EMG2681 vs EMG2965 — Compare

EMG 40JCS 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 60X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

The EMG 40JCS is a 5-string bass pickup designed for low-end clarity and dynamic range, while the EMG 60X is a guitar humbucker built for aggressive rock and metal tones. Choose the 40JCS if you play 5-string bass; choose the 60X if you play guitar and want articulate high-gain performance.

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

EMG 40JCS 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

$119.00
View EMG 40JCS 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

EMG 60X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

$119.00
View EMG 60X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

Specs side by side

EMG 40JCS 5-String Active Bass Pickup in BlackEMG 60X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Price$119.00$119.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 40JCS 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Purpose-built for 5-string bass with consistent response across all five strings
  • ✓ Dual output modes (1.00 V standard, 4.50 V thump) for dramatic dynamic range
  • ✓ Solderless installation with complete electronics package included

Why choose EMG 60X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Guitar humbucker design with tight lows and crisp highs for rock and metal
  • ✓ Vacuum-sealed epoxy coating reduces microphonic feedback in demanding conditions
  • ✓ 4-conductor wiring enables stereo output and expanded tonal flexibility
Bottom line: Buy the 40JCS if you own a 5-string bass and need clarity in funk, progressive, or studio work. Buy the 60X if you play electric guitar and want surgical precision in heavy riffs and lead work.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the 60X on a bass?

No. The 40JCS is specifically engineered as a 5-string bass pickup with pole pieces optimized for bass frequency response. The 60X is a guitar humbucker and will not fit or function properly in a bass cavity.

What is the main tonal difference between these pickups?

The 40JCS emphasizes commanding low end and ceramic clarity at 4.04 kHz resonance for bass definition. The 60X prioritizes articulate midrange and crisp highs at 2.28 kHz resonance for guitar cutting through a mix.

Do both use the same battery and runtime?

Yes. Both feature a 9V battery with over 3,000 hours of playing time, and both include solderless installation systems.

Which is better for studio work?

Both excel in studios. The 40JCS suits bass tracking with its tight defined midrange and high output headroom. The 60X suits guitar recording with its controlled aggression and surgical precision.

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