EMG HB Active Humbucker Bass Pickup in Ivory
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG1209
Description
EMG HB Active Humbucker Bass Pickup in Ivory
The EMG HB captures tight, articulate low end with the clarity and punch expected from an active humbucker design. Its split-coil construction eliminates hum while maintaining the full-bodied presence that defines modern bass tone in the mix. This pickup excels in sessions demanding clean articulation across aggressive playing styles and high-output tracking applications.
Tone & Electronics
Built around a ceramic/steel blended magnet with an internal active preamp powered by a 9V battery, the HB produces a controlled output of 2.00V on string and 4.50V on strum, with exceptionally low noise at -106 dBV. The 3.20 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes the midrange and attack, ideal for slap, fingerstyle, and pick-driven bass work—translating well to all mix contexts from heavy reduction to full presence.
Design & Build
The pickup measures 69.8mm (2.75") in length and 38.1mm (1.50") in width, fitting standard bass positions with a maximum recommended string width of 53.34mm (2.10"). Non-removable epoxy-cast covers provide durability and a refined appearance in ivory, while the 10 kΩ output impedance ensures solid signal integrity into any preamp or audio interface input for reliable tracking and monitoring.
Key Features
- Ceramic/Steel blended magnet
- Split-coil hum-cancelling construction
- Internal active preamp
- Output Voltage: 2.00V (string) / 4.50V (strum)
- Output Noise: -106 dBV
- Resonant Frequency: 3.20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 10 kΩ
- Powered by 9V battery (80 microamps draw, 3000-hour battery life)
- Length: 69.8mm (2.75")
- Width: 38.1mm (1.50")
- Maximum String Width: 53.34mm (2.10")
- Non-removable epoxy-cast covers
The EMG HB combines proven active electronics with a versatile voicing that tracks cleanly across fretless, five-string, and modern four-string session work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG HB is an active humbucker bass pickup engineered for modern recording sessions where articulation, low-end control, and hum-free operation are non-negotiable. Its ceramic/steel magnet and split-coil construction produce a tight, punchy tone with midrange emphasis that records cleanly and sits naturally in dense mixes without muddiness or noise floor creep. Studio players tracking funk, slap, or pick-driven bass will appreciate the 2.00V string output paired with exceptional noise rejection, making it a reliable workhorse for multiple takes and tracking styles.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Slap Bass
- ✓ Pick-Driven Bass
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Vintage Tone Purists
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What playing styles does this pickup work best for?
The EMG HB excels in funk, slap bass, pick-driven styles, and studio sessions where tight articulation and high output matter most. Its 3.20 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes midrange attack, making it less suited for traditional jazz or vintage tone aesthetics.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The internal 9V battery draws only 80 microamps and provides approximately 3000 hours of playing time, which typically translates to 1–2 years depending on daily use.
Will this pickup fit my bass?
The HB measures 69.8mm in length and 38.1mm in width, fitting standard bass pickup positions with a maximum recommended string width of 53.34mm. Verify your bass mounting dimensions before purchase.
What makes this an active pickup, and what are the benefits?
The HB includes an internal active preamp powered by a 9V battery, which boosts output to 2.00V on string and 4.50V on strum while maintaining exceptionally low noise at -106 dBV. Active design ensures cleaner signal integrity into any preamp or amp input.
Does the split-coil construction really eliminate hum?
Yes—split-coil design cancels hum interference while the active preamp maintains full-bodied presence and clarity. The result is a hum-free tone suitable for live and studio work.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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