EMG4900 vs EMG4902 — Compare
EMG 57-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black vs EMG 66-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 57-7 emphasizes controlled sustain and aggressive clarity with Alnico V and steel poles, while the EMG 66-7 prioritizes midrange articulation and mix-cutting power with ceramic poles and a defined 1.61 kHz peak. Choose the 57-7 for maximum aggression and sustain control; choose the 66-7 for superior articulation and presence in dense, low-tuned mixes.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 57-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | EMG 66-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 57-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Alnico V magnet with steel poles delivers controlled sustain and aggressive clarity
- ✓ Optimized for focused articulation without sacrificing aggressive character
- ✓ Solderless installation with included cables speeds setup
Why choose EMG 66-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Ceramic pole pieces and 1.61 kHz resonant peak excel at cutting through dense mixes
- ✓ Specified output voltages (3.00V single string, 4.50V strummed) and -100 dB noise floor provide transparent signal delivery
- ✓ Exceptional 1500-hour battery life reduces maintenance burden
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between these two pickups?
The 57-7 emphasizes controlled sustain and aggressive clarity through Alnico V magnets and steel poles. The 66-7 focuses on midrange articulation and upper-mid presence through ceramic poles and a 1.61 kHz resonant peak, making it better for cutting through dense mixes.
Do these pickups require different power setups?
The 57-7 uses a battery bus and stereo output jack system with 25k potentiometers included. The 66-7 is powered by a single 9V battery with 1500-hour battery life and draws only 160 microamps, making it more battery-efficient for extended play.
Which pickup is better for extreme low tunings?
The EMG 66-7 is specifically designed for drop tunings with its focused midrange character and 1.61 kHz peak that maintains articulation on lower strings. The 57-7 handles extended range well but prioritizes aggression over mix presence.
Are the installation processes the same?
Both use solderless installation and come in the same 3.5 x 1.5 inch soapbar form factor with 61mm pole piece spacing for seven-string compatibility. Installation difficulty is equivalent between the two.