EMG Fat 55 Bridge Retro Active Humbucker Pickup in Zebra
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG5840
Description
EMG Fat 55 Bridge Retro Active Humbucker Pickup in Zebra
The EMG Fat 55 bridge pickup captures aggressive, focused transients characteristic of modern active electronics while preserving the harmonic complexity that reads well in dense mixes. This Alnico 5 retro-active humbucker operates in the sweet spot between vintage character and contemporary articulation, tracking heavy riff work with precision while maintaining clarity on lead passes and layered arrangements.
Tone & Output Performance
A 2.8 kHz resonant frequency paired with 4.0V nominal output and 8.0V max strum voltage positions this pickup to deliver definition without muddying the low-mid range. The -102 dB noise floor ensures transparent signal transmission even under high-gain tracking conditions, while 3.1 Kohm output impedance integrates cleanly with standard audio interfaces, preamps, and mixing chains.
Build & Installation
Engineered as an open coil humbucker with stainless steel components, the Fat 55 withstands the demands of frequent studio use and equipment changes. Installation accelerates session setup through EMG's solderless system with exclusive connectors, eliminating time spent on traditional wiring. The bridge pickup operates on a single 9V battery shared across a two-pickup set, delivering 715 hours of battery life at 350 microamps draw and supporting up to 27V DC maximum supply for stacked or modified configurations.
Key Features
- Magnet Type: Alnico 5
- Configuration: Open coil humbucker
- Resonant Frequency: 2.8 kHz
- Output Voltage (nominal): 4.0V
- Output Voltage (max strum): 8.0V
- Output Noise: -102 dB at 60 Hz
- Output Impedance: 3.1 Kohm
- Active Preamp: 9V battery-powered
- Battery Life: 715 hours per set
- Current Draw: 350 microamps at 9V
- Material: Stainless steel construction
- Installation: EMG solderless system with exclusive connectors
The Fat 55 bridge pickup combines retro-active responsiveness with the signal integrity and noise rejection required for professional recording and production workflows.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The Fat 55 bridge pickup sits in the sweet spot between retro character and contemporary aggression, offering 4.0V nominal output with exceptional 2.8 kHz resonant clarity that translates to focused, punchy recordings in heavy genres. Its -102 dB noise floor keeps studio recordings clean even under high-gain compression and layering, while harmonic complexity ensures character without brittleness in the mix. Solderless installation and long battery life streamline your session workflow.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Drop Tunings, Studio Sessions, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Aggressive attack, focused midrange, high output, low noise floor, harmonic complexity |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Folk, Country (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and tunings is the Fat 55 designed for?
The Fat 55 excels in metal, hard rock, and drop-tuning applications. It is not optimized for jazz, folk, or country styles. Its aggressive midrange and high output make it ideal for high-gain rhythm work and cutting lead tones in dense band mixes.
How does the Fat 55 compare to other high-output bridge pickups?
The Fat 55 sits between passive and active designs—it combines the harmonic complexity of a passive pickup with the noise rejection and punch of active electronics. Comparable models include the Seymour Duncan JB, DiMarzio Crunch Lab, and EMG 81, though the Fat 55's 2.8 kHz resonance and Alnico 5 magnet offer a warmer, more defined midrange than the brighter 81.
How long does the battery last, and what's involved in installation?
A single 9V battery powers two pickups for 715 hours of continuous use. EMG's solderless system with exclusive connectors eliminates traditional wiring and solder work—simply plug the pickup in and connect the battery, making installation straightforward for intermediate to professional players.
What is the noise floor, and will it work with high-gain settings?
The Fat 55 has a -102 dB noise floor at 60 Hz, ensuring clean signal transmission even at extreme gain levels. Combined with 3.1 Kohm output impedance, it integrates seamlessly with standard guitar electronics and amplifier inputs without hum or unwanted noise.
What are the specifications for output and power?
The Fat 55 delivers 4.0V nominal output, peaks at 8.0V on hard strum, and operates on a 9V battery with 350 microamps current draw. It supports up to 27V DC maximum supply for stacked or modified configurations, offering flexibility for custom builds.
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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