What's the difference between single-coil and humbucker mode on the 89?

Single-coil mode uses an Alnico-loaded stacked EMG-SA for clarity and articulation (0.6V RMS output, 3.75 kHz resonant frequency), while humbucker mode engages dual coils for fuller punch (1.0V RMS output, 2.55 kHz resonant frequency). Both modes are accessible via a separate toggle or push/pull switch without physically swapping pickups.

How long does the battery last, and what's the noise floor like?

The 89 draws only 152 microamps at 9V, giving you approximately 3,290 hours of battery life before replacement. Noise floor is -99 dBV in humbucker mode and -94 dBV in single-coil mode, thanks to the integral preamp design that virtually eliminates hum and hiss.

What comes in the box, and is it ready to install?

The pickup ships with an EMG Quik-Connect cable, a prewired push/pull volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs. It's a complete wired system designed for straightforward installation into compatible guitars.

Is the 89 suitable for jazz or acoustic folk?

No, the 89 is optimized for high-gain rock, metal, progressive, and studio applications where its dual-mode active character and low noise floor shine. It's not designed or recommended for traditional jazz or acoustic folk contexts.

How does the 89 compare to other active pickups like the EMG 85?

The 89 adds dual-mode flexibility (single-coil and humbucker switching) over the standard 85's fixed dual-coil design, giving you tonal range within one pickup. Both deliver active quiet performance, but the 89 suits players who want articulation and punch without physically changing hardware.

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 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Red

The EMG 89 delivers versatile tonal range in a compact, road-tested form factor. This dual-mode active pickup combines the clarity of single-coil articulation with the punch of full humbucker output, making it equally at home in high-gain rigs and cleaner applications. The integral preamp and Alnico V magnets ensure consistent performance with minimal noise floor.

Dual-Mode Flexibility

The 89 features both single-coil and humbucker modes with separate outputs—the single-coil side uses an Alnico-loaded stacked EMG-SA, while dual-coil mode engages two Alnico-loaded coils. This switching capability lets you shape tone on the fly during soundcheck or mid-set without swapping pickups or resorting to parallel wiring tricks.

Active Electronics & Noise Floor

The integral preamp virtually eliminates hum and noise while maintaining tight output control across gain settings. Operating at only 152 microamps @ 9V with an exceptional 3,290-hour battery life, the 89 demands minimal maintenance and delivers low output noise of -99 dBV in humbucker mode and -94 dBV in single-coil mode—critical for stage reliability and cutting through the mix without interference.

Key Features

Magnet Type: Alnico V
Output Impedance: 10 kOhms
Single-Coil Mode Resonant Frequency: 3.75 kHz
Single-Coil Mode RMS Output: 0.6V; Peak Output: 1.7V
Humbucker Mode Resonant Frequency: 2.55 kHz
Humbucker Mode RMS Output: 1.0V; Peak Output: 3.0V
Current Draw @ 9V: 152 microamps
Battery Life: 3,290 hours
Includes EMG Quik-Connect cable, prewired push/pull volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs
Material: Synthetic
Dimensions: 4.8 x 3.4 x 2.3 inches
Integral preamp design for hum elimination and consistent performance

The EMG 89 combines versatile dual-mode operation with professional-grade active electronics and extended battery life, making it a dependable choice for touring musicians and session players demanding both tonal range and quiet, stable performance night after night.