EMG 57 Long Shaft 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
- EMG3800
Description
EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 57 is a bridge pickup engineered for controlled, articulate tracking with the signal integrity of active electronics. Its compact form factor and solderless installation make it straightforward to integrate into existing setups, while the brushed chrome finish delivers understated aesthetic appeal. This pickup excels in recording and mix applications where clarity, definition, and predictable response matter as much as output level.
Tone & Recording Response
Built around an Alnico V magnet with steel pole pieces, the 57 generates a resonant frequency of 2.11 kHz, yielding tight low-end and focused midrange character that cuts through dense arrangements and sits naturally in stereo mixes. Active circuitry delivers 3.00 V single-string output and 4.50 V strum output, with exceptionally low noise at -100 dB (60 Hz)—essential for clean tracking, post-processing headroom, and noise-free gain staging without unwanted hum artifacts.
Studio Integration & Specifications
The solderless 1/4" mono phone plug connector eliminates the need for wiring modifications on compatible systems, accelerating setup and reducing session downtime. Operating from a single 9V battery with 1500-hour battery life and accepting up to 27 Volts DC maximum supply, this active design maintains consistent output across varied power configurations and pedalboard setups. Output impedance of 10 Kohm ensures stable impedance matching with standard audio interfaces, preamps, and signal chains during recording and live tracking.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet with steel pole pieces
- Active humbucker configuration
- Brushed chrome finish
- Resonant frequency: 2.11 kHz
- Output voltage (single string): 3.00 V
- Output voltage (strum): 4.50 V
- Output impedance: 10 Kohm
- Output noise: -100 dB at 60 Hz
- 1500-hour battery life at 9V operation
- Maximum supply voltage: 27 Volts DC
- Solderless 1/4" mono phone plug connector
- Current draw: 160 microamps at 9V
The EMG 57 combines active signal integrity with straightforward installation and transparent tonal character, delivering the controlled, articulate output and low-noise floor essential for professional tracking, direct recording, and consistent mix compatibility.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 57 brings high-output active humbucker tone to bridge position with exceptional clarity and controlled dynamics that cut through dense mixes without muddiness. Its tight low end and focused midrange sit naturally in heavy and progressive genres, while the -100 dB noise floor and solderless connection make tracking and layering straightforward in home-studio or professional sessions.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, Home Recording |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Tight low end, focused midrange, high output, articulate, low noise |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the solderless connector mean for installation?
The EMG 57 uses a 1/4" mono phone plug connector that eliminates the need to solder wires into your guitar's electronics. This speeds up installation and works seamlessly with compatible guitar systems.
Is this pickup good for jazz or blues?
The EMG 57 is engineered for metal, hard rock, and progressive music where articulate, high-output tone is essential. It's not designed for jazz or blues, where softer, more nuanced pickup characteristics are typically preferred.
How long does the battery last?
At 9V operation, the EMG 57 delivers approximately 1500 hours of battery life. The pickup also accepts up to 27 Volts DC, allowing you to power it through other external supply options if you prefer.
What makes the active electronics quiet?
The active circuitry achieves -100 dB output noise at 60 Hz, eliminating hum during recording or amplified performance. This low-noise design makes the pickup reliable for studio tracking and live use without unwanted background noise.
How does the EMG 57 compare to the EMG 81?
The 57 is slightly more balanced with focused mids and articulate response, while the 81 leans toward tighter, brighter character. Both are high-output active humbuckers; choice depends on whether you prefer the 57's resonant tone or the 81's sharper edge.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $10 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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