Do I need to modify my guitar to install this pickup?

No. The HX is built into a standard humbucker housing, so it fits any guitar routed for humbuckers without body cavity enlargement. Solderless installation cables are included for rapid setup.

What's the tone like compared to traditional single-coils or humbuckers?

You get single-coil articulation, snap, and note separation—the transparency you'd expect from a true single-coil—but in a humbucker form factor. The active X series preamp adds extended dynamic range, aggressive output, and high-frequency clarity ideal for high-gain and metal applications.

Can I shape the tone on the fly?

Yes. The onboard Active Tone Control (VLPF) provides variable high-frequency roll-off adjustment, letting you dial in tonal character without reaching for external gear.

What comes included in the box?

The pickup, 25k volume potentiometer, active tone potentiometer, battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, and installation cables are all included.

Is this pickup suitable for jazz or vintage tone chasing?

No. The HX is designed for high-gain rock, metal, and modern studio work—it prioritizes aggressive output, clarity, and noise rejection over warm vintage character.

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 HX Active Single Coil Pickup in Red

The EMG HX delivers single-coil articulation in a humbucker-sized format—a no-routing retrofit that lets you keep your existing cavities while gaining clarity and definition. This active design pairs dynamic responsiveness with the aggressive output and noise rejection you need on a loud stage, across everything from high-gain leads to clean tones that cut through a full mix.

Design & Construction

Housed in a standard humbucker shell, the HX preserves the transparency, snap, and note separation of a true single coil without requiring body work. The red cover finish stands out visually and works with modern instrument styling, so you get both performance and appearance in one drop-in swap.

Live Performance & Tone Control

The integrated X series preamp gives you extended dynamic range and headroom—sustain and articulation stay tight even when you dig in hard. The onboard Active Tone Control (VLPF) lets you roll off high frequencies in real time, so you can dial in your tone without reaching for external gear or stopping the set.

Key Features

Single-coil pickup design in humbucker-sized housing
X series active preamp with extended dynamic range
Active Tone Control with variable low-pass filter (VLPF)
Solderless installation system for rapid setup and modification
Included 25k volume potentiometer
Included active tone potentiometer
Battery bus and stereo output jack
Complete mounting hardware and installation cables included

The EMG HX combines drop-in installation with the sonic clarity of a true single-coil design—a practical choice for gigging musicians who want single-coil definition without the routing commitment.