What does the 'GTV' stand for and who designed these pickups?

GTV stands for Glenn Tipton Vengeance — this is Glenn Tipton's signature active humbucker set designed specifically for high-gain metal applications. Tipton is known for his precision heavy riffing and lead work, and the pickups are voiced to deliver the articulate, controlled sustain he demands.

Do I need to solder or use special tools to install these pickups?

No. The EMG solderless installation system allows you to swap these pickups without desoldering or specialized wiring skills. The complete package includes two volume pots, two tone pots, battery bus, stereo output jack, cables, and all mounting hardware — everything you need for a full retrofit.

How long does the 9V battery last and how often will I need to replace it?

The active circuitry delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life per 9V charge before replacement is needed. For regular gigging and recording, that typically translates to several months of typical use between battery changes.

What genres and playing styles are these pickups best suited for?

The GTV set is optimized for metal, hard rock, thrash metal, and high-gain lead work where aggressive tone, immediate clarity, and tight definition are priorities. They are not voiced for jazz, blues, or folk applications.

What is included in the package and do I need to buy additional parts?

The complete set includes two active humbuckers (bridge and neck), two 25k volume pots, two 25k tone pots, battery bus, stereo output jack, dual pickup connectors, cables, mounting hardware, and springs. No additional components are required for a full retrofit 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. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $16 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG GTV Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Red

The EMG GTV (Glenn Tipton Vengeance) active humbucker set delivers the aggressive, articulate tone Glenn Tipton designed for high-gain metal applications. On stage, these pickups respond with immediate clarity and controlled sustain, cutting through the mix with precision during heavy riffing and lead work. The red finish integrates seamlessly into dark instrument aesthetics while the active electronics ensure consistent output across all playing dynamics—essential for reliable live performance.

Electronics & Power

Active circuitry powered by a standard 9V battery provides approximately 3000 hours of battery life before replacement is needed. The solderless installation system simplifies wiring, allowing for quick swaps without requiring desoldering work or specialized skills—crucial for gigging musicians who need reliable, field-serviceable gear.

Hardware & Installation

The complete package includes everything required for a full retrofit: two 25k volume pots, two 25k tone pots, battery bus, stereo output jack, dual pickup in/out bus connectors, mounting hardware, and all necessary cables. This comprehensive component set minimizes sourcing additional parts during installation, reducing downtime between gigs.

Key Features

Active humbucker design optimized for high-gain applications
Bridge and neck position set configuration
Ceramic and steel magnet construction
9V battery power source
Approximately 3000 hours battery life per charge
Two 25k volume potentiometers included
Two 25k tone potentiometers included
EMG solderless installation system for tool-free wiring
United States manufacture
Complete cable and connector kit supplied
Red finish option
Mounting screws and springs included

The GTV set combines proven active pickup technology with straightforward installation and a full accessory package, making it a direct upgrade path for players transitioning from passive pickups to active systems—and a trusted choice for touring musicians who need dependable tone night after night.

Best suited for	Metal, Hard Rock, Thrash Metal, High-Gain Lead Work
Tonal character	Aggressive, articulate, controlled sustain, high-output, immediate clarity
Less specialized for	Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional