EMG2642 vs EMG2966 — Compare
EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The MMHZ is a passive humbucker designed for Music Man basses with organic, balanced tone ideal for funk, jazz, and studio work, while the 81X is an active humbucker with high output and tight low-end for metal, hard rock, and modern rock. Choose the MMHZ if you play funk or jazz on a Music Man bass; choose the 81X if you play heavy genres and need aggressive tone with headroom.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black | EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $119.00 | $119.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery or external power
- ✓ Organic, articulate midrange with solid low-end balance
- ✓ Direct replacement for Music Man bass pickups
- ✓ Five-pin connector allows dual-coil or single-coil wiring modes
Why choose EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ High 8.50V output cuts through dense mixes and heavy gain
- ✓ Tight low-end definition with focused, percussive attack
- ✓ Solderless quick-connect system eliminates soldering
- ✓ Single 9V battery lasts approximately 3000 hours (one year typical use)
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 81X on a Music Man bass?
No. The MMHZ is purpose-built as a direct replacement for Music Man bass pickups. The 81X uses a standard humbucker mounting ring and is designed for guitars, not Music Man basses.
Do I need to replace batteries regularly with the 81X?
The 81X runs on a single 9V battery rated for approximately 3000 hours of typical use, which translates to roughly one year before replacement is needed.
Which pickup is better for jazz and funk?
The MMHZ is ideal for jazz and funk, delivering articulate midrange and balanced response without the aggressive high-output character of active electronics. The 81X is designed for metal and hard rock, not jazz or blues.
What's the main tone difference between passive and active?
The MMHZ (passive) maintains natural impedance for organic tone shaped by your amp and preamp, while the 81X (active) uses onboard preamp electronics to deliver high output and tight, controlled low-end definition optimized for high-gain applications.