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EMG 45CS 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 45CS is a 6-string bass pickup delivering aggressive slap dynamics and punchy midrange, while the EMG 60A is a guitar humbucker with warmer, more balanced tone suited to rock and metal. Choose the 45CS if you play bass and need output range for funk and slap; choose the 60A if you play guitar in rock, metal, or fusion.
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EMG 45CS 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 45CS 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black | EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 45CS 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ 6-string bass-specific design with 92mm string width compatibility
- ✓ Dynamic range from 2V to 6V output handles finger playing and aggressive thumping
- ✓ Ceramic and steel magnets deliver tight, articulate transients ideal for slap bass
- ✓ Compact soapbar form factor (114.3mm × 38.1mm) fits tight bass pickup cavities
Why choose EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Alnico magnet construction provides warm, naturally compressed tone
- ✓ 2.95 kHz resonant frequency centers vocal midrange presence without harshness
- ✓ Moderate 1.0V RMS output offers headroom for stacked gain in the signal chain
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life per 9V cell exceeds typical active pickup longevity
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup in the same instrument?
No. The 45CS is designed exclusively for 6-string bass applications with a 92mm maximum string width; the 60A is a covered humbucker sized for standard electric guitar use. They are not interchangeable.
Which pickup has longer battery life?
The EMG 60A delivers approximately 3000 hours per 9V cell, while the 45CS provides around 1000 hours at 9V, so the 60A lasts roughly three times longer under normal use.
How do output levels differ between these pickups?
The 45CS ranges from 2V (finger/thumb) to 6V (aggressive thumping) for dynamic bass playing. The 60A outputs 1V RMS with 3V peak for a more consistent, moderate level typical of balanced guitar pickups. The 45CS is built for output variability; the 60A for consistency.
Which is better for studio recording?
Both are studio-viable. The 45CS excels when bass requires articulate definition and dynamic slap transients; the 60A suits guitar work needing warm, naturally compressed tone with vocal midrange presence and low noise (-89 dBV).