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EMG RTC Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG RTC is a rear-position Telecaster pickup optimized for country, rock, and alternative tones with classic single-coil articulation, while the EMG S is a general-purpose active single coil engineered for high-gain metal and precision recording where noise rejection and output consistency are paramount. Choose the RTC if you play Tele-style country or rock; choose the S if you need maximum clarity in distorted contexts or play extended-range instruments.
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Specs side by side
| EMG RTC Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG RTC Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Rear Telecaster position design fits standard Tele cavities without modification
- ✓ Voiced specifically for country and alternative rock genres
- ✓ Ceramic magnet emphasizes treble definition and crisp top-end presence
- ✓ Drop-in compatibility with existing Tele wiring
Why choose EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Exceptionally low noise floor (-90 dBV) cuts through high-gain distortion without muddiness
- ✓ Detailed specifications (4.35 kHz resonant frequency, 0.6V RMS output) ensure predictable performance across different amp setups
- ✓ Works equally well in any single-coil cavity position, offering flexibility beyond rear Tele placement
- ✓ 1000-hour battery life per 9V cell reduces maintenance burden in gigging scenarios
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the EMG S in a Telecaster?
Yes, the S is a general-purpose single-coil that fits any standard single-coil cavity. However, the RTC is specifically voiced and positioned for Tele rear slots, so it will deliver more tailored tonal character in that application. The S works anywhere but isn't optimized for Tele-specific balance.
Which pickup has lower noise?
The EMG S explicitly rates a -90 dBV noise floor and is engineered for high-gain clarity. The RTC's noise specifications are not detailed, though both use active circuitry to reduce noise compared to passive designs. If noise floor is critical, the S is the measurable choice.
Are both pickups suitable for metal?
The RTC is explicitly not ideal for metal; it's voiced for country and alternative rock. The S is designed for high-gain metal and excels in that context. If metal is your genre, the S is the clear choice.
What is the output difference between these pickups?
The S provides 0.6V RMS and 0.85V peak output with a 10 kΩ impedance, offering stable headroom for any amp. The RTC's exact output voltage is not specified, but both are described as high-output active designs. The S's published specs make it more predictable for matching to specific rigs.