic guitar aesthetics. The finish itself does not affect the pickup's electrical performance or tone.
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.
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