What skill level do I need to install the EMG 40P5?

This pickup is suited for intermediate to professional players and techs. The solderless wiring system simplifies installation, and the complete retrofit kit includes all necessary components—volume/tone pots (25k each), battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, and connecting cables—to handle a full electronics replacement on a compatible 5-string bass.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The active circuit draws only 80 microamps at 9V, delivering approximately 3000 hours of battery life—roughly 4–5 months of regular use before replacement. The system also tolerates up to 27V DC for future preamp upgrades without risk.

What are the two output modes, and when would I use each?

The pickup offers 2.00V output for finger/thumb playing (cleaner, controlled dynamics) and 4.50V for thump mode (more aggressive attack and presence). Choose based on your playing style and how much edge you want in your tone on a given session or gig.

How does the EMG 40P5 compare to passive pickups?

As an active design, the EMG 40P5 delivers extended frequency response, tighter lows, and more midrange articulation than typical passive soapbars, with the added benefit of dual output modes. Passive pickups offer simpler wiring but less tonal control and a softer overall character.

What genres and styles is this pickup best suited for?

The EMG 40P5 excels in funk, session work, and contemporary studio and live environments where tight definition and cutting attack are essential. It is not optimized for folk or traditional jazz, where warmer, rounder tones are typically preferred.

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 40P5 5-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

The EMG 40P5 delivers the tight, articulate character that defines active soapbar bass tone. This split coil P bass design pairs responsive dynamics with the controlled output and extended frequency response you get from a purpose-built active system. The compact housing integrates seamlessly into modern 5-string bass designs while maintaining the aggressive midrange attack that session players and working musicians rely on for night-after-night gigging.

Tone & Output Characteristics

A resonant frequency of 3.20 kHz centers the pickup's character in the critical midrange zone, cutting through a live mix without muddiness. The dual output modes—2.00V finger/thumb or 4.50V thump—let you match your rig's preamp sensitivity and control dynamics across varying venues and stage settings, while the 10 kΩ output impedance ensures tight, focused lows and articulate highs across your entire register.

Active Electronics & Reliability on the Road

This active design runs on a single 9V battery with exceptional efficiency: 80 microamps at 9V translates to roughly 3000 hours of battery life between changes—meaning you can tour for months without needing a swap. The system tolerates up to 27V DC maximum supply if you're running higher-voltage preamps, giving your rig headroom for future upgrades without risk of component failure.

Key Features

Split coil P bass design for defined midrange punch
Ceramic magnets for consistent magnetic response
Solderless wiring system for fast, error-free installation
Resonant frequency: 3.20 kHz
Output voltage: 2.00V (finger/thumb) or 4.50V (thump)
Output impedance: 10 kΩ
Current draw: 80 microamps @ 9V
Battery life: 3000 hours
Maximum supply: 27V DC
Housing dimensions: 4" × 1.5" × 0.6" depth
Quick Connect cables included
Complete installation kit: 25k volume pot, 25k tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting screws, pickup cable, connect cables, output cable, and battery cable

The EMG 40P5 combines reliable active circuitry with a classic soapbar form factor and includes everything needed for a complete electronics retrofit on any compatible 5-string bass.