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EMG 89 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 89R Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Both are budget-friendly EMG 89 variants with switchable modes, but the 89R offers slightly longer battery life (3,290 vs 3,000 hours) and detailed resonant-frequency specs for neck-position players, while the standard 89 is marketed more broadly across genres and applications. Choose the 89R if you prioritize studio/recording precision and extended-range compatibility; choose the standard 89 if you want the most versatile platform for metal, hard rock, and gigging across multiple positions.
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EMG 89 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG 89R Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 89 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG 89R Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 89 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Marketed for metal, hard rock, and progressive—broader genre versatility
- ✓ Solderless connections with included potentiometers simplify installation
- ✓ Medium output suits both high-gain and clean applications across positions
- ✓ Budget-friendly active humbucker with proven switchable dual/single coil design
Why choose EMG 89R Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Optimized for neck-position installation with tailored resonant frequencies (2.55 kHz humbucker, 3.75 kHz single-coil)
- ✓ Longer battery life: 3,290 hours vs 3,000 hours on standard 89
- ✓ Lower power consumption: 152 microamps with documented noise floor (-99 dBV humbucker, -94 dBV single-coil)
- ✓ Designed specifically for studio sessions, recording, and extended-range guitars
Frequently asked questions
What's the main functional difference between these two pickups?
Both feature switchable humbucker and single-coil modes with Alnico V magnets and separate preamps. The 89R is optimized for neck-position use with specific resonant frequencies (2.55 kHz humbucker, 3.75 kHz single-coil) and lower documented noise; the standard 89 is a more general-purpose design. Battery life differs slightly: 89R offers 3,290 hours vs 89's 3,000 hours.
Which is better for studio and recording?
The EMG 89R is explicitly designed for studio sessions and home recording, with published noise floors and frequency response data. The standard 89 is versatile for studio work but not specifically optimized for that application.
Can I use the 89R in bridge position or the 89 in neck position?
Yes, both have standard 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm mounting dimensions. However, the 89R's tuned resonance characteristics are designed around neck-position use, so the standard 89's broader approach may be preferable if you need bridge or middle compatibility.
Are the solderless connections and installation specs the same?
The 89 explicitly includes a 25k potentiometer and push/pull pot in the solderless kit. The 89R uses 4-core wiring with 2-wire connections; full solderless component details are not specified for the 89R, so installation complexity may differ slightly.