What is the split shaft design, and does it fit my bass?

The split shaft accommodates both solid and hollow shaft volume pot installations. The pickup measures 2.25" × 1.10" and is sized for the 5-string bass bridge position; verify your bass's bridge spacing and control cavity depth before ordering.

How much output does this pickup have, and will it push my amp hard?

Output ranges from 2.00V in finger mode to 4.50V in thump mode, which is substantial for an active system and gives you headroom for dynamic playing without constant volume compensation. Maximum supply is 27V DC.

Do I need to solder this pickup, or can I install it myself?

The EMG P5 uses a solderless Quik-Connect wiring system and comes with prewired volume/tone controls, output jack, and battery clip—no soldering iron required. Basic assembly and adjustment take minimal time.

What genres and playing styles suit this pickup best?

The EMG P5 excels in funk, progressive, and studio sessions where articulation and defined tone matter most. It is not designed for folk or country styles.

How long will the battery last?

Battery life is rated at approximately 3000 hours at 9V supply, which translates to roughly 125 days of continuous play or several months of regular gigging and practice.

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 P5 Split Shaft 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

The EMG P5 is a precision-engineered active pickup built for 5-string bass players who need clear articulation and controlled dynamics on stage and in the studio. Its offset dual-coil design delivers the punchy, defined tone that defines EMG's professional-grade active systems, with output levels that respond predictably whether you're fingerstyle or digging in hard.

Tone & Electronics

Built around ceramic magnets and an offset dual-coil configuration (not in series), this pickup produces a 3.20 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes clarity and articulation across the low-end spectrum. Output ranges from 2.00V in finger/thumb mode to 4.50V in thump mode, giving you substantial headroom and dynamic range without forcing constant volume compensation during live sets or tracking sessions.

Design & Installation

The solderless wiring system with included Quik-Connect cable streamlines installation significantly—no soldering iron required. Dimensions of 2.25" × 1.10" fit the 5-string bass bridge position precisely, and the package includes prewired solid shaft volume and tone controls, output jack, battery clip set, and adjustment screws for quick setup and reliable operation on the road.

Key Features

Ceramic magnet construction
Offset dual-coil design (non-series)
Resonant Frequency: 3.20 kHz
Output Voltage (Finger/Thumb): 2.00V
Output Voltage (Thump): 4.50V
Output Impedance: 10 Kohm
Current @9V: 80 Microamps
Battery Life: 3000 hours
Maximum Supply: 27V DC
Dimensions: 2.25" L × 1.10" W (57.2mm × 27.9mm)
Solderless wiring system with Quik-Connect cable
Prewired volume/tone control set included

This is a capable, dependable active pickup that delivers consistent, articulate bass tone through exacting setup and responsive playing technique night after night.

Best suited for	Funk, Progressive, Studio Sessions, Gigging
Tonal character	Punchy, articulate, controlled dynamics, clear low-end, high output capability
Less specialized for	Folk, Country (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional