Is the EMG 66-8 a neck or bridge pickup, and what does it pair with?

The EMG 66-8 is a neck pickup for 8-string instruments. It pairs with EMG's bridge models for extended-range instruments; consult EMG's 8-string lineup to match a bridge pickup that complements your tonal goals.

What comes in the box, and do I need to solder?

The pickup includes a 25k volume pot, 25k tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, two-pickup in/out bus, complete cable set, and mounting hardware. EMG's solderless system eliminates traditional wiring, so installation requires no soldering.

How does the EMG 66-8 handle drop tunings and low-end response?

The Alnico V magnets and ceramic pole pieces maintain clarity and definition across all eight strings, even in extended-range and drop-tuned applications. The expansive low-end response keeps lower strings articulate and punchy without loss of definition.

Will this pickup work for jazz or acoustic folk styles?

The EMG 66-8 is optimized for metal, progressive, and modern extended-range applications. Its warm, saturated character and active electronics are not designed for jazz or acoustic folk styles, which typically call for different pickup voicings.

What are the physical dimensions, and will it fit my 8-string guitar?

The extended series soapbar measures 4 x 1.5 inches and is configured specifically for 8-string instruments. Confirm your guitar's pickup cavity dimensions before purchase to ensure proper fit.

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 66-8 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black

The EMG 66-8 is a purpose-built neck pickup for 8-string instruments, engineered to deliver warm, articulate tones across extended range applications. This active soapbar design combines Alnico V magnets with ceramic pole pieces to maintain clarity and definition even on lower strings, making it a reliable choice for players working with modern extended-range tunings.

Tone & Electronics

Warm, smooth mid-range character paired with expansive low-end response defines this pickup's sonic profile. The upper register remains clear and present, preventing mud even in heavily saturated signal chains—essential for 8-string work where string density can obscure articulation.

Design & Build

The extended series soapbar design measures 4 x 1.5 inches and integrates Alnico V magnets with ceramic pole pieces for consistent magnetic field behavior across eight strings. Installation relies on EMG's solderless system, eliminating traditional wiring complexity and allowing rapid integration into your instrument.

Key Features

8-string configuration for extended-range instruments
Active soapbar design with Alnico V magnets and ceramic pole pieces
Extended series housing dimensions: 4 x 1.5 inches
Warm, smooth mid-range with expansive low-end response
Upper register clarity and definition
Solderless installation system for hassle-free setup
Includes 25k volume pot, 25k tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, and two-pickup in/out bus
Complete cable and mounting hardware package included

The EMG 66-8 delivers the tonal balance and practical features required for serious 8-string applications, with proven active electronics and straightforward installation.