EMG3590 vs EMG3643 — Compare

EMG 45JX 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

The EMG 45JX is a 6-string bass pickup with active tone shaping for modern bass players, while the EMG 81TWX is a guitar humbucker with dual-mode switching for rock and metal. Choose the 45JX if you play 6-string bass; choose the 81TWX if you play guitar and want high-gain versatility.

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

EMG 45JX 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

$139.00
View EMG 45JX 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

$139.00
View EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

Specs side by side

EMG 45JX 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in BlackEMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Price$139.00$139.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 45JX 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Designed specifically for 6-string bass with up to 92mm string spacing
  • ✓ Variable Low Pass Filter tone control for bright to warm flexibility
  • ✓ Solderless installation reduces setup time
  • ✓ High output with low noise ideal for modern bass styles

Why choose EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Dual-mode design switches between humbucker and single-coil in one pickup
  • ✓ Completely pre-wired drop-in replacement with no soldering required
  • ✓ Tight low end and articulate highs optimized for high-gain rigs
  • ✓ Supports voltages up to 27V DC for extended headroom and versatility
Bottom line: Buy the 45JX if you own a 6-string bass and need modern, articulate tone with easy installation. Buy the 81TWX if you own a guitar and play rock or metal with high-gain amplifiers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the 45JX on a guitar?

No. The 45JX is a bass pickup engineered for 6-string bass configurations with 92mm maximum string spacing. It is not compatible with standard guitar pickups cavities or string widths.

Can I use the 81TWX on a bass?

No. The 81TWX is a guitar humbucker with standard 78.5mm mounting hole spacing designed for guitar bodies. It is not suitable for bass applications.

Which pickup is better for drop tunings?

Both are rated for drop tunings, but the 45JX is optimized for 6-string bass drop tunings with its controlled low end, while the 81TWX is optimized for guitar drop tunings with its tight low-end response and high-gain clarity.

How long does each battery last?

The 81TWX battery lasts approximately 1500 hours at 160 microamps draw from a single 9V battery. The 45JX product information does not specify battery life or power consumption.

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