EMG1405 vs EMG165 — Compare
EMG SAV Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG SJ Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG SAV is a guitar pickup for rock, pop, and indie players seeking bright single-coil clarity with active low-noise benefits, while the EMG SJ is a bass pickup for funk and jazz players who need articulate midrange and controlled lows in a compact neck-position form. They serve completely different instruments and genres.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| EMG SAV Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG SJ Active Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SAV Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Fits multiple positions (bridge, middle, neck) on 6-string guitars
- ✓ Bright 4.41 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes string articulation and snap
- ✓ Solderless Quik-connect installation for fast setup
- ✓ Low output integrates with vintage and modern amp rigs
Why choose EMG SJ Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Extremely long battery life (3,000 hours per 9V cell) due to 80 microamp draw
- ✓ Compact 18.54mm width fits tight bass body routing
- ✓ Complete wired system ships with potentiometers, jacks, and all cables included
- ✓ Articulate midrange and controlled low-end tailored for funk and jazz
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these pickups interchangeably?
No. The EMG SAV is designed for six-string guitars in multiple positions, while the EMG SJ is engineered specifically for four-string bass neck position. They operate on different instruments with different magnet types and output characteristics.
Which pickup is better for beginners?
The EMG SAV supports beginner through professional skill levels and works across multiple guitar positions, making it more versatile for learning. The EMG SJ requires intermediate to professional bass experience and is neck-position specific.
What's the main battery-life advantage of the SJ?
The EMG SJ draws only 80 microamps at 9V, delivering approximately 3,000 hours of battery life per cell. The SAV uses low current draw but specific battery life is not specified in the documentation.
Does the SJ come fully wired and ready to install?
Yes, the EMG SJ ships as a complete system with onboard electronics including dual 25K potentiometers, stereo output jack, battery bus, and all necessary cabling and mounting hardware. The SAV includes a wiring harness and battery clip but requires additional amp and instrument wiring.