What's the difference between the HAX and passive single-coil pickups?

The HAX combines single-coil tone character with active X preamp circuitry, which extends frequency response, eliminates passive noise floor limitations, and adds real-time dynamic control via the 25k volume and active tone potentiometers. Passive single-coils deliver classic tone but lack this electronic precision and tonal sculpting range.

Do I need to solder to install the HAX?

No—the HAX uses solderless architecture with included pickup cable, connect cables, and output cable, plus mounting screws and springs. Installation is straightforward on most modern instruments without traditional wiring work.

What genres and playing styles is the HAX best suited for?

The HAX excels in studio sessions, home recording, dynamic lead playing, and extended-range work where articulation and crisp attack are priorities. It is not optimized for traditional jazz or folk styles that rely on warm, dark single-coil character.

What does the stereo output jack and dual-signal operation do?

The stereo output jack enables two-signal operation via the two-pickup in/out bus configuration, allowing you to send distinct dry and processed signals or split tonal character between channels for advanced mixing and effects integration in the studio or live rig.

What's included in the box?

The complete accessory kit includes the pickup itself, 25k volume potentiometer, active tone potentiometer with VLPF, pickup cable, connect cables, output cable, stereo output jack, mounting screws, springs, battery bus, and battery cable.

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 HAX Active Single Coil Pickup in Chrome

The EMG HAX delivers articulate single-coil clarity in a humbucker-sized format, combining vintage responsiveness with modern active electronics. This pickup excels for players seeking dynamic control and extended frequency range without sacrificing the crisp, cutting character that defines single-coil tone. The solderless installation and included preamp system make integration straightforward across most modern instruments.

Design & Build Quality

Housed in a chrome humbucker casing, the HAX features a single-coil design paired with an Alnico magnet for responsive pickup and natural decay. The solderless architecture eliminates traditional wiring complexity, and the included mounting hardware—screws and springs—ensures stable installation and easy height adjustment for optimal tonal balance on stage or in the studio.

Active Electronics & Features

Built-in X preamp circuitry provides real-time dynamic control and extends frequency response well beyond passive designs, giving you the articulation needed to cut through a live mix. The system includes a 25k volume potentiometer, active tone potentiometer with VLPF (Very Low Pass Filter) function, and stereo output jack for dual-signal operation, enabling precise tonal sculpting from bright attack to smooth roll-off—essential for dialing in your sound quickly across different venues.

Key Features

Single-coil pickup in humbucker housing format
Alnico magnet construction
X active preamp system with dynamic control
Solderless installation design
25k volume potentiometer included
Active tone potentiometer with VLPF (Very Low Pass Filter)
Stereo output jack for dual-signal output
Two-pickup in/out bus configuration
Battery bus and battery cable included
Complete accessory kit: pickup cable, connect cables, and output cable
Mounting screws and springs supplied

The EMG HAX balances single-coil character with active precision, delivering the articulation and tonal flexibility that gigging musicians depend on for reliable, cutting performance night after night.