EMG4661 vs EMG4662 — Compare

EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

The EMG 66 emphasizes harmonic complexity and articulate midrange with tight lows, while the EMG 57 prioritizes focused midrange clarity and punchy output for high-gain applications. Choose the 66 for studio versatility and tonal depth; choose the 57 for rock and metal where cutting through dense mixes matters most.

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EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

$149.00
View EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$149.00
View EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

Specs side by side

EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black ChromeEMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Price$149.00$149.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

  • ✓ Harmonic complexity and articulate midrange tone
  • ✓ Tight, controlled low end for clean definition
  • ✓ Includes comprehensive accessory kit with potentiometers and output jack
  • ✓ Solderless installation system speeds up retrofit setup

Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ Focused 2.11 kHz resonant frequency cuts through high-gain mixes
  • ✓ Exceptional 1500-hour battery life per cell
  • ✓ Rated up to 27V DC for extended headroom in custom rigs
  • ✓ Lower impedance (10 kΩ) for transparent clarity
Bottom line: Pick the EMG 66 if you record in studios or need versatile tonal complexity across genres; pick the EMG 57 if you're a rock or metal player who prioritizes cutting presence and maximum battery efficiency in demanding live rigs.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup is better for high-gain metal and rock?

The EMG 57 is engineered specifically for rock and metal, with a resonant peak at 2.11 kHz designed to cut through dense mixes. The EMG 66 is better suited to studio sessions and home recording where tonal complexity matters more than raw gain-focused clarity.

Do these pickups require soldering to install?

The EMG 66 includes a solderless installation system with solder-free connectors. The EMG 57 description does not mention solderless installation, so traditional soldering may be required.

How long does a 9V battery last in each pickup?

The EMG 57 draws only 160 microamps at 9V, providing approximately 1500 hours of battery life per cell. The EMG 66 specifications do not list battery life, suggesting higher current draw.

Which pickup has lower impedance?

The EMG 57 has an output impedance of 10 kΩ. The EMG 66 is described as having low impedance characteristics but does not specify an exact value, making the 57 the more transparent choice for impedance-sensitive circuits.

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