What does active mean, and what do I need to install it?

Active pickups use built-in preamp electronics powered by a battery to deliver high output and hum cancellation. Installation requires a battery-powered preamp circuit in your guitar; the pickup itself fits standard single-coil Fender-style cavities, but you'll need to route for the additional active electronics if your instrument doesn't already have them.

Will this work in my Fender Stratocaster or Telecaster?

Yes. The EMG HX uses standard single-coil footprint routing, so it installs directly into most Fender-style instruments designed for single-coil pickups. Confirm your guitar's cavity matches standard single-coil dimensions before ordering.

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

The HX delivers higher output, eliminates hum through active circuitry, and maintains signal strength over long cable runs without degradation. It trades the traditional passive single-coil feel for modern noise rejection and consistency, making it better for stages with RF interference and complex pedal setups.

Is this pickup suitable for jazz or folk?

The EMG HX is optimized for blues, rock, and metal applications, where its bright, cutting tone and articulate attack excel. Jazz and folk players typically favor warmer, more vintage-voiced pickups that the HX's extended high-end and high-output character don't emphasize.

What skill level do I need to install this?

Installation requires intermediate soldering and wiring knowledge, especially since you'll need to integrate the active preamp circuit alongside the pickup. If your guitar isn't already routed for active electronics, consult a tech or experienced builder.

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 Brushed Chrome

The EMG HX delivers articulate, high-output single-coil character without the hum that typically plagues traditional designs. Its compact footprint and brushed chrome finish integrate seamlessly into modern and vintage instrument aesthetics alike. This is a workhorse pickup for players seeking clarity and definition across clean, crunch, and lead applications on stage and in the studio.

Tone & Output Characteristics

The HX produces a bright, cutting tone with extended high-frequency response and controlled lows, making it excel at articulate note separation and chord definition through any PA or monitor mix. Its active circuit delivers consistent output without signal degradation, ideal for long cable runs from stage to rig and stacked pedal chains on a crowded pedalboard.

Construction & Installation

Built with active EMG electronics, this pickup requires a battery-powered preamp circuit and operates at lower impedance than passive designs, resulting in reduced electromagnetic noise—critical for touring musicians dealing with complex stage setups and RF interference. Standard single-coil routing accommodates most Fender-style instruments; the brushed chrome cover resists fingerprints and maintains visual consistency with modern hardware through repeated gigging.

Key Features

Active single-coil design with hum-canceling circuitry
High output level for aggressive gain staging
Extended high-frequency response for articulate note attack
Brushed chrome finish
Standard single-coil footprint
Low-impedance output for minimal signal loss
Requires active preamp circuit and battery power
Versatile across clean, blues, rock, and metal applications
Compatible with most Fender-style single-coil cavities
Consistent performance in studio and live settings
Reduced susceptibility to RF interference and hum

The EMG HX bridges the gap between vintage single-coil responsiveness and modern noise rejection, delivering professional-grade tone and reliability night after night.

Best suited for	Blues, Rock, Metal, Studio Sessions, Live Performance
Tonal character	Bright, cutting, articulate, high-output, extended high-end
Less specialized for	Folk, Jazz (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional