What is the maximum string width this pickup can accommodate?

The EMG 45CS is recommended for a maximum string width of 92.0mm (3.62 inches), which suits most standard six-string bass configurations.

Does this pickup require soldering to install?

No. The EMG 45CS includes solderless wiring and pots, allowing quick installation, swaps, or troubleshooting without soldering.

What is the output difference between normal playing and slap?

During finger or thumb playing, the pickup produces 2.00V output; during aggressive thumping or slap techniques, it delivers 6.00V output, giving you dynamic range without mud or distortion.

How long does a battery last with this pickup?

The EMG 45CS delivers approximately 1000 hours of battery life under normal use, operating efficiently at 9V (230 microamps current draw) and supporting up to 27V DC maximum for flexibility.

Is this pickup good for traditional jazz or folk music?

The EMG 45CS is optimized for funk, slap bass, and studio sessions with its articulate midrange punch and high output on demand. It is not designed for the warm, rounded tone typical of traditional jazz or folk bass playing.

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 45CS 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup in Black

The EMG 45CS is a compact active soapbar engineered for six-string bass applications where tight spacing and rock-solid output consistency are non-negotiable. Its ceramic and steel magnet construction delivers articulate midrange punch with low noise, giving you the predictable performance you need whether you're laying down finger work, thumbing hard, or going aggressive on the slap.

Output & Response

This pickup produces 2.00V output under normal finger or thumb playing and 6.00V output during aggressive thumping, giving you dynamic range without mud or distortion. The 3.38 kHz resonant frequency and 10 kΩ output impedance work together to preserve clarity and transient definition—critical for six-string bass articulation on stage.

Installation & Powering

The EMG 45CS includes solderless wiring and pots, eliminating typical installation hassles and allowing quick swaps or troubleshooting on the road. Designed for 18 Volt power supply, it operates efficiently at 230 microamps at 9V and supports up to 27V DC maximum, delivering approximately 1000 hours of battery life under normal use—plenty of shows between changes.

Key Features

Soapbar form factor; 114.3mm (4.50") length × 38.1mm (1.50") width
Maximum recommended string width: 92.0mm (3.62")
Ceramic and steel magnets with dual-coil design
Active electronics with solderless wiring harness included
2.00V output (finger/thumb playing)
6.00V output (aggressive thumping)
10 kΩ output impedance
18 Volt recommended power supply
27V DC maximum supply voltage
230 microamps current draw at 9V
~1000 hours battery life
3.38 kHz resonant frequency
Black finish

The 45CS combines tight dimensions with robust active electronics and straightforward installation, making it a trusted upgrade for six-string bass players who demand cleaner output and reliable battery intervals night after night.