EMG PCSX Active Bass Pickup in Red
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG6540
Description
EMG PCSX Active Bass Pickup in Red
The PCSX bridge pickup captures punchy, articulate response with aggressive clarity across the frequency spectrum. Designed as part of the FB X Series Frank Bello Signature set, this ceramic/steel magnet pickup cuts through dense mixes with tight, controlled low end and defined midrange presence—essential qualities for recording bass that sits locked in a mix without masking other instruments. The red housing pairs visual distinction with professional-grade active electronics built to deliver consistent, noise-free tracking through demanding session work.
Electrical Performance & Tone
The PCSX produces a robust 6.50V output on thump strikes and 1.75V per string, delivering the dynamic range and headroom needed to capture slap, fingerstyle, and pick technique without mud or compression artifacts during recording. Its 3.48 kHz resonant frequency centers the pickup's response in the presence peak, ensuring articulation and sustain translates clearly to tape or DAW. The X series preamp adds active tone control via VLPF (variable low-pass filter) for surgical high-frequency roll-off when shaping tone at the source, while the -101 dB noise floor keeps hum and interference completely out of the recorded signal.
Power & Reliability
Built on efficient active circuit design, the pickup draws only 80 microamps at 9V, extending battery life to a practical 3000 hours—roughly 18 months of regular use before replacement. The 2.00 kΩ output impedance and maximum 27V DC supply capability ensure stable, predictable signal delivery to your interface or preamp chain, with enough headroom for flexible studio signal conditioning and future equipment upgrades.
Key Features
- Ceramic/Steel magnet construction for defined attack and controlled sustain
- 6.50V output voltage (thump) / 1.75V per string for dynamic range
- 3.48 kHz resonant frequency centered in the presence peak
- X series preamp with active tone control (VLPF) for high-frequency shaping
- -101 dB output noise at 60 Hz for silent operation
- 2.00 kΩ output impedance
- 80 microamp current draw at 9V operation
- 3000-hour battery life on standard 9V supply
- Maximum 27V DC supply rated for extended headroom
- Red housing finish (Frank Bello Signature aesthetic)
- Active electronics with no passive compromise
The PCSX is engineered for recording sessions where articulation, low noise, and responsive active tone shaping at the source are critical to getting a professional bass tone into the mix.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG PCSX is an active bridge pickup that captures punchy, articulate bass tones with tight controlled low end and defined midrange—ideal for studio tracking in rock, metal, and funk. Its 3.48 kHz resonant frequency sits perfectly in the presence peak for clarity in dense mixes, while the X-series preamp's variable low-pass filter gives you surgical high-frequency control during mixing and layering. The -101 dB noise floor and robust 6.50V output ensure clean, dynamic recordings without hum or compression artifacts.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Funk, Rock, Metal, Studio Sessions, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Punchy articulate, tight controlled low end, defined midrange, aggressive clarity, high output |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What output level and dynamic range does the PCSX deliver?
The PCSX produces 6.50V on thump strikes and 1.75V per string, giving you the headroom and responsiveness needed for slap, fingerstyle, and pick technique without mud or compression artifacts. Its 2.00 kΩ output impedance and maximum 27V DC supply capability ensure stable signal delivery across any preamp or bass electronics setup.
How long will the battery last, and what's the noise performance?
Battery life is approximately 3000 hours—roughly 18 months of regular use—on a standard 9V supply, thanks to efficient 80 microamp current draw. The pickup maintains a -101 dB noise floor at 60 Hz, keeping hum completely out of the picture in both live and studio environments.
What tone-shaping options does the X-series preamp provide?
The active preamp includes a variable low-pass filter (VLPF) for surgical high-frequency roll-off when needed, letting you shape aggression or tame harshness without compromising the pickup's core punchy, articulate character. The 3.48 kHz resonant frequency is pre-centered in the presence peak for natural clarity and sustain.
What music styles and playing techniques is this pickup designed for?
The PCSX excels in funk, rock, and metal, handling slap, fingerstyle, and pick-driven techniques with equal precision. Its aggressive clarity and tight low end cut through dense mixes, making it less suited to jazz and folk styles that favor warmer, more traditional tones.
How does the PCSX compare to passive pickups or other active models?
The PCSX combines ceramic/steel magnet construction with active electronics for defined attack and controlled sustain without passive compromise. Comparable models include the Seymour Duncan SPB-3, Bartolini CBJD5HS, and Aguilar DCB; the PCSX stands out for its high output voltage, surgical tone control, and road-proven reliability in professional touring and studio settings.
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.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.