How does the EMG 60 compare to hotter EMG models like the 81 or 85?

The EMG 60 offers moderate output (3.5V strummed) and a more balanced tonal signature without the midrange coloration or aggressive character of hotter models. It's designed to sit well in a mix and drive tube amps cleanly, making it ideal for players who want EMG's active clarity without overwhelming output or noise.

How long does the battery last, and what does solderless connectivity mean?

The 9V battery lasts approximately 3,000 hours—roughly four months of daily use—thanks to a low 80 microamp draw. Solderless 2-wire connectivity means no soldering required during installation; you simply snap the wires into place, speeding up the swap considerably.

What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?

The EMG 60 excels in rock, metal, and fusion contexts where articulation and controlled response matter in rhythm and lead work. It is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk styles, which typically benefit from warmer, more organic pickup characteristics.

Is this a long-shaft pickup, and how does that affect installation?

Yes, the long shaft variant accommodates guitars with deeper cavities or non-standard wiring depths. Confirm your guitar's cavity depth and shaft length before ordering; long-shaft pickups cannot be shortened and may not fit standard shallow cavities.

What output levels should I expect, and will it work with my tube amp?

Single-string output is 1.25V; strummed chords deliver 3.5V—enough gain to drive most tube amps without excessive distortion from the pickup itself. The moderate output and controlled midrange let your amp's natural breakup shine through rather than overwhelming it.

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.

EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

The EMG 60 is a workhorse active humbucker prized for its tight, articulate response and controlled output in the studio and live rig. This covered model in brushed black chrome delivers the signature EMG clarity without excessive aggression, making it equally effective for tracking rhythm and lead parts across rock, metal, and fusion sessions.

Recording Tone & Mix Placement

With a 2.95kHz resonant frequency and moderate ceramic magnet construction, the EMG 60 produces a balanced tonal signature that sits naturally in dense mixes. Output measures 1.25V on single strings and 3.5V on strummed chords, delivering enough gain to drive preamps and interfaces cleanly without the midrange coloration of hotter EMG models, keeping your recordings transparent and punchy.

Active Electronics & Session Reliability

This pickup runs on standard 9V battery power, drawing only 80 microamps for exceptional battery life of 3,000 hours—roughly four months of continuous studio sessions. The solderless connectivity enables fast wiring during instrument prep, and the design supports maximum 27V DC for engineers running stacked supplies or higher-voltage rigs.

Key Features

Type: Active Humbucker
Magnet Material: Ceramic
DC Resistance: 10K ohms
Resonant Frequency: 2.95kHz
Output Voltage (Single String): 1.25V
Output Voltage (Strummed): 3.5V
Output Noise @ 60Hz: -89dBV
Output Impedance: 10kOhms
Current Draw @ 9V: 80 microamps
Battery Life: 3,000 hours
Maximum Supply: 27V DC
Connectivity: Solderless 2-wire plus battery
Covering: Covered
Finish: Brushed Black Chrome

The EMG 60 remains a proven choice for producers and engineers seeking clean articulation and reliable active tone without overwrought output or noise floors that compromise recording clarity.