EMG595 vs EMG5983 — Compare
EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black vs EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Chrome
The EMG SV is an active single-coil set built for clarity and articulation in high-gain and studio contexts, while the EMG 57/66 is an active humbucker pairing designed for versatility across metal, rock, and professional gigging with higher output. Choose the SV for single-coil definition and tight focus; choose the 57/66 for humbucker thickness and balanced rhythm-to-lead performance.
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EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black | EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $269.00 | $269.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Single-coil articulation with zero hum through active noise management
- ✓ Lower current draw (660 µA) extends battery life significantly
- ✓ Resonant frequency peaked at 3.20 kHz for punchy, focused midrange clarity
- ✓ Compact, responsive design ideal for extended-range and studio tracking
Why choose EMG 57/66 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Chrome
- ✓ Higher output and balanced harmonic response suits metal, hard rock, and gigging demands
- ✓ Solderless installation requires no soldering expertise
- ✓ Exceptional battery life (1500 hours per 9V battery)
- ✓ Humbucker coverage provides thicker tone across rhythm and lead without switching pickup types
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
The EMG 57/66 is specifically designed for metal and hard rock with its higher output, balanced response, and humbucker character. The EMG SV's single-coil design excels in high-gain studio tracking but delivers a thinner, more articulate tone suited to progressive or clarity-focused players rather than thick rhythm tones.
How do noise floors compare?
The EMG SV achieves an exceptionally low -115 dBV noise floor, making it ideal for studio work and hum-sensitive recording. The EMG 57/66 is described as having minimal noise but uses a standard humbucker design; it's quieter than passive humbuckers but not specified to the same precision as the SV.
Which requires less maintenance?
The EMG 57/66 has a longer battery life of approximately 1500 hours per 9V, compared to the EMG SV's unspecified but likely shorter span due to higher impedance demands. The 57/66's solderless design also means simpler future modifications and swaps without tools.
Are these suitable for beginners?
The EMG 57/66 lists beginner as an appropriate skill level and includes solderless technology, making installation accessible without electronics knowledge. The EMG SV targets intermediate and advanced players and, while still user-friendly with Quik-Connect cables, assumes more familiarity with high-gain and studio contexts.