EMG3779 vs EMG3990 — Compare
EMG 60AX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 40J-R 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 60AX is a guitar humbucker for rock and metal, while the EMG 40J-R is a bass pickup designed for funk and jazz. Choose the 60AX if you play electric guitar in classic rock or metal; choose the 40J-R if you play 5-string bass and prioritize articulation and note clarity.
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EMG 60AX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG 40J-R 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 60AX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG 40J-R 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $119.00 | $119.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 60AX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Designed specifically for electric guitar with balanced humbucker character
- ✓ Higher output voltage (3.00V string, 8.00V strum) provides responsive dynamics for guitar rigs
- ✓ Optimized for classic rock, metal, and modern genres
- ✓ Long shaft variant fits non-standard guitar body cavities
Why choose EMG 40J-R 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Purpose-built for 5-string bass with tight, focused low end
- ✓ Solderless installation included—no soldering required
- ✓ Complete retrofit package with volume/tone controls and all cables
- ✓ Defined string separation ideal for funk and precision jazz playing
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 40J-R on a guitar?
No. The 40J-R is engineered specifically for 5-string bass applications with a resonant frequency (4.8 kHz) and output characteristics optimized for bass tone. The 60AX is the guitar humbucker in this comparison.
Which has lower noise?
The EMG 60AX has a lower noise floor at -105 dBV compared to the 40J-R at -91 dBV, making the 60AX slightly quieter in high-gain or studio applications.
Do both have the same battery life?
Both draw 80 microamps at 9V and deliver approximately 3000 hours of battery life. The 60AX yields roughly two years of moderate playing, while the 40J-R provides about 18 months of regular bass use.
Which is easier to install?
The EMG 40J-R includes a complete solderless installation system with cables, controls, and battery compartment. The 60AX is a pickup-only replacement requiring integration into existing guitar electronics.