EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in White
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG1189
Description
EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in White
The EMG 89 captures articulate, punchy character with exceptional clarity across both dual-coil and single-coil operating modes, making it ideal for tracking sessions where tonal flexibility matters. This versatile pickup bridges the gap between high-output aggression and the definition needed for layering complex arrangements and overdubs, delivering clean signal integrity without sacrificing output or definition in the mix.
Tone & Recording Performance
Built on Alnico V magnets and precision-wound, inductively matched coils, the 89 produces distinct sonic characters depending on mode: humbucker mode captures 1.0V RMS output with a 2.55 kHz resonant frequency, while single-coil mode yields 0.6V RMS with a 3.75 kHz resonant frequency, offering brighter articulation for tracking rhythm and lead parts separately. Each mode runs through separate preamps with custom-tailored outputs, ensuring clean signal integrity at the source with minimal noise floor at -99 dBV in humbucker mode and -94 dBV in single-coil mode—critical for maintaining headroom during recording and mixing.
Installation & Studio Workflow
The dual push/pull volume and tone control system integrates seamlessly into most guitar wiring configurations, and the included Quik-Connect cable streamlines installation and future adjustments between sessions. Long battery life of approximately 3,290 hours at 152 microamps draw means no unexpected signal loss or tone shift mid-session during recording or rehearsal.
Key Features
- Dual-coil and single-coil operating modes via push/pull control
- Separate preamps providing independent outputs for each mode
- Alnico V magnet construction
- Precision-wound, resistively and inductively matched coils with vacuum sealing
- Humbucker mode: 1.0V RMS output, 3.0V peak, 2.55 kHz resonant frequency
- Single-coil mode: 0.6V RMS output, 1.7V peak, 3.75 kHz resonant frequency
- Output impedance of 10 kOhms
- Powered by 9V battery with 3,290-hour runtime at 152 microamps
- Includes Quik-Connect cable, prewired push/pull control set, output jack, and battery clip
- Product dimensions: 2.63 x 2.38 x 6 inches
The EMG 89 combines switching versatility with low noise and extended battery life, delivering the consistency needed for tracking multiple takes and maintaining tonal control across full sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 89 is a versatile dual-mode active humbucker that switches between full-output humbucker tone and brighter single-coil articulation, delivering pristine low-noise recordings across metal, progressive, and studio sessions. Its separate preamp circuits and precision-wound coils ensure clean tracking and mix-ready clarity whether you're laying down heavy rhythm or capturing intricate lead lines. The extended battery life and Quik-Connect installation make it straightforward to integrate into tracking setups, while the selectable tonal character adds studio flexibility without resorting to amp tweaking.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Progressive, Hard Rock, Extended Range, Studio Sessions |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate, punchy, high-output, low-noise, versatile dual-mode |
| Less specialized for | Blues, Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the dual-coil and single-coil modes differ tonally?
Humbucker mode delivers 1.0V RMS output with a 2.55 kHz resonant frequency for aggressive, punchy tone; single-coil mode produces 0.6V RMS at 3.75 kHz for brighter articulation and tonal definition. Both modes run through separate preamps to maintain clean signal integrity independent of each other.
What is the battery life, and how often will I need to replace it?
The 9V battery provides approximately 3,290 hours of runtime at the pickup's 152 microamp draw, translating to roughly 137 days of continuous use. For typical gigging and studio players, battery changes are infrequent.
What is included in the box, and how difficult is installation?
The EMG 89 ships with a Quik-Connect cable, prewired push/pull control set, output jack, and battery clip. The push/pull dual control system integrates into standard guitar wiring configurations, and the Quik-Connect cable simplifies both initial installation and future adjustments.
What genres and playing styles is this pickup suited for?
The 89 excels in metal, progressive, hard rock, and extended-range playing where articulation and output flexibility are essential. It is not optimized for blues, jazz, or folk styles that prioritize warmth and breakup over clarity and punch.
How does the EMG 89 compare to other high-output active pickups?
The 89 competes with models like the Seymour Duncan Nazgul, DiMarzio Dominion, and Fishman Fluence Modern. Its defining strength is the dual-mode switching capability—toggling between full humbucker aggression and single-coil clarity—without sacrificing the low noise floor and separate preamp integrity that serious tracking and live tone demand.
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. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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