EMG PCS 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
- EMG1705
Description
EMG P Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG P Active Bass Pickup captures the punchy, articulate P-bass character that sits naturally in dense mixes, now paired with the consistency and headroom of active electronics. This pickup excels at maintaining definition across the full dynamic range of recorded performances, delivering crisp attack and strong fundamental that cut through without requiring excessive EQ compensation during mixing.
Tone & Recording Performance
The ceramic magnet construction and short, squat coil configuration generate a focused midrange with crisp attack and strong fundamental. A resonant frequency of 3.20 kHz and output noise floor of -106 dB ensure articulate tracking response without hum or hiss, while selectable output modes (2.00V finger/thumb, 8.0V thump) let you capture nuanced playing dynamics or aggressive sessions with consistent gain structure across takes.
Studio Reliability & Signal Path
Engineered for extended recording sessions, this active pickup draws only 380 microamps at 9V, allowing approximately 1,000 hours of continuous use per battery. The 3 kohm output impedance and 27V DC maximum supply voltage rating provide wide compatibility with studio preamps and mixing console inputs while maintaining clean signal transmission and headroom throughout your signal chain.
Key Features
- Ceramic magnet design for focused, punchy tone
- Short, squat coil configuration
- Resonant frequency: 3.20 kHz
- Output voltage (finger/thumb): 2.00V
- Output voltage (thump): 8.0V
- Output noise (60 Hz): -106 dB
- Output impedance: 3 kohm
- Current draw @ 9V: 380 microamps
- Battery life: 1,000 hours
- Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
- Black finish with silver logo
- Dimensions: 2.63"L × 2.38"W × 6"H
The EMG P brings classic P-bass midrange character together with low-noise, high-headroom active circuitry, making it a direct upgrade for home studio and session work where consistency, articulation, and mix-ready tone matter.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG PCS Active Bass Pickup is a low-noise studio workhorse that combines the punchy, focused midrange of a vintage P-bass with the consistency and headroom of active electronics, making it ideal for cutting through dense mixes in funk, drop-tuning, and heavy sessions. Its -106 dB noise floor and selectable output modes (2.00V finger/thumb or 8.0V thump) let you shape tone to sit perfectly in your mix without hum, hiss, or dynamic compromise. Pick this if you're tracking bass in the box and want a direct upgrade that delivers articulate definition and studio-grade reliability without active-circuit complexity.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | funk, studio sessions, live performance, drop tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Punchy, articulate, focused midrange, crisp attack, strong fundamental |
| Less specialized for | traditional jazz, folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the selectable output mode mean, and how do I use it?
The pickup offers two output voltage settings: 2.00V for controlled finger or thumb playing (finesse mode) and 8.0V for aggressive thump (high-output mode). You can configure the output at install time based on your playing style and signal chain needs, allowing you to dial in the exact amount of aggression or headroom you want.
How long will a 9V battery last with this pickup?
At 380 microamps current draw, a standard 9V battery will run approximately 1,000 hours of continuous use. This translates to months of regular playing between replacements, making it a low-maintenance choice for gigging and studio work.
Is this pickup compatible with my current bass electronics and preamps?
Yes. The 3 kohm output impedance and 27V DC maximum supply voltage rating provide broad compatibility with standard bass preamps and signal chains. It integrates cleanly into most active and passive wiring schemes without modification.
What tone styles does this pickup work best for?
The EMG PCS excels in funk, studio sessions, live performance, and drop-tuning applications where a punchy, articulate midrange and crisp attack are essential. Its focused character is less suited to traditional jazz or folk genres, where rounder, warmer tones are typically preferred.
How does the ceramic magnet design affect the tone?
The ceramic magnet and short, squat coil configuration generate a focused midrange with a resonant frequency of 3.20 kHz, delivering crisp attack and strong fundamental response. This design cuts through dense mixes and maintains definition across your dynamic range without hum or hiss.
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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