EMG6051 vs EMG6069 — Compare
EMG Fat 55-7 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black vs EMG M-72 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
The Fat 55-7 Retro Active emphasizes warmth, harmonic richness, and dynamic response with different magnet configs per pickup, while the M-72 prioritizes articulate punch, tight lows, and clarity through low-impedance design and mini-rod magnets. Choose the Fat 55-7 for tonal versatility and vintage-modern hybrid character; choose the M-72 for precision, tight definition, and maximum clarity in high-gain metal contexts.
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EMG Fat 55-7 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
EMG M-72 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG Fat 55-7 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black | EMG M-72 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $229.00 | $229.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG Fat 55-7 Retro Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Alnico 2 neck and Alnico 5 bridge magnets provide natural tonal balance between warmth and clarity
- ✓ Warm, harmonic character suits both clean and high-gain applications with retro-modern versatility
- ✓ Higher output voltage (4.50V neck, 4.0V bridge) delivers robust, articulate mids and controlled sustain
- ✓ Excellent noise floor (–106 dB neck, –102 dB bridge) maintains clarity across all frequencies
Why choose EMG M-72 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Low-impedance design minimizes RF interference and cable capacitance for consistent clarity over long runs
- ✓ Exceptionally efficient 1.3 milliamps draw extends battery life significantly versus standard active designs
- ✓ Mini-rod Alnico 2 magnets deliver tight, punchy low end and responsive midrange ideal for metal precision
- ✓ Compact footprint and no-string-grounding design simplify installation and eliminate shock hazard
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
Both are excellent for metal and hard rock. The M-72 excels in ultra-tight, articulate punch and clarity with minimal noise, ideal for precision and consistency. The Fat 55-7 offers more harmonic warmth and controlled sustain, suiting players who want character alongside aggression.
How do the magnets differ and why does it matter?
The Fat 55-7 uses Alnico 2 in the neck (warmer, harmonic) and Alnico 5 in the bridge (brighter, clearer) for balanced frequency response. The M-72 uses Alnico 2 rods in both pickups with a mini-rod profile, emphasizing tight, punchy response throughout. Different magnet choices yield distinctly different tonal characters.
Which has better battery life?
The M-72 is significantly more efficient at 1.3 milliamps total draw, extending battery life considerably. The Fat 55-7 draws 350 microamps and provides 715-hour runtime, which is solid but less efficient than the M-72.
Are there wiring or installation differences?
The M-72 requires no string grounding, eliminating shock hazard, and comes with a complete loom of connecting cables for straightforward installation. The Fat 55-7 includes split-shaft pots and flexible wiring options but assumes standard humbucker routing knowledge. Both integrate into most instruments easily.