EMG3265 vs EMG3294 — Compare
EMG 89X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 35TWX Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 89X is a guitar humbucker pickup with dual-mode (humbucker/single-coil) versatility for six-string instruments, while the EMG 35TWX is a bass soapbar pickup designed exclusively for four-string bass. Choose the 89X if you play electric guitar across metal, hard rock, and progressive styles; choose the 35TWX if you need a modern active bass pickup for funk and aggressive playing.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG 35TWX Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 89X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG 35TWX Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 89X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Dual-mode design switches between humbucker and single-coil tones without modification
- ✓ Fits standard guitar humbucker routes in neck or bridge position
- ✓ Complete system includes potentiometers, controls, and battery clip ready to install
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver warm, balanced response across multiple playing styles
Why choose EMG 35TWX Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Purpose-built for bass with soapbar form factor and tight low-end articulation
- ✓ X Series preamp provides high headroom and dynamic clarity under hard attack
- ✓ Ceramic and ceramic/steel dual magnet design optimized for bass frequency range
- ✓ Active electronics deliver low output impedance and strong signal integrity
Frequently asked questions
Are these pickups compatible with the same instrument?
No. The EMG 89X is designed for electric guitar with standard humbucker routing. The EMG 35TWX is a bass soapbar pickup built for four-string bass instruments with standard bass pickup cavities. They serve entirely different instruments.
What is the key tonal difference between these two?
The 89X offers versatile guitar tones ranging from warm humbucker thickness to articulate single-coil clarity with medium output. The 35TWX delivers tight bass low-end with punchy definition and high headroom, engineered for aggressive bass playing and modern funk/progressive styles.
Do both require batteries?
Yes, both are active pickups requiring battery power. The 89X includes a battery clip in its complete system. The 35TWX operates on active electronics but requires battery installation as part of the bass wiring harness.
Which is easier to install?
The EMG 89X uses a solderless connector system and arrives with all needed controls and hardware, making it straightforward for intermediate players. The 35TWX includes a complete wiring harness for bass integration, which is standard for active bass pickups but may require more involved installation depending on your bass wiring setup.