EMG3800 vs EMG4058 — Compare
EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG 66 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 57 is a bridge-position pickup optimized for aggressive, high-output articulation in metal and hard rock, while the EMG 66 is a neck-position pickup designed for balanced clarity and controlled dynamics across genres. Choose the 57 for maximum definition and punch at the bridge; choose the 66 for smooth, articulate neck tones.
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EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG 66 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG 66 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Higher output voltage (4.50 V strum) delivers more aggression and cut through dense mixes
- ✓ Engineered specifically for bridge-position performance with tight low-end focus
- ✓ Resonant frequency (2.11 kHz) prioritizes midrange clarity for lead work and solos
Why choose EMG 66 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Neck-position design provides balanced, smooth tone without muddiness or feedback
- ✓ Ceramic poles (vs. steel) offer controlled high-end response ideal for clean rhythm work
- ✓ Covered design adds shielding and aesthetic cohesion with matched finishes
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these interchangeably or are they position-specific?
The EMG 57 is optimized for bridge position with high output and focused mids, while the EMG 66 is designed for neck position with balanced response. While both are active humbuckers, their sonic character and engineering are tailored to their intended positions, so using them as matched pairs (57 bridge, 66 neck) yields the best tonal cohesion.
Which has a lower noise floor for recording?
The EMG 57 specifies an exceptionally low noise floor at -100 dB (60 Hz), making it slightly superior for noise-sensitive recording scenarios. The EMG 66 also features a low noise floor and is suitable for recording, though its exact dB specification is not provided in the available data.
Are both solderless, and how hard is installation?
Yes, both pickups feature solderless connectivity with 1/4" mono phone plug connectors, eliminating rewiring on compatible systems. Installation is straightforward on either; the main difference is physical position and cavity fit rather than installation difficulty.
Which pickup suits heavy metal and progressive music better?
The EMG 57 is explicitly optimized for metal and progressive with its tight low-end, focused midrange, and high output designed for articulate aggression. The EMG 66 is also suitable for these genres but excels more in balanced, controlled tones and is better suited to neck-position rhythm clarity rather than bridge-position lead definition.