What output voltage does the EMG 57 deliver?

The EMG 57 produces 3.00V per single string and 4.50V on full strums, delivering enough gain to drive amp front ends hard while maintaining dynamic range and keeping a -100 dB noise floor for silent operation at extreme volumes.

How long does the 9V battery last?

Battery life is rated at 1500 hours per charge cycle, and the circuit can tolerate supply voltages up to 27V DC for extended headroom if you upgrade to a higher-voltage system.

Is this pickup easy to install?

Yes—the EMG 57 features a solderless installation system, allowing quick integration into your existing wiring without soldering skills or complexity.

What genres and tunings is this pickup designed for?

The EMG 57 excels in metal, hard rock, progressive, and drop-tuning applications where articulate midrange and controlled sustain are essential; it is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk playing styles.

How does the EMG 57 compare to other active humbuckers?

The EMG 57 shares the active design philosophy with models like the EMG 81, Seymour Duncan JB, and DiMarzio Crunchlab, but its 2.11 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes upper-midrange presence and note separation for a more surgical, articulate character suited to high-gain and modern tones.

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. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. 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 57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold

The EMG 57 delivers the articulate, punchy midrange that sits perfectly in a live mix—aggressive attack paired with controlled sustain that cuts through without muddiness. This bridge-position pickup drives high-gain rigs hard and locks in with surgical clarity when the stage is packed with other instruments. The gold finish adds visual distinction while the solderless installation system gets you wired up and playing in minutes, no soldering iron required.

Tone & Output Characteristics

Built on Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces, the EMG 57 achieves a resonant frequency of 2.11 kHz that emphasizes upper-midrange presence and note separation—critical for stage presence. Output measures 3.00V per string and 4.50V on full strums, enough gain to push your amp's front end hard without losing dynamic feel, while an exceptionally low -100 dB noise floor keeps things silent even at full volume, essential for touring and gig reliability.

Electronics & Power

This active design runs on 9V battery power with 1500-hour battery life per charge cycle, keeping you on stage longer between battery swaps. The circuit tolerates supply voltages up to 27V DC for extended headroom if needed. Output impedance of 10 Kohms ensures stable, consistent signal delivery to any preamp or amplifier input without tone coloration or loading effects—predictable performance night after night.

Key Features

Alnico V magnet with steel pole pieces for focused midrange articulation
Resonant frequency: 2.11 kHz
Output voltage: 3.00V (single string) / 4.50V (full strum)
Output noise: -100 dB at 60 Hz
Output impedance: 10 Kohms
Active circuitry powered by 9V battery
Battery life: 1500 hours
Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
Solderless installation system for quick setup
Available in gold finish
Current draw: 160 microamps at 9V

The EMG 57 is a workhorse for players who demand articulate, high-output performance without noise or installation headaches—proven reliability on stages worldwide.