EMG6380 vs EMG6470 — Compare
EMG 45PX-RC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup vs EMG HX Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome
The 45PX-RC is a soapbar designed specifically for 6-string bass with reverse magnet orientation for extended-range clarity, while the HX is a single-coil pickup in humbucker housing for guitar or general electric instruments. Choose the 45PX-RC if you play 6-string bass; choose the HX if you need a guitar pickup with single-coil articulation in a humbucker footprint.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG 45PX-RC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup
EMG HX Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 45PX-RC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup | EMG HX Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 45PX-RC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup
- ✓ Purpose-built for 6-string bass with optimized string spacing and magnet configuration
- ✓ Reverse magnet positioning provides extended-range clarity without losing low-end punch
- ✓ Compact soapbar format fits bass-specific electronics and cavities
- ✓ Tight, controlled fundamentals ideal for drop tunings and modern bass playing
Why choose EMG HX Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Single-coil snap and articulation in standard humbucker housing—no routing needed
- ✓ Active Tone Control (VLPF) allows real-time high-frequency shaping
- ✓ High output and wide frequency response suit studio recording and clean articulation
- ✓ Fits standard guitar routes without modification
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup on bass or guitar?
No. The 45PX-RC is engineered for 6-string bass with bass-specific magnet orientation, string spacing, and coil design. The HX is a guitar-format single-coil pickup in humbucker housing. They are not interchangeable instrument classes.
What does the reverse magnet configuration on the 45PX-RC do?
Positioning the treble magnet toward the bridge provides extended-range clarity and articulate upper-midrange response while maintaining the focused low-end character. This benefits modern bass playing with extended range and drop tunings.
Does the HX have tone shaping the 45PX-RC lacks?
Yes. The HX includes an Active Tone Control (VLPF) for high-frequency roll-off adjustment on the fly. The 45PX-RC is a passive soapbar pickup designed for punch and dynamics rather than onboard tone sculpting.
Do both use solderless installation?
Yes, both feature EMG's solderless wiring system with pluggable cables, making installation straightforward for intermediate to professional players. Both eliminate traditional soldering work.