EMG177 vs EMG2982 — Compare

EMG TC Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black vs EMG JX Active Bass Pickup Set in Black

The EMG TC is a guitar pickup set designed for six-string instruments, while the EMG JX is a bass pickup set engineered for four-string basses. Choose the TC if you play electric guitar and want active hum-free single-coil clarity; choose the JX if you play bass and need punchy, articulate tone with high output modes for slap and fingerstyle.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG TC Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black

$189.00
View EMG TC Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black

EMG JX Active Bass Pickup Set in Black

$199.00
View EMG JX Active Bass Pickup Set in Black

Specs side by side

EMG TC Active Single Coil Pickup Set in BlackEMG JX Active Bass Pickup Set in Black
Price$189.00$199.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG TC Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black

  • ✓ Bright, articulate single-coil character ideal for funk, fusion, and modern rock guitar
  • ✓ Active electronics eliminate hum and RF interference for studio-quality noise floor
  • ✓ Responsive dynamics preserve pick articulation and string separation across all positions
  • ✓ Budget-friendly entry to EMG's active single-coil performance

Why choose EMG JX Active Bass Pickup Set in Black

  • ✓ Purpose-built for bass with dual output modes (2.00V finger/thumb, 8.00V thump) for versatile dynamics
  • ✓ Ultra-low battery drain (80µA) delivers 3,000 hours per battery change
  • ✓ Clean -105dB noise floor at 60Hz ensures signal integrity at high gain
  • ✓ Solderless connections simplify installation into modern four-string bass instruments
Bottom line: If you own a guitar, buy the EMG TC for bright, hum-free single-coil tones in high-gain or studio settings. If you play a four-string bass, buy the EMG JX for punchy, articulate bass tone with flexible output control suited to both fingerstyle and slap techniques.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use either pickup on the same instrument?

No. The EMG TC is designed for six-string guitars with standard guitar configuration, while the EMG JX is engineered specifically for four-string basses with a maximum string width of 69.2mm. They are not compatible across instrument types.

Which is better for studio recording?

Both excel in studio: the TC offers guitar clarity and hum-free active circuitry for clean or high-gain overdubs, while the JX provides bass-specific output modes and ultra-clean noise performance for recorded bass tracks. Choice depends on your instrument.

Do both require battery maintenance?

The TC operates on active circuitry but specific battery specs are not detailed in its description. The JX uses a 9V battery with exceptional 3,000-hour life and minimal 80µA current draw, making battery changes infrequent.

Are these good for beginners or only professionals?

Both are rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional skill levels. While not explicitly designed as beginner pickups, musicians at any level can use them once their instrument setup is appropriate. The JX's solderless connections make installation easier than traditional wired systems.

✨
🎸

Welcome! Before we chat…

Drop your name and email so we can follow up if you reach us after hours.

We never share your info.

✨
🟢 Specialist connected