How do the dual-coil and single-coil modes differ tonally?

Humbucker mode delivers 1.0V RMS output with a 2.55 kHz resonant frequency for aggressive, punchy tone; single-coil mode produces 0.6V RMS at 3.75 kHz for brighter articulation and tonal definition. Both modes run through separate preamps to maintain clean signal integrity independent of each other.

What is the battery life, and how often will I need to replace it?

The 9V battery provides approximately 3,290 hours of runtime at the pickup's 152 microamp draw, translating to roughly 137 days of continuous use. For typical gigging and studio players, battery changes are infrequent.

What is included in the box, and how difficult is installation?

The EMG 89 ships with a Quik-Connect cable, prewired push/pull control set, output jack, and battery clip. The push/pull dual control system integrates into standard guitar wiring configurations, and the Quik-Connect cable simplifies both initial installation and future adjustments.

What genres and playing styles is this pickup suited for?

The 89 excels in metal, progressive, hard rock, and extended-range playing where articulation and output flexibility are essential. It is not optimized for blues, jazz, or folk styles that prioritize warmth and breakup over clarity and punch.

How does the EMG 89 compare to other high-output active pickups?

The 89 competes with models like the Seymour Duncan Nazgul, DiMarzio Dominion, and Fishman Fluence Modern. Its defining strength is the dual-mode switching capability—toggling between full humbucker aggression and single-coil clarity—without sacrificing the low noise floor and separate preamp integrity that serious tracking and live tone demand.

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 White

The EMG 89 delivers the articulate, punchy character of a true active humbucker with exceptional clarity across both dual-coil and single-coil operating modes. This versatile pickup bridges the gap between the high-output aggression of traditional humbuckers and the tonal definition needed for complex playing techniques, making it a solid choice for players who demand flexibility without sacrificing output or definition.

Tone & Electronics

Built on Alnico V magnets and precision-wound, inductively matched coils, the 89 produces distinct sonic characters depending on mode: humbucker mode delivers 1.0V RMS output with a 2.55 kHz resonant frequency, while single-coil mode yields 0.6V RMS with a 3.75 kHz resonant frequency, offering brighter articulation when needed. Each mode runs through separate preamps with custom-tailored outputs, ensuring clean signal integrity and minimal noise floor at -99 dBV in humbucker mode and -94 dBV in single-coil mode.

Design & Installation

The dual push/pull volume and tone control system integrates seamlessly into most guitar wiring configurations, and the included Quik-Connect cable simplifies installation and future adjustments. Long battery life of approximately 3,290 hours at 152 microamps draw means minimal maintenance interruptions during regular use.

Key Features

Dual-coil and single-coil operating modes via push/pull control
Separate preamps providing independent outputs for each mode
Alnico V magnet construction
Precision-wound, resistively and inductively matched coils with vacuum sealing
Humbucker mode: 1.0V RMS output, 3.0V peak, 2.55 kHz resonant frequency
Single-coil mode: 0.6V RMS output, 1.7V peak, 3.75 kHz resonant frequency
Output impedance of 10 kOhms
Powered by 9V battery with 3,290-hour runtime at 152 microamps
Includes Quik-Connect cable, prewired push/pull control set, output jack, and battery clip
Product dimensions: 2.63 x 2.38 x 6 inches

The EMG 89 combines versatile switching capability with low noise and extended battery life, making it a reliable workhorse for stage and studio applications where tonal flexibility demands performance you can count on.