What does the active tone control (VLPF) do?

The VLPF (Variable Low-Pass Filter) provides high-frequency roll-off adjustment, letting you dial in brightness and presence on the fly without hardware EQ. This is useful for shaping tone between songs or adapting to different venues and recording spaces.

Is this pickup compatible with standard 6-string bass bridges?

Yes. The P6CSX accommodates a maximum string spacing of 3 inches (76mm), which covers standard 6-string bass bridge widths. Always verify your bridge spacing before purchasing to ensure proper fit.

How is the noise performance compared to passive pickups?

The P6CSX delivers exceptionally low output noise at -101 dB (60 Hz), eliminating the hum and hiss typical of passive designs. This makes it ideal for clean, articulate low-end reproduction in both studio and live settings.

What are the output levels and current draw?

The pickup produces 2.00V string output and 8.50V thump output, with a current draw of 80 microamps @ 9V and a maximum supply voltage of 27V DC. Battery life is approximately 3000 hours.

How does the solderless wiring system work?

The solderless wiring streamlines installation and maintains consistent signal integrity without the need for soldering. This reduces installation time and potential noise from cold solder joints.

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 P6CSX 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

The EMG P6CSX delivers a punchy, articulate voice that cuts through live and studio mixes with clarity and responsiveness across all frequency ranges. This X series pickup combines ceramic and steel magnets with compact coil design to maximize headroom and minimize noise, making it a dependable choice for touring bass players and session work.

Design & Construction

Built with ceramic and steel magnets paired with short, squat coils, the P6CSX achieves the extended dynamic range characteristic of EMG's X series architecture. The solderless wiring system streamlines installation while maintaining consistent signal integrity, and a maximum string spacing of 3 inches (76mm) accommodates standard 6-string bass bridge widths.

Electronics & Performance

The integrated active tone control (VLPF) provides high-frequency roll-off adjustment, allowing real-time brightness and presence shaping during performance. Output specifications include 2.00V string output and 8.50V thump output, with exceptionally low noise at -101 dB (60 Hz)—essential for clean, articulate low-end reproduction without hum or hiss on any stage.

Key Features

Ceramic and steel magnet design with X series increased headroom
6-string configuration with 3-inch (76mm) maximum string spacing
Active tone control (VLPF) for high-frequency shaping
Solderless wiring installation
2.00V string output voltage; 8.50V thump output voltage
Output noise: -101 dB (60 Hz)
Output impedance: 2.00 kΩ
Current draw: 80 microamps @ 9V
Battery life: 3000 hours
Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
Black finish
Resonant frequency: 2.61 kHz

The EMG P6CSX combines controlled output dynamics with noise rejection, delivering transparent, high-output tone without the hum that plagues passive designs—road-tested reliability for bass players who need their rig to perform night after night.