What makes this pickup suit funk and progressive music but not traditional jazz?

The P6CSX emphasizes a resonant peak at 2.61 kHz with punchy output and fast note articulation—ideal for cutting through dense mixes in funk and progressive styles. Traditional jazz typically calls for smoother, more rounded midrange and sustain, which this pickup's focused character doesn't prioritize.

How long does the battery last, and what's the current draw?

Battery life reaches 3000 hours at a current draw of 80 microamps from a 9V supply. Maximum supply voltage is 27V DC, giving you headroom if you run higher voltages.

What output voltage does this pickup deliver?

String mode delivers 2.00V per string, while thump mode reaches 8.50V total output. Both provide enough headroom to drive preamps and mixing consoles without additional gain staging.

Do I need a soldering iron to install this pickup?

No—the solderless wiring system allows tool-free installation, eliminating setup time and risk of heat damage to onboard electronics.

What is the maximum string spacing, and how does impedance affect my signal chain?

Maximum string spacing is 3 inches (76mm), accommodating standard 6-string bass bridges. Input impedance of 2.00 kΩ ensures clean signal transmission to downstream equipment with minimal loading effects.

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. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $10 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG P6CSX 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Red

The P6CSX delivers articulate, focused midrange response characteristic of EMG's ceramic and steel magnet design, making it the choice for bass players running sound through dense PA systems or recording sessions where clarity cuts. This active pickup integrates solderless wiring for quick installation and produces punchy output without sacrificing note definition across all six strings—critical when you need your low end to sit tight in a live mix.

Tone & Electronics

The ceramic and steel magnet combination shapes a resonant peak at 2.61 kHz, emphasizing note articulation and cutting through band arrangements. Output voltage reaches 2.00V per string and 8.50V in thump mode, providing enough headroom to drive preamps and mixing consoles without additional gain staging—essential for live rigs where you need reliable, consistent signal.

Design & Installation

The solderless installation system eliminates the need for iron and solder, reducing setup time and potential for heat damage to onboard electronics. Input impedance of 2.00 kΩ ensures clean signal transmission to downstream equipment with minimal loading effects, keeping your signal path transparent whether you're running into a rig or a house system.

Key Features

Ceramic and steel magnet construction
Solderless wiring system for tool-free installation
Resonant frequency: 2.61 kHz
Output voltage (string mode): 2.00V
Output voltage (thump mode): 8.50V
Output impedance: 2.00 kΩ
Current draw @ 9V: 80 microamps
Battery life: 3000 hours
Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
Maximum string spacing: 3 inches (76mm)
Six-string configuration
Red finish

The P6CSX combines fast installation, extended battery life, and focused midrange character in a package built for touring musicians and sound engineers running professional six-string bass rigs.

Best suited for	Funk, Progressive, Studio Sessions, Gigging
Tonal character	Articulate midrange, punchy output, focused clarity, resonant peak at 2.61 khz, note definition
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional