EMG 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3996
Description
EMG 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 60 delivers the balanced, articulate character that defined active humbucker voicing across countless professional recordings. This covered ceramic humbucker pairs tight low-end definition with clear midrange presence, offering recording engineers and producers a pickup that cuts through dense mixes without losing note separation. The brushed chrome finish integrates seamlessly into modern and classic instrument aesthetics alike.
Tone & Recording Character
Tuned to a resonant frequency of 2.95 kHz, the EMG 60 achieves its signature clarity through controlled peak response. The 1.0 RMS output voltage and 3.0 peak output voltage sit comfortably in the middle of the active humbucker range—hot enough for tight saturation and compression during mix processing, refined enough to preserve articulation across gain stages and through tracking chains. 10K DC resistance ensures predictable loading on buffered or unbuffered signal paths, simplifying gain structure decisions during recording sessions.
Power & Integration
A single 9V battery powers the active electronics, rated for approximately 3000 hours of continuous use—roughly four months of eight-hour daily operation. The solderless connectivity streamlines installation into instruments designated for studio work, while the 2-wire plus battery configuration keeps wiring straightforward and reliable. Current draw of 80 microamps at 9V is negligible, extending battery life between changes and reducing downtime between sessions.
Key Features
- Active humbucker for controlled output and low impedance operation
- Ceramic magnet construction
- Covered design for noise reduction and aesthetic integration
- 10K ohm DC resistance and output impedance
- 2.95 kHz resonant frequency for clarity and midrange focus
- 1.0 RMS / 3.0 peak output voltage
- 80 microamps current draw at 9V
- Approximately 3000-hour battery life per 9V cell
- Solderless quick-connect wiring
- 6-string configuration
- Brushed chrome finish
- Single 9V battery power requirement
The EMG 60 remains a reliable studio workhorse for engineers and producers seeking balanced active pickup performance without compromise on articulation, sustain, or mix-ready clarity.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 60 is a versatile active humbucker engineered for studio sessions and mix-heavy recording, pairing controlled saturation with a clear midrange that stays intelligible under compression and EQ. Its tuned 2.95 kHz resonant peak and moderate 1.0 RMS output make it predictable across recording chains—whether you're layering dense guitars in metal and rock or tracking progressive arrangements. The solderless design and four-month battery life between changes minimize studio downtime.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level do I need to install the EMG 60?
The EMG 60 is rated for intermediate to advanced players and suitable for professionals. Its solderless quick-connect wiring keeps installation straightforward, making it more approachable than traditional soldered pickups while still demanding basic familiarity with guitar electronics and wiring routing.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The EMG 60 draws only 80 microamps at 9V, yielding approximately 3000 hours of continuous use per battery—roughly four months if you play eight hours daily. Battery life varies with actual playing time and signal chain configuration.
What genres is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG 60 excels in studio sessions, live performance, metal, hard rock, and progressive music where clarity and cut-through are priorities. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk styles, which typically favor warmer, more organic humbucker voicings.
How does the EMG 60 compare to other active humbuckers like the EMG 81?
The EMG 60 delivers a more balanced and articulate character than the hotter EMG 81, with a 2.95 kHz resonant peak that emphasizes midrange clarity over raw output. It pairs well with rigs that prioritize note definition and sustain, while the 81 leans toward aggression and compression.
What finish does it come in?
The EMG 60 is available in brushed chrome, a neutral finish that integrates seamlessly into both modern and classic guitar aesthetics without standing out visually.
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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