What is the difference between the humbucker and single-coil modes on the 89X?

The dual preamps with separate coils switch between thick humbucker warmth with full body and snappy single-coil snap for definition and cut. Both voicings emerge from the same pickup, so you choose your character without swapping hardware.

Is the long shaft design compatible with my guitar?

The long shaft (18.7mm potentiometer) design works with standard potentiometers found on most guitars. Dimensions are 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm with 78.5 mm mounting-screw spacing, which fit standard humbucker cavities; confirm your guitar's cavity and pot diameter before ordering.

What skill level do I need to install the 89X?

Intermediate to advanced wiring ability is recommended. Solderless connectors simplify the process, and all components (volume/tone controls, jack, battery clip, screws, springs) are included, but you will need to route the battery and connect the preamp circuit to your guitar's electronics.

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

Yes, the 89X is designed for either position and maintains its medium output and articulate character in both, making it flexible for extended-range tunings and multi-pickup setups.

What genres is the 89X best suited for?

It excels in studio sessions, gigging, and extended-range playing across heavy and articulate styles. It is not optimized for folk or jazz applications.

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 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

The EMG 89X is a versatile active humbucker built for players who want real tonal flexibility without the hassle of swapping pickups. Its dual-preamp architecture switches seamlessly between humbucker and single-coil voicings, letting you run it in bridge or neck position and still get the character you're after. The long shaft design works with standard potentiometers, making installation straightforward on most guitars without custom wiring headaches.

Tone & Electronics

Built around Alnico V magnets and a revised internal preamp, this pickup delivers medium output with clear articulation and controlled dynamics that cut through a live mix without drowning everything else out. The dual preamps with separate coils give you genuine tonal separation—thick humbucker warmth when you need punch and presence, or snappy single-coil snap for definition and cut when the stage demands clarity.

Design & Installation

The long shaft (18.7mm potentiometer) configuration pairs with solderless connectors to streamline wiring and get you playing faster. Dimensions of 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm and a mounting screw spacing of 78.5 mm fit standard humbucker cavities without modification. All components—volume and tone controls, jack, battery clip, screws, and springs—arrive ready for installation.

Key Features

Active pickup with revised built-in preamp
Dual preamps with separate coils for humbucker and single-coil modes
Alnico V magnets
Long shaft design for 18.7mm potentiometers
Medium output level
Suitable for bridge and neck positions
Dimensions: 69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm
Mounting screw spacing: 78.5 mm
Solderless connectors
Includes volume/tone controls, jack, battery clip, screws, and springs
Made in the USA

The EMG 89X combines American manufacturing, dual-voice flexibility, and straightforward installation into a pickup that works for your rig rather than demanding it bend to the pickup's rules.

Best suited for	Studio Sessions, Gigging, Extended Range
Tonal character	Medium output, clear articulation, controlled dynamics, thick humbucker warmth, snappy single-coil snap
Less specialized for	Folk, Jazz (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional