EMG 40PX 6-String Active Soapbar 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
- EMG3749
Description
EMG 40PX 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 40PX delivers responsive, articulate output with extended dynamic range across a six-string extended-range bass. Its treble magnet positioning closer to the neck preserves clarity and definition in the upper register, while the active X Series preamp responds directly to touch dynamics—from fingerstyle precision to aggressive thumbing. Built for bass players who demand control over their tone and the bandwidth to support modern extended-range playing.
Tone & Electronics
Built around ceramic magnets and tuned to a 3.20 kHz resonant frequency, the 40PX balances punch and articulation without sacrificing clarity. The included active tone pot (VLPF) and 25k volume control provide real-time shaping, while output voltages of 2.00V (finger/thumb) and 4.50V (thump) ensure consistent gain structure across playing techniques.
Design & Installation
The extended-range soapbar housing spans 4 inches in length and accommodates string widths up to 3.25 inches, fitting most modern six-string bass designs. Quick Connectors eliminate soldering, and the included battery bus, stereo output jack, cables, and mounting hardware make installation straightforward for active-equipped instruments.
Key Features
- Extended range soapbar housing with treble magnet closer to neck
- Ceramic magnet construction
- Active X Series preamp with increased touch sensitivity and dynamic range
- 3.20 kHz resonant frequency
- Output voltage 2.00V (finger/thumb) / 4.50V (thump)
- Maximum string width 3.25 inches
- Housing length 4 inches (102mm); width 38.1mm (1.50")
- Quick Connectors solderless installation system
- Includes 25k volume pot, 25k active tone pot (VLPF), battery bus, stereo output jack, pickup cable, connect cables, output cable, battery cable, and mounting screws
- Black cover
The 40PX pairs aggressive tonal control with flexible installation, making it a direct upgrade for extended-range bass players who prioritize responsiveness and articulation.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 40PX is an active soapbar pickup built for six-string extended-range bass, delivering punchy, articulate tone with responsive touch dynamics from fingerstyle to aggressive thumbing. It pairs ceramic magnets with an active preamp that reacts directly to your playing technique, giving you real-time control over your sound on stage and in the studio. Choose it if you demand clarity, extended bandwidth, and consistent gain structure across modern bass playing styles.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Extended Range, Studio Sessions, Home Recording, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate, punchy, extended dynamic range, clear upper register, responsive to touch |
| Less specialized for | Beginners, Traditional Jazz (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is the 40PX suited for?
The 40PX is designed for intermediate, advanced, and professional bass players. Its responsive preamp and touch-sensitive dynamics reward controlled technique and are not recommended for beginners or players seeking traditional jazz tones.
Will this pickup fit my six-string bass?
The extended-range soapbar housing is 4 inches long and 1.50 inches wide, accommodating string widths up to 3.25 inches. It fits most modern six-string bass designs; measure your current pickup bay to confirm compatibility.
What's included in the box, and do I need to solder?
The 40PX includes a 25k volume pot, 25k active tone pot (VLPF), battery bus, stereo output jack, pickup cable, connect cables, output cable, battery cable, and mounting hardware. Quick Connectors eliminate soldering, making installation straightforward for active-equipped instruments.
How does the active preamp respond to different playing techniques?
The active X Series preamp is tuned to respond directly to touch dynamics, producing 2.00V output for fingerstyle and thumb playing, and 4.50V for aggressive thump or slap. This dual-voltage design ensures consistent gain structure and lets you shape tone in real time with the included active tone pot.
How does the 40PX compare to passive pickups?
Unlike passive pickups, the 40PX uses active electronics with a 3.20 kHz resonant frequency optimized for punch and articulation without sacrificing clarity. Its ceramic magnets and active preamp deliver extended dynamic range and responsive touch sensitivity, making it better suited for modern playing styles and studio tracking than traditional passive designs.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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