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

The push/pull control switches between two separate preamps in the reverse-wound coil design. Humbucker mode delivers 1.0V RMS output with a 2.55 kHz resonant peak and –99 dBV noise floor, while single-coil mode produces 0.6V RMS output with a 3.75 kHz peak and –94 dBV noise floor for brighter, thinner tones.

How long does the battery last?

The 9-volt battery draws only 152 microamps, providing approximately 3,290 hours of playing time—roughly 4.5 months of continuous use or well over a year of normal gigging.

Is this pickup suitable for neck and bridge positions?

Yes, the EMG 89R is designed for both bridge and neck positions, making it versatile for single-pickup upgrades or full-guitar rewires.

What's included in the box?

The package includes the pickup, Quik-Connect cable, pre-wired push/pull volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, mounting screws, and springs for immediate installation.

How difficult is the installation?

The solderless 5-wire-plus-ground architecture and pre-wired control set simplify setup significantly; no soldering is required, and the Quik-Connect system speeds up the wiring process.

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 89R Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory

The EMG 89R is a versatile active humbucker engineered to deliver articulate single-coil clarity and full humbucker punch from a single housing. Its reverse-wound coil design with separate preamps grants instant access to both tonal characters via a push/pull control, making it equally capable in bridge or neck position across various playing styles and venues.

Tone & Electronics

This active design operates on a standard 9-volt battery, drawing just 152 microamps for exceptional battery life of approximately 3,290 hours—critical for reliable stage performance and touring musicians. The 89R excels at noise rejection: humbucker mode produces –99 dBV of noise with a resonant frequency of 2.55 kHz, while single-coil mode sits at –94 dBV with a 3.75 kHz peak, delivering clean fundamentals across both configurations without feedback or hum under stage lights and wireless systems.

Output & Connectivity

Output levels are balanced for seamless integration with any pedalboard or amp: 1.0V RMS (3.0V peak) in humbucker mode and 0.6V RMS (1.7V peak) in single-coil mode, with a DC resistance of 10K ohms. The solderless 5-wire-plus-ground architecture simplifies installation and roadside repairs, while the included Quik-Connect cable and pre-wired push/pull volume/tone control set accelerate setup without requiring a soldering iron.

Key Features

Active powered design requiring 9-volt battery
Alnico V magnets for warm, resonant response
Reverse-wound coils with separate preamps for dual single-coil and humbucker modes
Humbucker mode: 1.0V RMS output, 2.55 kHz resonant frequency, –99 dBV noise floor
Single-coil mode: 0.6V RMS output, 3.75 kHz resonant frequency, –94 dBV noise floor
152 microamp current draw with 3,290-hour battery life at 9V
10K DC resistance
Solderless 5-wire-plus-ground connection
Ivory covered finish
Suitable for bridge and neck positions
Includes Quik-Connect cable, pre-wired push/pull control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs

The EMG 89R combines the tonal flexibility of switchable single-coil and humbucker modes with the low-noise performance and dependable battery endurance expected from professional active electronics on the road.