What makes the EMG 60X different from the EMG 81 or 85?

The 60X sits in the middle of EMG's active voicing spectrum with a balanced, articulate character that blends single-coil clarity with humbucker body, whereas the 81 and 85 are voiced more for high-output aggression. The 60X's 2K DC resistance and tight low end make it more versatile across genres without sacrificing thickness, making it ideal for players who need definition and punch without excessive high-end coloration.

Do I need soldering experience to install this pickup?

No—the EMG 60X uses a solderless quick-connect system where connections snap into included bus bars and potentiometers, eliminating traditional wiring. The package includes all necessary cables, mounting hardware, and a 25K volume pot plus VLPF active tone control, so installation is straightforward for beginners and experienced players alike.

What's the battery requirement and how long does it last?

The pickup runs on a single 9V battery; the exact lifespan depends on playing frequency and amp input impedance, but active pickups typically last several months to a year with regular use. The included battery bus and cable make battery swaps quick and accessible.

Will this pickup fit my guitar's humbucker cavity?

The EMG 60X is designed in covered humbucker format with standard mounting hardware (screws and springs) for most traditional humbucker cavities. If your guitar has a non-standard cavity or routing, verify compatibility before purchasing.

What does the VLPF active tone control do?

The VLPF (Variable Low-Pass Filter) shapes high-frequency content without adding coloration or noise, allowing you to dial in the brightness and clarity you need without compromising the pickup's natural, articulate response. It pairs with the included 25K volume potentiometer for full tonal shaping.

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 60X Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold

The EMG 60X delivers a balanced, articulate voice with the clarity of a single-coil and the body of a full humbucker. This active design sits comfortably in the middle of EMG's voicing spectrum, making it a reliable choice for gigging musicians who need definition without sacrificing thickness on stage. The gold finish adds visual distinction while the compact active circuit operates cleanly on a single 9V battery with minimal power draw.

Tone & Performance

Ceramic magnets and close aperture coils work together to produce a tight, focused output with excellent note separation across the frequency range. The 2K DC resistance characteristic of active pickups yields low noise and consistent output night after night, paired here with a VLPF active tone pot that shapes high-frequency content without coloration—essential for cutting through a mix without harshness.

Installation & Road Reliability

The solderless connectivity system eliminates traditional wiring hassles—connections snap into the included bus bars and pots for straightforward swaps and repairs in the field or shop. A covered design tames electromagnetic interference while maintaining the pickup's natural response, and the included mounting hardware (screws and springs) ensures secure, adjustable positioning in most standard humbucker cavities for reliable gig-to-gig performance.

Key Features

Magnet Type: Ceramic
Coil Design: Close aperture coils
DC Resistance: 2K
Active circuitry powered by 1 × 9V battery
Solderless quick-connect system
2-wire plus battery conductors
Covered humbucker format
Includes 25K volume potentiometer and VLPF active tone control
Battery bus, stereo output jack, and dual pickup in/out bus included
Complete accessory set: pickup cable, two connect cables, output cable, battery cable, mounting hardware
Product Code: EMG-60X-G

The EMG 60X combines EMG's proven active engineering with versatile tonal character and straightforward installation, making it a dependable pickup for players seeking clarity and punch without the hassle of traditional wiring.