EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4442
Description
EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 89 delivers a distinctive hybrid character that bridges single-coil articulation with humbucker body and output. This active pickup pairs aggressive midrange presence with controlled dynamics, making it capture clarity within high-gain tracking contexts without sacrificing note definition. The gold cover adds visual distinction while the solderless connection system simplifies installation and quick swaps between sessions.
Tone & Recording Character
Built around an AlNiCo 5 magnet, the 89 produces medium output with the hybrid character that EMG engineered specifically for bridge positions seeking balance between punch and articulation in the mix. The active electronics require a 9V battery (approximately 3000 hours of battery life) and integrate seamlessly into most wiring schemes via the included solderless connectors and audio bus architecture, allowing predictable gain staging during recording sessions.
Studio Integration & Compatibility
The 78.5 mm mounting screw distance and 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm dimensions ensure compatibility with standard humbucker cavities across most electric guitars used in production work. Solderless design eliminates traditional wiring complexity between sessions, and the package includes everything needed for seamless studio use: pickup cable, connecting cables, output cable, battery cable, mounting hardware, and a 25k tone pot plus push/pull pot for immediate tracking capability.
Key Features
- Active hybrid humbucker and single-coil design
- AlNiCo 5 magnet
- Medium output level
- Solderless connections for easy installation
- Gold cover finish
- Made in USA
- 78.5 mm mounting screw distance
- Dimensions: 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm (width × height × installation depth)
- Includes 25k Tone pot and 25k Push/Pull Pot
- Complete cable and connectivity package (pickup, connecting, output, and battery cables)
- Battery bus and stereo output socket included
- Two Pickup In/Out Bus connectors
The EMG 89 combines precision engineering with user-friendly installation, delivering articulate active tone in a format that respects both tracking demands and practical studio workflow.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 89 is a versatile active humbucker that sits confidently in heavy-hitting productions, offering hybrid single-coil articulation with humbucker body and medium output for clarity in aggressive mixes. Its controlled dynamics and AlNiCo 5 magnet help densely layered guitars remain defined and punchy during overdubs and tracking. Solderless design and included tone controls mean quick setup and seamless integration into any session.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ High-gain contexts
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the EMG 89 different from the EMG 81 or 85?
The 89 is engineered as a hybrid, pairing single-coil articulation with humbucker body and medium output. Unlike the 81's hotter output or the 85's versatility, the 89 specifically targets bridge positions where you need clarity and note definition without sacrificing punch in high-gain contexts.
Does this pickup require soldering, or can I install it myself?
No soldering required. The EMG 89 uses solderless connectors and includes all cables (pickup, connecting, output, and battery) plus mounting hardware and tone pots, so you can complete installation without traditional wiring.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The battery provides approximately 3000 hours of battery life, which typically translates to several months of regular playing before replacement is needed.
Will this pickup fit my guitar?
The EMG 89 has a 78.5 mm mounting screw distance and dimensions of 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm, making it compatible with standard humbucker cavities on most electric guitars. Verify your guitar's cavity dimensions and screw spacing before purchase.
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG 89 excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive contexts where aggressive midrange and note clarity are essential. It is not recommended for traditional jazz or folk styles, where different tonal characteristics are preferred.
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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