What output levels should I expect, and will I need a preamp?

The 40P delivers 2.00V output for finger and thumb technique and 4.50V for aggressive thumb work, giving you dynamic range built in. You won't need preamp tweaking to manage output dynamics—the pickup handles that naturally.

Does this fit my six-string bass, and how tight is the string spacing?

The 40P is designed for six-string bass with a maximum recommended string width of 76.2mm (3.00 inches), which accommodates modern tight six-string spacing. The housing is 4 inches long and 1.50 inches wide, so verify your bass cavity dimensions before ordering.

How long will the battery last, and what power options do I have?

The 40P draws only 80 microamps at 9V, delivering approximately 3000 hours of battery life between changes. It also supports 18V power systems and accepts up to 27 volts DC maximum, giving you flexibility across different bass electronics setups.

What tone should I expect in a mix, and what styles is it best suited for?

The 40P delivers a tight, articulate low end with a 3.20 kHz resonant peak that cuts through dense arrangements with clarity rather than bloom. It excels in progressive, funk, jazz, and aggressive extended-range styles where definition and punch are priorities.

Is the installation straightforward, and what comes in the box?

The EMG solderless wiring system is included and makes installation straightforward for intermediate and advanced players. The pickup ships with the black cover finish and all necessary wiring components.

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.

EMG 40P 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

The EMG 40P is a compact active soapbar built for six-string bass players who need extended-range clarity without sacrificing the tight low end. Its split-coil architecture and ceramic magnets deliver articulate finger work and explosive thump, making it equally reliable in modern progressive or aggressive styles. The narrow 3-inch string spacing accommodates tight six-string configurations while maintaining full output across the frequency range—critical for players who need consistent punch at every fret.

Tone & Output Characteristics

This active design produces 2.00V output for finger/thumb technique and 4.50V for aggressive thumb work, giving you the dynamic range to shape your sound live without needing multiple pickups or preamp tweaking. The 3.20 kHz resonant frequency focuses midrange definition where modern bass cuts through a dense mix, delivering clarity rather than bloom—essential for holding your pocket in a band context.

Electronics & Power

Built with EMG's solderless wiring system for fast, reliable installation, the pickup draws only 80 microamps at 9V, yielding exceptional 3000-hour battery life between changes—meaning fewer surprises on the road. The circuit supports up to 27 volts DC maximum supply and runs reliably on 18V power schemes, giving you flexibility if you upgrade your bass electronics or swap instruments.

Key Features

Active single-coil design with split-coil architecture
Ceramic magnets with short, squat coils
Housing length: 4 inches (102mm)
Width: 38.1mm (1.50 inches)
Maximum recommended string width: 76.2mm (3.00 inches)
Resonant frequency: 3.20 kHz
Output voltage (finger/thumb): 2.00V
Output voltage (thump): 4.50V
Current draw at 9V: 80 microamps
Battery life: 3000 hours
Maximum supply voltage: 27 volts DC
Compatible with 18V power systems
EMG solderless wiring system included
Black cover finish

The 40P combines extended-range voicing with practical power efficiency, making it a dependable choice for touring and session work on six-string bass.