EMG 89 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG6206
Description
EMG 89 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 89 is a versatile active humbucker that captures dual-mode flexibility in one installation, eliminating the need for pickup swaps between sessions. Its brushed chrome finish integrates seamlessly into modern and classic studio setups, while the long-shaft potentiometer design accommodates thicker guitar bodies and custom builds. This pickup excels in both high-output and articulate single-coil voicings, making it ideal for tracking and mixing work that demands tonal range without repatching.
Dual-Mode Versatility & Studio Output Control
Switch between a stacked Alnico V single-coil mode (1.00V output) and a full dual-coil mode (2.00V output) via the included push/pull potentiometer, allowing flexible recording takes and mix layers from a single track. The separate outputs preserve the character of each configuration—use single-coil mode for clarity and articulation during rhythm passes, or engage dual-coil for a thicker, EMG-85-like response on lead overdubs. An output impedance of 10 kohm and noise floor of -107 dB (single-coil) / -109 dB (dual-coil) ensure clean signal transmission with minimal hum, critical for layered production work.
Efficient Power & Streamlined Session Workflow
The active circuitry draws only 160 microamps at 9V, delivering approximately 1500 hours of battery life from a single 9V cell—eliminating mid-session battery anxiety during tracking days. Solderless connections and a complete wiring harness—including stereo output jack, 25k tone and push/pull potentiometers, battery bus, mounting hardware, and cartridge cable—enable quick instrument prep and reliable setup repeatability. Maximum supply rating of 27V DC accommodates multi-battery setups for extended recording sessions.
Key Features
- Dual-mode operation: stacked Alnico V single-coil and dual-coil configurations with separate outputs
- Dimensions: 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm with 78.5 mm fixing screw distance
- 18.7 mm long-shaft potentiometer design for thicker bodies and custom installations
- Alnico V magnet construction in both single-coil and dual-coil modes
- Output voltage: 1.00V single-coil / 2.00V dual-coil
- Output impedance: 10 kohm
- Noise floor: -107 dB single-coil / -109 dB dual-coil at 60 Hz
- Active circuit: 160 µA draw at 9V, ~1500 hours battery life, 27V DC maximum supply
- Solderless connectors with 25k tone potentiometer and 25k push/pull potentiometer included
- Complete hardware package: battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting screws, springs, and cartridge cable
- 3/48 standard mounting holes
- Made in USA; brushed chrome finish
The EMG 89 combines American manufacturing, low-noise active electronics, and genuine tonal flexibility in a single chassis—delivering professional tracking and mixing results across both clean and driven recording contexts.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 89 gives recording engineers and producers two distinct tonal characters in one pickup: a stacked single-coil mode for clean articulation and transparency, and a dual-coil mode for thickness and sustain, switchable via push/pull control. Its -107 dB noise floor and low 160 µA current draw make it ideal for layer-heavy sessions and multi-take overdubs without hum. Install it once, explore multiple textures in the mix, and keep battery life stretching across long studio days.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Studio Sessions, Home Recording, Live Performance, Extended Range |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, articulate cleans, low noise, versatile, dual-mode character |
| Less specialized for | Practice, Budget-conscious beginners (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 single-coil and dual-coil mode on the EMG 89?
Single-coil mode uses a stacked Alnico V configuration with 1.00V output for bright, articulate cleans with minimal noise. Dual-coil mode engages the full humbucker for 2.00V output and a thicker, EMG-85-like response. Toggle between them via the included push/pull potentiometer without swapping pickups.
How long will the battery last?
The active circuit draws only 160 microamps at 9V, providing approximately 1500 hours of battery life per 9V cell. You can also wire multiple batteries in series for up to 27V DC supply if you need extended sessions without battery changes.
What's included in the box, and is soldering required?
The EMG 89 ships with a complete solderless wiring harness, stereo output jack, 25k tone and push/pull potentiometers, battery bus, mounting hardware, and cartridge cable. No soldering needed—just connect and install.
Will this fit my guitar, and what does 'long-shaft' mean?
The long-shaft design (18.7 mm) accommodates thicker guitar bodies and custom builds where standard potentiometers won't reach through the control cavity. Dimensions are 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm with standard 3/48 mounting holes.
How does the EMG 89 compare to the EMG 85 or Seymour Duncan JB Jr?
The 89 offers dual-mode flexibility the 85 doesn't—switch between single-coil clarity and dual-coil thickness. It delivers lower noise than most passive alternatives and shares the JB Jr's mid-range punch but with active electronics and switchable voicing for more tonal range.
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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