EMG4690 vs EMG4996 — Compare
EMG J5 Active Bass Pickup Set in Ivory vs EMG J5 Active Bass Pickup Set in White
Both are EMG J5 Active Bass Pickup Sets in budget price tier, designed identically for 5-string jazz bass. The key difference is the finish color—Ivory versus White—and Product B includes published electrical specifications (output voltage, noise floor, impedance, battery life, resonant frequency) while Product A focuses on physical dimensions and installation components. Choose based on your instrument's aesthetic and whether you need documented electrical performance data.
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 J5 Active Bass Pickup Set in Ivory | EMG J5 Active Bass Pickup Set in White | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $209.00 | $209.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG J5 Active Bass Pickup Set in Ivory
- ✓ Ivory finish for vintage-inspired or warm-toned instrument aesthetics
- ✓ Complete plug-and-play active electronics system included
- ✓ Compact form factor optimized for modern narrow-spaced bass designs
Why choose EMG J5 Active Bass Pickup Set in White
- ✓ White finish blends with modern or minimalist instrument designs
- ✓ Published electrical specs: 4.50V output, -101 dB noise floor, 3000-hour battery life
- ✓ Documented 3.95 kHz resonant frequency for controlled midrange presence
Frequently asked questions
Are these pickups truly identical except for color?
Yes. Both are EMG J5 matched pairs with identical dimensions (0.725" × 3.97" neck, 0.725" × 4.1" bridge), radiused ceramic bar magnets, and accommodate up to 88.4mm string width. Product B includes published electrical specifications; both include the same active electronics components and installation hardware.
What tonal character should I expect?
Both deliver articulate, punchy tone with tight string definition and clarity—ideal for jazz and funk. Product B's specs confirm 3.95 kHz resonant frequency tuned for balanced midrange and low-mud response across the 5-string range.
Are these suitable for metal or drop tunings?
Both descriptions note they are not ideal for metal or drop-tuning applications. The active single-coil design prioritizes articulation and clarity over the sustain and aggression metal players typically require.
What comes in the box?
Both kits include the matched pickup pair, 2× 25k volume potentiometers, 1× 25k tone potentiometer, stereo output jack, battery bus, mounting hardware, cables (Quik-Connect and battery), and everything needed for complete installation. Battery life is rated at 3000 hours per 9V supply.