EMG P5A 5-String Active 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
- EMG5417
Description
EMG P5A 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG P5A captures the articulate, punchy character essential for modern bass recording and production on five-string instruments. Built around Alnico V magnets, this active pickup offers refined clarity and definition across the frequency spectrum—ideal for cutting through dense mixes and maintaining note definition during heavy playing. The integrated preamp delivers consistent gain staging and tonal flexibility for varied session work, from tight funk grooves to aggressive rock and contemporary genres.
Active Electronics & Signal Path
This active design includes an integrated 25K volume potentiometer and 25K tone potentiometer, providing direct control over output level and high-end character without requiring external modules. The system runs on a standard 9V battery and ships with a complete wiring harness: battery bus, stereo output jack, pickup cable, two connect cables, output cable, and battery cable—everything needed for installation and quick integration into your recording setup.
Tonal Character & Studio Performance
The Alnico V magnet configuration yields a warm, well-defined tone with natural sustain that sits cleanly in stereo mixes and maintains clarity under compression. Two pairs of mounting screws ensure secure, stable installation in five-string bass cavities, and the black finish integrates seamlessly into most instruments without visual compromise.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet type for warm, articulate tone
- Active pickup design with integrated preamp controls
- 25K volume potentiometer
- 25K tone potentiometer
- Designed for five-string bass instruments
- 9V battery operation
- Includes stereo output jack and complete wiring harness
- Two pairs of mounting screws for secure installation
- Black finish
- Pickup cable, battery bus, connect cables, output cable, and battery cable included
The P5A combines EMG's proven active circuitry with Alnico V sensitivity, delivering the articulate response and straightforward tonal control needed for consistent five-string bass recordings across multiple session styles and production contexts.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG P5A active pickup transforms a 5-string bass into a studio-ready instrument with articulate, well-defined tone and integrated preamp control for shaping your sound during tracking and mix prep. Alnico V magnets deliver clarity and natural sustain that sit well in dense arrangements, while the included wiring harness and straightforward potentiometer controls streamline setup and session workflow. Ideal for producers and engineers working with intermediate-to-advanced players who need a modern, punchy pickup that records with definition and versatility.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Studio Sessions, Live Performance, Funk, Progressive |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate, punchy, warm, well-defined, clear |
| Less specialized for | Folk, Country (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What comes in the box?
The EMG P5A includes the pickup itself, a complete wiring harness with stereo output jack, battery bus, pickup cable, two connect cables, output cable, battery cable, and two pairs of mounting screws for 5-string bass installation.
Is this pickup good for funk and progressive styles?
Yes. The articulate, punchy character and clarity of the Alnico V design make it well-suited for funk and progressive music, where definition and responsive attack are essential.
How does the active design work?
The pickup includes integrated 25K volume and 25K tone potentiometers, giving you direct control over output level and high-end character via onboard controls. It runs on a standard 9V battery.
What's the difference between Alnico V and ceramic magnets?
Alnico V provides a warmer, more refined tone with natural sustain and definition compared to ceramic designs, which tend to be brighter and more aggressive.
Will this fit my 5-string bass?
The P5A is engineered specifically for five-string bass instruments and includes two pairs of mounting screws for secure installation in standard 5-string cavities. Check your bass cavity dimensions against EMG's specs to confirm fit.
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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