EMG PCS Active Bass Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG1705
Description
EMG P Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG P Active Bass Pickup delivers the punchy, articulate character that defined P-bass tone for decades, now with the consistency and headroom of active electronics. This pickup cuts through dense live mixes and maintains definition across the full dynamic range—whether you're laying down locked-in pocket grooves or pushing aggressive styles on stage, it stays clear and present without losing its fundamental character.
Tone & Electronics
The ceramic magnet construction and short, squat coil configuration generate a focused midrange with crisp attack and strong fundamental. A resonant frequency of 3.20 kHz and output noise floor of -106 dB ensure articulate response without hum or hiss—critical on a loud stage. Selectable output modes (2.00V finger/thumb, 8.0V thump) let you dial in finesse or drive depending on your rig and venue needs.
Power & Integration
Built to go the distance on the road and in the studio, this active pickup draws only 380 microamps at 9V, stretching battery life to approximately 1,000 hours of continuous use—meaning you can gig hard without constant battery swaps. The 3 kohm output impedance and 27V DC maximum supply voltage rating provide wide compatibility with preamps and signal chains while maintaining clean transmission into standard bass electronics and live setups.
Key Features
- Ceramic magnet design for focused, punchy tone
- Short, squat coil configuration
- Resonant frequency: 3.20 kHz
- Output voltage (finger/thumb): 2.00V
- Output voltage (thump): 8.0V
- Output noise (60 Hz): -106 dB
- Output impedance: 3 kohm
- Current draw @ 9V: 380 microamps
- Battery life: 1,000 hours
- Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
- Black finish with silver logo
- Dimensions: 2.63"L × 2.38"W × 6"H
The EMG P combines legendary P-bass midrange character with the low-noise, high-headroom advantages of active circuitry—a straightforward upgrade for gigging players and session musicians who need both vintage vibe and modern reliability night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG PCS Active Bass Pickup delivers the punchy, articulate P-bass tone that cuts through live mixes and aggressive playing styles, with selectable output modes (2.00V or 8.0V) to dial in finesse or thump on stage. Built for gigging reliability—380 microamp draw means roughly 1,000 hours per 9V battery—and engineered with ceramic magnet construction and a focused 3.20 kHz midrange that stays hum-free even in hot, noisy venues. Choose this if you want classic P-bass character with modern active consistency and headroom, without breaking the bank.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | funk, studio sessions, live performance, drop tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Punchy, articulate, focused midrange, crisp attack, strong fundamental |
| Less specialized for | traditional jazz, folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the selectable output mode mean, and how do I use it?
The pickup offers two output voltage settings: 2.00V for controlled finger or thumb playing (finesse mode) and 8.0V for aggressive thump (high-output mode). You can configure the output at install time based on your playing style and signal chain needs, allowing you to dial in the exact amount of aggression or headroom you want.
How long will a 9V battery last with this pickup?
At 380 microamps current draw, a standard 9V battery will run approximately 1,000 hours of continuous use. This translates to months of regular playing between replacements, making it a low-maintenance choice for gigging and studio work.
Is this pickup compatible with my current bass electronics and preamps?
Yes. The 3 kohm output impedance and 27V DC maximum supply voltage rating provide broad compatibility with standard bass preamps and signal chains. It integrates cleanly into most active and passive wiring schemes without modification.
What tone styles does this pickup work best for?
The EMG PCS excels in funk, studio sessions, live performance, and drop-tuning applications where a punchy, articulate midrange and crisp attack are essential. Its focused character is less suited to traditional jazz or folk genres, where rounder, warmer tones are typically preferred.
How does the ceramic magnet design affect the tone?
The ceramic magnet and short, squat coil configuration generate a focused midrange with a resonant frequency of 3.20 kHz, delivering crisp attack and strong fundamental response. This design cuts through dense mixes and maintains definition across your dynamic range without hum or hiss.
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.
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