EMG P5A 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Red
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG6520
Description
EMG P5A 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Red
The EMG P5A delivers the clarity and punch expected from EMG's active pickup platform, engineered specifically for five-string bass applications. This red-finished unit combines a split-coil precision design with Alnico V magnets to produce articulate lows and defined mids across the entire frequency spectrum. Built on EMG's solderless wiring system, installation and integration into existing electronics is straightforward and reliable, minimizing downtime between tracking sessions.
Electronics & Power Characteristics
Rated at 10 Kohm output impedance with minimal current draw of 80 microamps at 9V, the P5A operates efficiently with extended battery life of approximately 3000 hours—ideal for extended studio sessions and touring without mid-session interruptions. The pickup tolerates supply voltages up to 27 volts DC, offering flexibility in circuit design and future upgrades without requiring component replacement.
Recording & Mix Integration
The 3.20 kHz resonant frequency positions the P5A's peak response in the upper-midrange, enhancing note definition and articulation for precision tracking and tight pocket playing. Output voltage reaches 4.50V on thump mode and 1.00V on string mode, with noise performance of -99 dBV at 60 Hz, ensuring clean, quiet recording passes without hum interference or ground noise complications.
Key Features
- Split-coil precision design with Alnico V magnets
- Engineered for five-string bass instruments
- 10 Kohm output impedance
- 80 microamps current draw at 9V
- 3000-hour battery life
- Maximum supply voltage: 27 volts DC
- 3.20 kHz resonant frequency
- Output noise: -99 dBV (60 Hz)
- Includes 25K volume and 25K tone potentiometers
- Solderless wiring installation system
- Complete component set: battery bus, stereo jack, mounting screws, cables
- Red finish
The P5A combines EMG's proven active electronics with a compact form factor and user-friendly installation to deliver consistent, noise-free performance for five-string bass tracking in any home studio or professional environment.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG P5A is a professional-grade active pickup designed to capture tight, articulate bass tones with exceptional midrange definition and minimal noise—ideal for recording funk, modern rock, and studio sessions where each note needs to sit clearly in the mix. Its 3.20 kHz resonant peak and -99 dBV noise floor ensure clean tracking and layering, while the included potentiometers and solderless wiring make integration into your session bass quick and reliable. Choose this if you need a plug-and-play upgrade that brings clarity and punch to five-string bass recordings without complicated soldering or extensive downtime.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | funk, modern bass, studio sessions, live performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate lows, defined mids, punchy, noise-free, upper-midrange peak |
| Less specialized for | traditional jazz, upright bass applications (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What five-string bass models is the P5A compatible with?
The P5A is engineered specifically for five-string bass instruments with standard pickup routing. It includes mounting screws and a complete component set for installation; verify your bass's pickup cavity dimensions match a standard P-style five-string format before purchasing.
How long does the battery last, and what's the power draw?
The P5A draws only 80 microamps at 9V and delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life on a standard 9V battery. It can also tolerate supply voltages up to 27 volts DC if you choose a larger power solution.
How easy is installation compared to traditional pickups?
EMG's solderless wiring system makes installation straightforward—no soldering required. The pickup includes a stereo jack, battery bus, cables, and mounting screws; you'll simply route the wiring into your bass cavity and integrate it with your existing electronics.
What's the tone character, and is it suitable for traditional jazz?
The P5A is voiced for modern bass styles: articulate lows, defined mids, and a punchy upper-midrange peak at 3.20 kHz that emphasizes note definition and clarity. It is not optimized for traditional jazz playing, which typically benefits from warmer, more rounded tone profiles.
How quiet is this pickup, and will it pick up hum or buzz?
The P5A delivers -99 dBV noise performance at 60 Hz, ensuring clean, interference-free operation in both live and studio environments. The active electronics and shielding design minimize hum and buzz common in passive setups.
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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