Does the EMG PAX require any modifications to install in my bass?

No routing modifications are needed for most modern bass bodies. The compact single-coil footprint allows seamless integration into existing pickup cavities, making it ideal for retrofitting without extensive work.

What kind of battery does it need, and how often will I change it?

The PAX operates on a standard 9V battery, which powers the active preamp and contributes to the reduced noise floor and consistent output across all playing dynamics.

Is the PAX good for jazz and traditional bass styles?

The PAX is optimized for funk, slap bass, and modern rock with punchy, articulate mids and aggressive transient capture. Traditional jazz and upright bass styles are better served by passive pickup designs.

How does the PAX compare to other active bass pickups?

The PAX delivers EMG's professional-grade active technology in a compact form factor with strong midrange presence and controlled lows. It compares to models like the Seymour Duncan Active P and Bartolini CBJD, distinguished by its space-saving single-coil design and high signal-to-noise ratio.

What playing techniques does the PAX handle well?

The PAX excels with slap, fingerstyle, and pick-driven techniques, offering responsive dynamic range and aggressive transient capture that translates definition through dense mix environments.

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 PAX Active Bass Pickup in Black

The EMG PAX is a compact, high-output active pickup engineered for bass players seeking clarity and punch in confined spaces. Its single-coil design delivers articulate mids and defined lows without the bulk of traditional humbucker configurations, making it ideal for repositioning or retrofitting into tight pickup cavities.

Design & Construction

This active design incorporates EMG's proprietary circuitry and requires a 9V battery for operation, ensuring consistent output and reduced noise floor across all playing dynamics. The black cover and compact footprint allow seamless integration into most modern bass bodies without routing modifications.

Tone & Output Character

The PAX produces a punchy, articulate voice with strong midrange presence and controlled low-end response—ideal for slap, fingerstyle, and pick-driven techniques. Active electronics provide high signal-to-noise ratio and aggressive transient capture, translating to definition through dense mix environments on stage.

Key Features

Active electronics with onboard preamp
Single-coil configuration for compact installation
High output level suitable for modern amplifiers
9V battery operation
Black powder-coated cover finish
Reduced noise floor characteristic of active design
Articulate midrange and controlled bass response
Responsive dynamic range across playing techniques
Retrofitting capability into existing pickup cavities
Professional-grade EMG construction and reliability

The PAX delivers EMG's proven active technology in a compact form factor built for touring and session bass players who need consistent, noise-free performance in any rig.

Best suited for	Funk, Slap Bass, Modern Rock, Studio Sessions
Tonal character	Punchy, articulate mids, controlled low end, high output, aggressive transients
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Upright Bass Styles (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional