EMG6489 vs EMG6490 — Compare
EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Gold vs EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome
Both are passive Marty Friedman signature humbuckers with identical core specs (Alnico 5, 275 Gauss, 16.2 kOhm, solderless wiring), differing only in aesthetics and stated skill-level range. The Gold version targets intermediate-to-professional players seeking striking visual presence, while the Black Chrome version markets to a broader beginner-through-professional audience with a more traditional look.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Gold
EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Gold | EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249.00 | $249.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Gold
- ✓ Gold finish with brushed black chrome covers makes a bold visual statement
- ✓ Neck pickup's 3.00 kHz resonance emphasizes thick, articulate mids
- ✓ Explicitly tuned for metal, hard rock, progressive, and djent genres
Why choose EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Black Chrome
- ✓ Brushed black chrome finish suits studio and live performance aesthetics
- ✓ Marketed to beginners, removing intimidation factor for newer players
- ✓ Emphasizes pure signal and noise-free passive operation
Frequently asked questions
Are the actual tone and output specifications identical between these two?
Yes. Both use Alnico 5 magnets at 275 Gauss, 16.2 kOhm resistance, 4-conductor wiring, and solderless installation. The only differences are finish color and the stated skill-level range.
Will either pickup work better for blues or jazz?
Neither is recommended for jazz or blues. Both are designed for metal, hard rock, progressive, and djent. Their aggressive character and cutting presence prioritize modern high-gain styles over vintage warmth.
Do I need soldering experience to install these?
No. Both sets include solderless connectors and a complete wiring kit, so installation is beginner-friendly. Standard humbucker routing compatibility means they fit any conventional humbucker-equipped guitar.
Which finish is more durable or affects tone?
Both finishes are brushed metal on the covers. The Gold set pairs gold with brushed black chrome, while the Black Chrome set is all brushed black chrome. Neither finish choice affects magnetic performance or tone—only aesthetics.