EMG Fat 55 Neck 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
- EMG5838
Description
EMG Fat 55 Neck Retro Active Humbucker Pickup in Zebra
The EMG Fat 55 neck pickup delivers articulate, balanced response with enough presence to sit clearly in a mix without sacrificing dynamic detail. The open-coil humbucker design and Alnico 2 magnet in the neck position work together to produce natural harmonic complexity, making this an excellent choice for producers and engineers seeking active electronics with retro character and sustain for recording sessions.
Recording & Tone Characteristics
This neck pickup generates a 4.50V string output and 8.0V maximum strum output with a 3.0 kHz resonant frequency, positioning it in the sweet spot for articulate lead work and responsive rhythm tones that capture well on tape and in DAW. The -106 dB output noise floor ensures clean amplification with minimal hum, critical for capturing pristine recordings without noise gating or additional processing.
Electronics & Studio Integration
The EMG solderless installation system with short shaft potentiometers (9.9 mm) enables fast, non-invasive retrofitting into existing instruments; paired 25k volume and tone controls deliver full tonal range with minimal noise for precise session control. Active operation at 9V DC draws 350 microamps and provides approximately 715 hours of battery life per cell, with support up to 27V DC maximum supply for extended headroom and studio flexibility.
Key Features
- Alnico 2 magnet; open-coil humbucker configuration
- 4.50V string output; 8.0V maximum strum output
- 3.0 kHz resonant frequency
- -106 dB output noise (60 Hz)
- 3.1 kΩ output impedance
- EMG solderless installation system
- Short shaft 25k volume potentiometer (9.9 mm)
- Short shaft 25k tone potentiometer (9.9 mm)
- Active operation at 9V DC; 350 microamps current draw
- Approximately 715 hours battery life
- Maximum supply 27V DC
- Stainless steel construction; zebra finish
The Fat 55 neck combines classic tonal character with modern active-circuit reliability, making it ideal for producers upgrading a single position or engineering hybrid setups for versatile recording applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG Fat 55 Neck is an active humbucker engineered to sit cleanly in a mix with articulate dynamics and warm sustain, backed by a -106 dB noise floor that keeps recording sessions hum-free. Its 4.50V string output and 3.0 kHz resonant frequency deliver responsive, balanced tone ideal for layering lead and rhythm parts in rock and metal productions. Drop it into your neck position for a versatile, low-maintenance workhorse that captures natural harmonic detail without coloration.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Rock, Metal, Hard Rock, Studio Sessions, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate, balanced, natural harmonic complexity, warm sustain, cut-through presence |
| Less specialized for | 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 Fat 55 and EMG's 81 pickup?
The Fat 55 is voiced for neck position with warmer, more balanced articulation and natural harmonic complexity using an Alnico 2 magnet, while the 81 is a bridge-position powerhouse with higher output and more aggressive presence. Both are active circuits; choose the Fat 55 for responsive, nuanced tone in the neck and the 81 for hard-hitting lead attack in the bridge.
How long does the battery last, and how do I know when it's dying?
Each 9V battery provides approximately 715 hours of playing time at 350 microamps current draw, roughly 3–4 weeks of daily use. As the battery weakens, you'll notice reduced output and increased noise; it's good practice to keep a spare 9V on hand for gigs and sessions.
Is this pickup easy to install in my existing guitar?
Yes—the EMG solderless installation system requires no soldering, and the short-shaft potentiometers (9.9 mm) fit most standard guitars. If your guitar already has EMG electronics or compatible wiring cavities, installation is straightforward; otherwise, you may need to route or adapt the cavity slightly.
Will this work well paired with a bridge pickup from another brand?
The Fat 55's balanced, articulate character pairs well with many bridge pickups, including Seymour Duncan and DiMarzio models. Since it's active and outputs 4.50V string level, matching it with a similarly output-level bridge pickup will maintain consistent volume and tone between positions; test for impedance compatibility with your chosen bridge model.
What genres is this pickup best suited for?
The Fat 55 excels in rock, metal, and hard rock—both live and in the studio. Its articulate, warm sustain and natural harmonic complexity make it less ideal for jazz or folk, where traditional passive pickups are typically preferred.
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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