What makes the EMG 57 different from the EMG 81?

The 57 has a lower resonant frequency (2.11 kHz) and slightly lower output than the 81, giving it more upper-midrange articulation and string definition rather than raw power. Both are active humbuckers with solderless installation, but the 57 sits between vintage character and modern performance, while the 81 is voiced more aggressively for maximum output and low-end punch.

Is this pickup good for styles outside metal and hard rock?

The EMG 57 is optimized for metal, hard rock, studio sessions, and live performance with high-gain settings. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk, where its tight low end, upper-midrange peak, and active character do not align with those genres' tonal expectations.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The battery yields approximately 1500 hours of typical playable time, translating to months of regular use before replacement. The solderless harness design makes battery swaps quick and simple.

Can I coil-split or series/parallel this pickup?

Yes; the four-conductor wiring supports flexible coil-split and series/parallel configurations if your guitar's electronics accommodate those options. You will need to wire a suitable switch to enable these modes.

What's included, and is soldering required?

The pickup comes with the solderless wiring harness, so no soldering is necessary for basic installation. If you are adding coil-split or custom switching, you may need additional wiring work depending on your guitar's configuration.

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 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Red

The EMG 57 is a workhorse active humbucker that delivers articulate, controlled output with minimal noise—essential for players who demand clarity and consistency across high-gain and moderate settings. This red-finished unit combines classic EMG reliability with the solderless installation system, making it a straightforward retrofit for most guitar configurations. Built on proven Alnico V magnets and steel pole pieces, it bridges the gap between vintage character and modern active performance.

Tone & Electronics

The 57 achieves a 2.11 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes upper-midrange definition and string articulation, cutting through a dense mix without muddiness. String output peaks at 4.50V (strum mode) with -100 dB noise floor, ensuring clarity even under high gain without unwanted hum—a critical advantage in live and studio settings where background noise compounds and compromises your tone.

Installation & Power

The solderless wiring harness simplifies installation for players confident with basic electronics work, while four-conductor wiring enables flexible coil-split and series/parallel configurations if desired. A single 9V battery powers the preamp stage, yielding approximately 1500 hours of playable battery life and supporting supply voltages up to 27V DC for users who prefer higher-voltage biasing.

Key Features

Alnico V magnets paired with steel pole pieces for focused, defined response
Active preamp design requiring 9V battery power
Output voltage (strum): 4.50V
Output voltage (string): 3.00V
Output noise: -100 dB at 60 Hz
Resonant frequency: 2.11 kHz
Output impedance: 10 kΩ
Current draw: 160 microamps @ 9V
Battery life: 1500 hours typical
Maximum supply: 27 Volts DC
Four-conductor wiring for coil-split compatibility
Solderless installation system

This pickup excels in tight, high-output applications where players refuse to compromise on signal integrity or accept noise as an acceptable trade-off.