EMG 66 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4310
Description
EMG 66 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG 66 delivers the clarity and articulation that active electronics bring to humbucker-voiced pickups, with a balanced output suitable for both clean and high-gain tracking. Its Alnico V magnet and steel pole pieces produce definition without sacrificing warmth, making it a versatile choice for home-studio setups that demand consistency across different playing dynamics and recording sessions.
Tone & Output Characteristics
A resonant frequency of 1.61 kHz keeps the midrange present and articulate in the mix. The pickup generates 3 V output on single strings and 4.5 V when strummed, providing enough headroom to drive interface preamps and mixing console inputs without unnecessary compression, while the -100 dB noise floor at 60 Hz ensures clean operation even with extended cable runs in the recording chain.
Electronics & Power Management
This active design runs on a single 9V battery with an exceptional 1500-hour battery life per set, minimizing maintenance downtime between recording sessions. The 10 KOhm output impedance and 10K Ohm DC resistance maintain signal integrity through the signal path, while the solderless connectivity streamlines installation and future modifications for evolving production needs.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet for warm, defined tone
- Chrome finish with stainless steel housing
- Steel pole pieces for focused articulation
- Active electronics with 1x 9V battery power requirement
- 1500-hour battery life per set
- 3 V single-string output / 4.5 V strum output
- -100 dB noise floor at 60 Hz
- 10 KOhm output impedance
- 10K Ohms DC resistance
- Solderless 2-wire-plus-battery connectivity
- 1.61 kHz resonant frequency
- Maximum 27 V DC supply rating
The EMG 66 pairs active headroom with traditional humbucker balance, making it a reliable choice for home-studio recordings and multi-genre session work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 66 active humbucker excels in studio tracking and mixing thanks to its articulate midrange presence, warm definition, and clean noise floor that cuts through without harshness in a mix. With 3-4.5 V output headroom and a resonant peak at 1.61 kHz, it captures definition on both single-note passages and full strums, translating well across hard rock and metal sessions where consistency matters. The 1500-hour battery life and low-noise floor mean extended studio days without signal degradation or maintenance interruptions.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Studio Sessions, Live Performance, Hard Rock, Metal |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate midrange, warm definition, high output headroom, low noise floor, balanced clean to high-gain |
| Less specialized for | Traditional Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the EMG 66 and the EMG 81/85?
The EMG 66 uses an Alnico V magnet and delivers a warmer, more balanced tone suitable for both clean and high-gain work, while the 81 is brighter and higher-output, and the 85 sits between them. The 66's 3-4.5 V output and 1.61 kHz resonant frequency keep midrange articulate without sacrificing warmth, making it more versatile across genres than the brighter 81.
How long does the battery last, and is it easy to swap?
The 9V battery lasts approximately 1500 hours per set under regular use. The solderless 2-wire-plus-battery connectivity makes battery changes quick and straightforward without requiring a soldering iron.
Will this pickup work in a noisy venue or long cable run?
Yes. The -100 dB noise floor at 60 Hz and 10 KOhm output impedance ensure clean operation even with extended cable runs and high-noise environments typical of live stages and touring.
Is the EMG 66 suitable for jazz or traditional styles?
The EMG 66 is optimized for hard rock and metal applications and is not recommended for traditional jazz or folk genres, where warmer, less articulate pickups are generally preferred.
What output level should I expect compared to passive pickups?
The EMG 66 produces 3 V on single strings and 4.5 V on strums, delivering active headroom that drives amp input stages without unnecessary compression, offering more usable output than most passive humbuckers at comparable price points.
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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