What does reverse-magnet configuration mean, and why does it matter?

The treble magnet is positioned toward the bridge instead of the neck, which provides controlled upper-midrange response and extended-range clarity. This orientation helps maintain articulate highs without sacrificing EMG's signature punchy low-end character, making it ideal for modern 6-string bass work.

Is this pickup suitable for drop tunings and extended-range playing?

Yes. The 45PX-RC is designed specifically for extended-range instruments with ceramic magnets and short, squat coils that maintain tight string definition across all six strings, even in lower tunings.

What's included in the box, and how difficult is installation?

The package includes the pickup, 25k volume and active tone pots, mounting screws, and a complete wiring bundle (pickup cable, connect cables, output cable, battery cable). The solderless wiring system eliminates soldering work—everything connects via pluggable cables and arrives pre-configured for immediate installation.

How does the active preamp affect my playing dynamics?

The integrated X Series preamp increases touch sensitivity and dynamic range, allowing subtle playing dynamics to cut through in a mix or live setting. This makes your playing expressiveness more noticeable without sacrificing the focused low-end punch.

What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?

The 45PX-RC excels in studio sessions, gigging, extended-range, and drop-tuning contexts. It is not optimized for traditional jazz or acoustic folk applications.

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.

EMG 45PX-RC 6-String Active Soapbar Bass Pickup

The EMG 45PX-RC delivers articulate, punchy lows with responsive dynamics in a compact soapbar format designed for modern 6-string bass rigs. This reverse-configuration pickup positions the treble magnet toward the bridge, offering extended range clarity without sacrificing the focused low-end character EMG is known for. The active preamp integration and solderless wiring system make this a straightforward drop-in replacement for players upgrading their electronics.

Design & Construction

Built with ceramic magnets and short, squat coils optimized for extended-range instruments, the 45PX-RC maintains tight string definition across all six strings. The reverse magnet orientation—treble magnet positioned at the bridge rather than the neck—provides controlled highs and a more articulate upper-midrange response without losing the signature EMG punch in the fundamentals.

Electronics & Installation

The integrated X Series preamp increases touch sensitivity and dynamic range, allowing subtle playing dynamics to cut through in a mix. The solderless wiring system eliminates complex soldering work; everything connects via pluggable cables, and all necessary components arrive pre-configured for immediate installation.

Key Features

Extended-range soapbar housing with reverse magnet configuration (treble magnet at bridge)
Housing length: 4.5 inches (115mm)
Width: 38.1mm (1.50")
Maximum string spacing: 3.75"
Ceramic magnets with short, squat coils
Active X Series preamp for increased touch sensitivity and dynamic range
Solderless wiring system for tool-free installation
Includes 25k volume pot and 25k active tone pot (VLPF)
Battery bus and stereo output jack configuration
Complete wiring bundle: pickup cable, connect cables, output cable, and battery cable
Mounting screws included

The 45PX-RC combines EMG's proven active electronics with reverse-magnet positioning to deliver clarity, punch, and responsive dynamics across the full six-string spectrum.

Best suited for	Extended Range, Studio Sessions, Gigging, Drop Tunings
Tonal character	Articulate highs, punchy lows, tight low end, responsive dynamics, focused fundamentals
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Acoustic Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional