What's the difference between the EMG 57 and the EMG 81?

The 57 is a moderate-gain voice with articulate, focused tone and crisp high-frequency definition, while the 81 is a high-output powerhouse with more midrange aggression. The 57 works better for classic rock and hard rock where clarity is essential; the 81 excels in metal and hard rock where maximum gain and presence dominate.

Can I use this in both neck and bridge positions?

Yes, the EMG 57 is designed to work in either position depending on your tonal priorities. In the bridge it delivers aggressive articulation; in the neck it stays clear and defined without losing character.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The EMG 57 delivers approximately 1500 hours of battery life on a standard 9V battery, drawing only 160 microamps. That's roughly 60+ days of continuous playing before you need a replacement.

What does solderless installation mean, and is it really reversible?

Solderless installation means the EMG 57 connects via quick-connect terminals—no soldering required. You can remove it completely without modifying your guitar's wiring, making it perfect for testing or swapping pickups between instruments.

Is the EMG 57 suitable for jazz or blues?

The EMG 57's tight, focused character and moderate gain are engineered for rock and metal genres where articulation and clarity shine. Jazz and blues typically benefit from warmer, more open-voiced pickups with fuller midrange response.

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 57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Red

The EMG 57 is a focused, articulate active humbucker that delivers tight low-end response and crisp high-frequency definition without excessive output. Its moderate gain character makes it equally at home in classic rock, hard rock, and modern metal applications where clarity matters as much as aggression. This red-finished unit slots seamlessly into bridge or neck positions depending on your tonal priorities.

Tone & Electronics

Built on Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces, the 57 achieves a 2.11 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes articulation and string definition. Output specs—3.00V string, 4.50V strum—position this pickup as a moderate-gain voice, while -100 dB noise floor and 10 kΩ output impedance ensure clean signal transmission with minimal interference.

Power & Installation

This active design runs on a standard 9V battery with an exceptionally long 1500-hour battery life and draws only 160 microamps at 9V. The pickup accepts supply voltages up to 27V DC for users running higher-voltage systems, and features solderless installation for quick, reversible mounting without permanent modification to your guitar.

Key Features

Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces
Resonant frequency: 2.11 kHz
Output voltage (string): 3.00V
Output voltage (strum): 4.50V
Output noise: -100 dB @ 60 Hz
Output impedance: 10 kΩ
Current draw: 160 microamps @ 9V
Battery life: 1500 hours
Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
9V battery powered
Solderless installation
Red finish

The EMG 57 delivers balanced articulation and controlled gain in a design engineered for stage reliability and straightforward installation.