EMG 40J-R 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3990
Description
EMG 40J-R 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 40J-R is a compact, hot active pickup engineered for 5-string bass applications where articulation and controlled output matter. Its single solid bar ceramic magnet and tight 4.8 kHz resonant frequency deliver focused mids and defined string separation, ideal for players who prioritize clarity and note definition over raw low-end bloom. This pickup integrates straightforward solderless installation with a full active electronics package, making it a practical choice for upgrades or new builds.
Tone & Output Characteristics
Output sits at 0.8V RMS with 1.10V peak voltage, providing enough gain to drive amplifiers without excessive compression or noise. The -91 dBV output noise floor keeps the signal chain clean, while the 10 kΩ output impedance ensures solid compatibility with most bass preamps and mixing equipment. This measured response suits precision-oriented playing rather than maximum aggression.
Power & Installation
Active electronics draw just 80 microamps at 9V, stretching battery life to a practical 3000 hours—roughly 18 months of regular use. The included solderless system eliminates soldering entirely, and the maximum 27 VDC supply rating provides headroom if you run higher-voltage power supplies; the package includes 25k volume and tone potentiometers, battery compartment, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, pickup cable, connection cables, and battery cable—everything needed for a complete retrofit or new installation.
Key Features
- Single solid bar ceramic magnet for focused, controlled tone
- Resonant frequency: 4.8 kHz for midrange clarity and string definition
- RMS output: 0.8V; peak output: 1.10V
- Output noise: -91 dBV for clean, quiet signal
- Output impedance: 10 kΩ
- Dimensions: 102.0 mm length × 38.1 mm width; fits maximum 76.2 mm string spacing
- Current draw: 80 microamps @ 9V
- Battery life: 3000 hours; maximum supply voltage 27 VDC
- Single coil design
- Solderless installation system with included electronics and potentiometers
- Made in USA
- Black finish
The EMG 40J-R combines compact dimensions, low electrical noise, and all-in-one active electronics into a pickup that rewards precision and consistency.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 40J-R is a compact active 5-string bass pickup built for articulate, controlled tone with defined string separation and tight lows—ideal for funk, jazz, and precision studio work. Its focused midrange character and low noise floor make it a reliable choice for players who value clarity and note definition over raw aggression. Complete solderless electronics package and 3000-hour battery life mean you get a road-ready, low-maintenance upgrade or build without the soldering hassle.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Precision playing
Not the best pick for
- – Metal
- – Drop Tunings
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
This pickup excels in funk, jazz, studio sessions, and any precision-focused playing where articulate mids and defined string separation are priorities. Its focused tone and controlled output are less suited to metal or drop-tuning applications where maximum aggression and deep low-end bloom are typical demands.
Does this pickup include everything I need to install it?
Yes, the package includes the pickup, a complete active electronics system with 25k volume and tone potentiometers, battery compartment, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, pickup cable, connection cables, and battery cable. The solderless installation system eliminates any need for a soldering iron, making it straightforward for retrofits or new builds.
How long will the battery last, and what's the power draw?
At 80 microamps at 9V, the battery lasts approximately 3000 hours, which translates to roughly 18 months of regular playing. The pickup supports a maximum supply voltage of 27 VDC, providing headroom if you use higher-voltage power supplies.
What's the output level and noise floor, and will it work with standard bass rigs?
The pickup delivers 0.8V RMS output with a -91 dBV noise floor and 10 kΩ output impedance, ensuring a clean signal with solid compatibility with most bass preamps and mixing equipment. This measured response is designed for clarity rather than maximum drive.
What makes the 40J-R's tone different from passive pickups?
The 40J-R's single solid bar ceramic magnet and 4.8 kHz resonant frequency create focused, articulate mids with defined string separation and a tight low end. The active electronics provide a clean, low-noise signal that prioritizes note definition and controlled output over raw low-end bloom.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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