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

The EMG 66 delivers higher output with aggressive low-end punch ideal for drop-tuned metal, while the EMG 57 emphasizes articulate midrange and vocal clarity suited to progressive and high-gain styles. Choose the 66 for maximum gain and heaviness; choose the 57 for tighter definition and pick articulation.

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EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

$129.00
View EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

$129.00
View EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

Specs side by side

EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in BlackEMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Price$129.00$129.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Higher output with aggressive, punchy character for heavy drop-tuned riffs
  • ✓ Tight, controlled low end cuts through dense mixes
  • ✓ Ceramic pole pieces enhance articulate highs
  • ✓ Compact footprint fits most guitar body cavities

Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Vocal midrange emphasis provides articulate, punchy pick attack
  • ✓ Steel pole pieces deliver tight definition in bridge and neck positions
  • ✓ Controlled output prevents mud in palm-muted applications
  • ✓ Excellent battery life at 1500 hours per 9V cell
Bottom line: Metal and hard-rock players seeking maximum aggression and low-end punch should choose the EMG 66. Progressive and high-gain players prioritizing midrange clarity and articulation should select the EMG 57.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup is better for drop tunings and ultra-heavy riffing?

The EMG 66 is engineered for drop tunings with its tight, controlled low end and high output designed to maintain clarity in heavily distorted contexts. The 57's more balanced output and midrange focus makes it better suited to standard or alternate tunings played with high-gain tone.

Can I use either pickup in both bridge and neck positions?

Yes, both are versatile humbuckers designed for bridge and neck use. The 66 excels in bridge positions for maximum aggression, while the 57's articulate midrange works well in both positions for consistency across the guitar.

What is the main tonal difference between the two?

The EMG 66 emphasizes tight lows and articulate highs with an aggressive overall character, while the EMG 57 focuses on vocal midrange and punchy pick attack with more controlled output. The 66 is darker and heavier; the 57 is brighter and more defined.

Do both use solderless installation?

Yes, both pickups feature solderless quick-connect wiring that eliminates traditional soldering. The EMG 66 includes integrated potentiometers and a stereo output jack, while the EMG 57 uses a simpler 2-conductor configuration.

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