Does this pickup require soldering to install?

No. The EMG HX uses EMG's solderless installation system, which eliminates wiring complexity and speeds up setup or replacement. Everything you need—volume pot, active tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, and connecting cables—is included.

Will the HX fit my guitar without routing modifications?

Yes. The pickup is housed in a humbucker-sized form factor, so it fits standard humbucker routes without modification. Mounting hardware is included.

What is the Active Tone Control and how does it work?

The Active Tone Control (VLPF) is an integrated high-frequency roll-off feature that lets you shape your tone on the fly. It allows dynamic shaping of brightness and presence without post-purchase EQ gear.

Is the EMG HX suitable for jazz or vintage blues?

The EMG HX is optimized for studio sessions, home recording, extended range, and progressive playing styles. It is not recommended for traditional jazz or vintage blues applications, as its articulate, high-output active character differs from the warm, compressed tones preferred in those genres.

How does the HX compare to passive single-coil pickups?

The HX combines single-coil clarity and snap with active preamp circuitry, delivering increased headroom, dynamic range, and wide frequency response that passive pickups cannot match. The active design maintains articulation while providing the output and presence needed for modern recording and performance.

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 HX Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome

The EMG HX delivers single-coil clarity and articulation housed in a humbucker-sized form factor, making it ideal for players seeking high-output active tone without sacrificing definition. The black chrome finish provides a sleek, modern aesthetic while the solderless design streamlines installation. This pickup bridges the gap between vintage single-coil responsiveness and modern active electronics, giving you the snap of a traditional voicing with the reliability and headroom of a contemporary platform.

Tone & Electronics

Built around a ceramic magnet with wide frequency response, the HX captures the snap and presence of a traditional single coil while the X series preamp delivers increased headroom and dynamic range for clean, articulate performance across all playing dynamics. The integrated Active Tone Control (VLPF) allows high-frequency roll-off to shape your tone on the fly, keeping you responsive in any live situation.

Design & Installation

Solderless installation eliminates wiring complexity and speeds up setup or replacement. The humbucker-sized housing fits standard routes without modification, and the included mounting hardware, volume pot, active tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, and connecting cables provide everything needed for a complete install. This means less downtime between gigs and fewer points of failure on the road.

Key Features

Single coil pickup in humbucker housing
Ceramic magnet construction
X series active preamp
Active Tone Control (VLPF) for high-frequency roll-off
Wide frequency response for articulate, defined tone
Increased headroom and dynamic range
Solderless installation system
Includes 25k volume potentiometer
Includes active tone potentiometer
Battery bus connectivity
Stereo output jack
Mounting hardware and cables included

The EMG HX combines the clarity and responsiveness of single-coil design with modern active electronics and tool-free installation, delivering stage-ready performance and maintenance-free reliability for working musicians and collectors alike.

Best suited for	Studio Sessions, Home Recording, Extended Range, Progressive
Tonal character	Articulate cleans, high output, snap and presence, wide frequency response, increased headroom
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Vintage Blues (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional