Can I use the 89X in both neck and bridge positions?

Yes. The 89X fits standard humbucker routes and is suitable for both neck and bridge positions with 78.5 mm screw spacing.

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

The dual-preamp design lets you toggle between humbucker thickness and high-output aggression on one hand, and single-coil clarity and articulate note definition on the other, all without routing or modification.

What comes in the box?

The complete system includes the pickup, potentiometers, volume and tone controls, battery clip, mounting hardware, and solderless connectors for a finished installation.

How does the 89X compare to the EMG 81?

The 89X offers dual-mode flexibility with both humbucker and single-coil voicings and medium output, whereas the 81 is a fixed high-output humbucker; the 89X suits players who want tonal range without compromising aggression.

Is any routing or modification needed?

No. The 89X fits standard humbucker routes with no modification required, and its solderless connector system streamlines wiring and installation.

Do I pay sales tax on this order?

Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG 89X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

The EMG 89X delivers versatile tonal range from a compact, dual-mode housing that functions as both a humbucker and single-coil pickup. Built with Alnico V magnets and powered by two separate preamps, this pickup bridges aggressive and articulate voicings without requiring routing or modification. The solderless connector system streamlines installation and keeps wiring straightforward.

Design & Build

Measuring 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm with 78.5 mm screw spacing, the 89X fits standard humbucker routes in both neck and bridge positions. Made in the USA, this pickup arrives as a complete system with potentiometers, volume and tone controls, battery clip, and mounting hardware—everything needed for a finished installation.

Tone & Performance

On stage or in the studio, the dual-preamp design lets you toggle between humbucker thickness and single-coil clarity—capture both high-output aggression and articulate note definition in one pickup. Medium output pairs with Alnico V magnets to deliver balanced response across the frequency spectrum, holding up reliably across diverse playing styles and amplifier setups.

Key Features

Alnico V magnets for warm, balanced magnetic response
Dual-mode operation: Humbucker and single-coil in one housing
Two separate active preamps
Medium output level
Solderless connectors for simplified wiring
Suitable for neck and bridge positions
Dimensions: 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm
Mounting screw spacing: 78.5 mm
Includes potentiometers, volume/tone controls, battery clip, and hardware
Black finish
Manufactured in the USA

The 89X combines EMG's active circuitry with genuine tonal switching capability, delivering the flexibility gigging musicians need without compromise.

Best suited for	Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, Gigging
Tonal character	Warm balanced response, high-output aggression, articulate clarity, versatile dual-mode, medium output
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional