EMG43 vs EMG51 — Compare
EMG FT Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG FTC Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG FT is a neck-only pickup for players upgrading existing Telecasters with classic character, while the EMG FTC is a complete solderless system ideal for new builds or retrofits requiring minimal installation effort. Choose the FT if you want a direct replacement; choose the FTC if you need a plug-and-play solution with all electronics included.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| EMG FT Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG FTC Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG FT Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Alnico magnet construction for warmer, more traditional single-coil character
- ✓ Neck-position specialist designed for classic Telecaster voicing
- ✓ Compact, focused solution if you already have a wiring harness
Why choose EMG FTC Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Complete solderless system with all electronics, potentiometers, and cables included
- ✓ No soldering required—quickest installation path for beginners
- ✓ Ceramic magnets deliver balanced midrange and snappy transients suited to studio and gigging
- ✓ 5.30 kHz resonant frequency optimized for clean and driven tones
Frequently asked questions
What's the main installation difference?
The FT is a pickup-only component requiring existing wiring infrastructure and soldering skills. The FTC arrives as a complete solderless system with all potentiometers, battery bus, cables, and switching components included, making it instant-ready for installation without a soldering iron.
Which magnet type sounds better for my style?
Alnico (FT) delivers warmer, more vintage single-coil character suited to country and blues. Ceramic (FTC) produces balanced, articulate midrange with punchier transients better for studio work, recording, and modern gigging. Both are hum-free active designs; the difference is tonal voicing.
Can I use either pickup as a drop-in replacement?
The FT requires existing electronics and soldering. The FTC is designed as a drop-in solderless replacement and works standalone without additional components, making it far simpler for retrofit situations.
What skill level do I need for each?
Both are suitable for beginners through professionals tonally, but the FT assumes soldering ability or professional installation. The FTC is beginner-friendly installation-wise because solderless connectors require no technical experience.