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EMG 35P 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 35P is engineered specifically for 5-string basses with dual offset coils and extended housing, while the EMG 35J is a single-coil design built for standard 4-string configurations. Choose the 35P if you play a modern 5-string; choose the 35J if you need a versatile active pickup for a traditional 4-string bass.
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EMG 35P 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 35P 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black | EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.00 | $109.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 35P 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Designed specifically for 5-string bass spacing and narrow string configurations
- ✓ Dual offset coils with treble magnet positioned toward neck for optimized 5-string frequency response
- ✓ Extended housing (89mm × 38.1mm) engineered to sit flush in modern 5-string rigs
Why choose EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Single-coil MM-style soapbar design fits standard 4-string bass configurations
- ✓ Aggressive midrange (3.95 kHz resonant frequency) with excellent string separation
- ✓ Complete retrofit package with potentiometers, battery bus, cables, and mounting hardware included
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup fits my bass?
The 35P is engineered for 5-string basses with narrow string spacing using an extended housing design. The 35J uses an MM-style soapbar housing optimized for standard 4-string basses. Installing either into the wrong bass type will result in poor string alignment and tonal response.
Are the output levels the same?
Both pickups deliver identical measured output: 2.00V in finger/thumb technique and 4.50V in thump technique, providing the same dynamic range and responsive attack. The tonal character differs due to coil configuration (dual offset versus single-coil) and resonant frequency.
What is the difference in tone between them?
The 35P delivers a focused, controlled tone with punchy midrange suited to modern active playing across five strings. The 35J produces an aggressive midrange with excellent string separation and a tighter low-end, optimized for 4-string articulation. The 35J resonates at 3.95 kHz versus the 35P's 3.20 kHz, making it slightly brighter and more aggressive.
Do both work with 9V and 18V systems?
Yes, both pickups integrate with EMG's solderless 9V active system and support optional 18V upgrade for increased headroom and output. Both use standard 25 kΩ potentiometers and stereo output jacks.