EMG HB Active Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG57
Description
EMG HB Active Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG HB combines the aggressive presence of a guitar humbucker with the focused low-end authority of a P-style bass pickup, delivering a hybrid character that cuts through dense mixes. Its compact 69.8mm × 38.1mm footprint integrates cleanly into most bass configurations, while the active preamp architecture ensures consistent output with minimal noise floor—critical for live rigs where signal integrity directly affects your mix position and front-of-house clarity.
Active Electronics & Power
This pickup runs on a single 9-volt battery with exceptionally efficient current draw of just 80 microamps, yielding approximately 3000 hours of battery life between changes—meaning reliable operation through extended tours and sessions without worrying about unexpected signal loss. The -106 dB output noise floor at 60 Hz means hum and environmental interference stay inaudible even in heavily shielded or electromagnetic-heavy venues, while the 10 kohm output impedance maintains tight interfacing with standard bass electronics.
Tone & Output Character
The ceramic/steel blended magnet and split-coil P-style construction generate a 2.00V string response and 4.50V strum peak, grounding the sound in the midrange while preserving articulate treble detail for stage presence and definition. A 3.20 KHz resonant frequency positions the pickup's presence peak in the critical vocal and articulation zone, ensuring your bass cuts through in live mix contexts whether playing slap, fingerstyle, or pick work.
Key Features
- P-style bass pickup in guitar humbucking housing
- Active pickup with internal preamp for noise reduction
- Ceramic/steel blended magnet
- Split-coil P-style construction design
- Dimensions: 69.8mm (2.75") length × 38.1mm (1.50") width
- Maximum recommended string width: 53.34mm (2.10")
- Powered by 9-volt battery; 80 microamps current draw
- Battery life: approximately 3000 hours
- Output voltage: 2.00V (string), 4.50V (strum)
- Output noise: -106 dB at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 kohm
- Maximum supply: 27 volts DC; wired to 25k pots
The EMG HB delivers professional-grade active tone with the reliability and low-maintenance operation active pickups are known for, making it a dependable upgrade for bass rigs that demand defined articulation and silent operation in any live or studio setting.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG HB is an active humbucker bass pickup that merges guitar-style presence with P-bass low-end punch, delivering articulate treble and tight midrange clarity that cuts through live mixes without noise. Built for intermediate to pro players performing funk, studio sessions, and gigging work, its compact footprint and silent 9-volt active architecture make it reliable under stage lights and in the studio. Choose it for aggressive definition, minimal hum, and consistent output that keeps your tone defined whether you're slapping or fingerstyle playing.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Funk, Studio Sessions, Live Performance, Gigging |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Aggressive presence, focused low end, articulate treble, tight midrange, silent operation |
| Less specialized for | Folk, Worship (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG HB excels in funk, studio sessions, and live gigging. Its aggressive presence and articulate treble work equally well for slap, fingerstyle, or pick playing, though it is not recommended for folk or worship music.
How long does the 9-volt battery last?
The battery provides approximately 3000 hours of playing time between changes, thanks to its exceptionally efficient 80 microamp current draw.
Will this pickup fit my bass, and what is the noise floor like?
The pickup measures 69.8mm × 38.1mm and accommodates string widths up to 53.34mm, integrating cleanly into most bass configurations. Its -106 dB output noise floor at 60 Hz keeps hum and electromagnetic interference inaudible even in heavily shielded venues.
What output voltage should I expect?
The EMG HB delivers 2.00V string response and 4.50V strum peak, with a 10 kohm output impedance that maintains tight interfacing with standard bass electronics and mixing gear.
How does this compare to passive bass pickups?
As an active pickup, the EMG HB provides consistent, noise-free output with a dedicated internal preamp, whereas passive pickups rely on the bass's onboard electronics and are more prone to hum. Active architecture delivers the silent, defined operation this pickup is known for.
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.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.