EMG5968 vs EMG5969 — Compare

EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black vs EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra

Both are identical EMG Fat 55 Retro Active sets with the same electronics, specs, and performance—the only difference is cosmetics: black coils versus zebra striping. Choose based purely on visual preference; tone and functionality are otherwise identical.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black

$209.00
View EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black

EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra

$209.00
View EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra

Specs side by side

EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in BlackEMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra
Price$209.00$209.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black

  • ✓ Sleek all-black aesthetic matches modern or minimalist guitar finishes
  • ✓ Same warm vintage tone with contemporary active performance
  • ✓ Budget-friendly price with solderless installation

Why choose EMG Fat 55 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Zebra

  • ✓ Classic zebra-striped coil look adds retro visual character
  • ✓ Identical sonic performance and noise floor as Black version
  • ✓ Same complete wiring kit and 715-hour battery life
Bottom line: Pick the Black coils if you prefer a modern, understated look; pick the Zebra coils if you want traditional vintage aesthetics. The tone, electronics, and playability are exactly the same either way.

Frequently asked questions

Are the electrical specs identical between Black and Zebra?

Yes. Both have 3.0 kHz neck resonance at 4.50V output, 2.8 kHz bridge at 4.0V output, -106 dB noise floor (neck) and -102 dB (bridge), and 715-hour battery life on a single 9V charge.

Which is better for high-gain or metal?

The Zebra version lists Metal as a suitable genre, while the Black version does not. However, this likely reflects marketing positioning rather than actual tonal difference, as the specs are identical. Either will handle high-gain well.

Do both come with solderless installation?

Yes. Both include EMG's solderless system, pots, battery bus, cables, and mounting hardware for installation without soldering or routing modifications.

What magnets are used in each pickup?

Both sets use Alnico 2 in the neck for smooth articulate response and Alnico 5 in the bridge for punchy definition. Magnet type is identical between versions.

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