EMG5984 vs EMG5999 — Compare
EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
Both are EMG F-57 active humbuckers in budget tier, differing primarily in finish (chrome vs. gold) and included accessories. The Chrome version is pickup-only; the Gold version ships with cable and potentiometers, making it more complete for DIY installation. Choose Chrome if you already have EMG wiring components; choose Gold if you want a ready-to-wire solution.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Pure pickup component—lower cost if you already own EMG harness and battery box
- ✓ Chrome finish aesthetic choice
- ✓ Proven aggressive tone for metal and hard rock
Why choose EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Includes cable and potentiometers—reduces need to buy components separately
- ✓ Solderless system simplifies installation without soldering iron
- ✓ Detailed specs published (2.11 kHz resonance, 3.00V single-string output, 1500-hour battery life)
Frequently asked questions
Do both pickups sound identical?
Both are EMG F-57 active humbuckers designed for high-output, articulate metal and hard rock tones. The Gold version specifies a 2.11 kHz resonant frequency and 3.00V/4.50V output, but the Chrome version's tone curve is not detailed—likely very similar, but the Gold's published specs suggest it may have slightly tighter midrange focus.
What's included in each package?
Chrome: pickup only—you must source your own EMG wiring harness, battery box, and potentiometers. Gold: pickup, cable, and potentiometers, with solderless connection design requiring no soldering.
Which is better for a beginner-intermediate player?
The Gold version is better for DIY installation because it ships with more hardware and uses a solderless system. Both require intermediate or advanced skill to route a guitar cavity if not already cut for a humbucker.
Can I use either in neck or bridge position?
The Chrome version states bridge or neck compatibility (verify your application). The Gold version is explicitly configured for bridge position; check your guitar's routing before ordering if you need neck placement.