EMG HB Active Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG57
Description
EMG HB Active Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG HB combines the aggressive presence of a guitar humbucker with the focused low-end authority of a P-style bass pickup, delivering a hybrid character that cuts through dense mixes. Its compact 69.8mm × 38.1mm footprint integrates cleanly into most bass configurations, while the active preamp architecture ensures consistent output with minimal noise floor—critical for capturing clarity and definition in multitrack sessions and maintaining punch across a spectrum of production styles.
Active Electronics & Power
This pickup runs on a single 9-volt battery with exceptionally efficient current draw of just 80 microamps, yielding approximately 3000 hours of battery life between changes. The -106 dB output noise floor at 60 Hz means hum and electromagnetic interference remain inaudible—a critical advantage when stacking tracks in the studio or recording in proximity to amp rigs and other gear, while the 10 kohm output impedance maintains tight interfacing with standard bass electronics and preamp chains.
Tone & Tracking in the Mix
The ceramic/steel blended magnet and split-coil P-style construction generate a 2.00V string response and 4.50V strum peak, anchoring the tone in the midrange while preserving articulate treble detail that registers clearly on playback. A 3.20 KHz resonant frequency positions the pickup's presence peak in the critical vocal and articulation zone, ensuring the bass remains defined and focused whether tracking slap, fingerstyle, or pick techniques—each with distinct character intact in the mix.
Key Features
- P-style bass pickup in guitar humbucking housing
- Active pickup with internal preamp for noise reduction
- Ceramic/steel blended magnet
- Split-coil P-style construction design
- Dimensions: 69.8mm (2.75") length × 38.1mm (1.50") width
- Maximum recommended string width: 53.34mm (2.10")
- Powered by 9-volt battery; 80 microamps current draw
- Battery life: approximately 3000 hours
- Output voltage: 2.00V (string), 4.50V (strum)
- Output noise: -106 dB at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 kohm
- Maximum supply: 27 volts DC; wired to 25k pots
The EMG HB delivers professional-grade active tone with the reliability and low-maintenance operation active pickups are known for, making it a solid choice for studios and sessions demanding defined articulation, silent operation, and consistent results across production needs.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG HB active pickup combines the aggressive presence of a humbucker with focused low-end authority, producing a 3.20 kHz presence peak that sits vocals and articulation front-and-center in dense mixes. Its ceramic/steel blend and split-coil P-style construction yield 2.00V string response and 4.50V strum peaks with a -106 dB noise floor, making it ideal for recording sessions where clarity and hum-free operation matter. Studio owners and producers will appreciate its efficient 9-volt power (3000-hour battery life) and tight 10 kohm output impedance for seamless integration into any signal chain.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Funk, Studio Sessions, Live Performance, Gigging |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Aggressive presence, focused low end, articulate treble, tight midrange, silent operation |
| Less specialized for | Folk, Worship (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG HB excels in funk, studio sessions, and live gigging. Its aggressive presence and articulate treble work equally well for slap, fingerstyle, or pick playing, though it is not recommended for folk or worship music.
How long does the 9-volt battery last?
The battery provides approximately 3000 hours of playing time between changes, thanks to its exceptionally efficient 80 microamp current draw.
Will this pickup fit my bass, and what is the noise floor like?
The pickup measures 69.8mm × 38.1mm and accommodates string widths up to 53.34mm, integrating cleanly into most bass configurations. Its -106 dB output noise floor at 60 Hz keeps hum and electromagnetic interference inaudible even in heavily shielded venues.
What output voltage should I expect?
The EMG HB delivers 2.00V string response and 4.50V strum peak, with a 10 kohm output impedance that maintains tight interfacing with standard bass electronics and mixing gear.
How does this compare to passive bass pickups?
As an active pickup, the EMG HB provides consistent, noise-free output with a dedicated internal preamp, whereas passive pickups rely on the bass's onboard electronics and are more prone to hum. Active architecture delivers the silent, defined operation this pickup is known for.
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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