What's the noise floor, and does it matter for recording?

The EMG 60 delivers -89dBV output noise at 60Hz—that's studio-grade signal cleanliness, meaning minimal hum and hiss during tracking and mixing. You'll hear the difference most in high-gain tones and in layers of multiple guitar passes.

How long does a 9V battery last, and how often will I need to swap it?

A single 9V battery provides 3,000 hours of playing time, roughly 125 days of continuous use or several months of regular gigging or session work. The solderless Quik-connect cable makes swaps quick and painless.

Is the EMG 60 good for both lead and rhythm, or should I pair it with something else?

The EMG 60 is voiced as a balanced articulate humbucker that handles both lead and rhythm equally well. Its conservative output and focused midrange work across modern and classic designs, though some players pair it with a hotter pickup like an 81 in the bridge for extra aggression.

How difficult is installation, and what's included?

Installation is straightforward thanks to solderless connectivity and the included Quik-connect cable, pre-wired control set, output jack, and battery clip. No soldering required—standard guitar electronics and amp inputs integrate seamlessly.

What genres or tones is the EMG 60 NOT suited for?

The EMG 60 is not designed for traditional jazz tones or acoustic-focused sounds. Its active circuitry and articulate character are optimized for studio sessions, modern rock, metal, and classic designs that benefit from clarity and definition.

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 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

The EMG 60 delivers the articulate, tight response that defined active pickup design. Built for players who demand clarity without sacrificing punch, its ceramic magnet construction and conservative output strike a balance between definition and aggression—equally reliable in lead lines and driving rhythm work on stage or in the studio. The brushed black chrome finish provides a refined aesthetic that complements modern and classic guitar designs alike.

Electronics & Output Character

With a 10K DC resistance and 2.95kHz resonant frequency, the EMG 60 produces a focused midrange presence and controlled treble response that cuts through a live mix without muddiness. The -89dBV noise floor ensures studio-grade signal cleanliness for recording and performance, while 10kOhms output impedance integrates seamlessly with standard guitar electronics and amp inputs across any rig setup.

Power & Installation

This active design runs on a single 9V battery with an impressive 3,000-hour battery life, keeping you gig-ready with minimal battery swaps. The solderless connectivity and included Quik-connect cable streamline installation for faster setup and swap-outs on the road, and the maximum 27V DC supply rating accommodates both standard and boosted power scenarios for future flexibility.

Key Features

Active humbucker with ceramic magnet
10K DC resistance for focused, articulate tone
2.95kHz resonant frequency
-89dBV output noise at 60Hz
10kOhms output impedance
80 microamps current draw at 9V
3,000-hour battery life per 9V cell
27V DC maximum supply rating
Solderless connectivity
Covered humbucker format with standard string spacing
Includes Quik-connect cable, pre-wired control set, output jack, and battery clip

The EMG 60 combines low-noise active circuitry with practical installation features and robust battery performance, delivering professional-grade pickup reliability for working musicians.

Best suited for	Studio Sessions, Home Recording, Lead and rhythm playing, Modern and classic designs
Tonal character	Articulate, tight low end, focused midrange, controlled treble, balanced clarity and aggression
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Acoustic-focused tones (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced / Professional