What's the difference between the EMG S2 and a standard single-coil pickup?

The EMG S2 uses a stacked coil design with full impregnation and shielding to eliminate 60-cycle hum and RF interference while preserving the transparent, articulate tone of a true single-coil. You get classic single-coil clarity and responsiveness without the noise floor that typically comes with passive single-coils.

Will this pickup fit my Stratocaster or similar single-coil guitar?

Yes—the S2 is designed to integrate seamlessly into most single-coil cavities. It measures 0.7" × 2.75" (excluding mounting tabs) and includes solderless connectors for straightforward installation without requiring heavy modification.

What genres and playing styles is the EMG S2 best suited for?

The S2 excels in classic rock, country, surf, blues, and indie—any style that values bright, articulate single-coil tone. It is not recommended for metal or djent, where thicker, darker pickup responses are typically preferred.

How does the EMG S2 compare to vintage Fender single-coils?

The S2 delivers the same articulate, transparent character and responsive dynamics as vintage single-coils like Fender's '69 design, but with modern engineering: full shielding, impregnated coils, and solderless connectors eliminate hum while maintaining authentic tone.

Is installation complicated?

No—the pickup includes solderless connectors that make swapping into your guitar quick and straightforward. Complete shielding is already built in, so you avoid wiring complexity while maintaining full noise rejection.

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 S2 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black

The EMG S2 Passive Stacked Single Coil Pickup delivers the articulate, responsive character of a true single-coil design without the noise floor that typically comes with it. This HZ-S2-B model pairs classic single-coil clarity with modern construction techniques, making it a reliable choice for players seeking authentic vintage voicing in contemporary instruments. The compact, fully shielded design integrates seamlessly into most single-coil cavities.

Tone & Electrical Performance

Measuring 6.6 kOhm DC resistance and 2.38 Henries inductance, this pickup maintains the transparent, bright character expected from passive single-coil architecture. The 4.4 kHz resonant frequency and 42.5 kOhm impedance at resonance combine to produce articulate highs and defined mids, ideal for genres from classic rock to country and surf—delivering the cut and clarity you need to sit tight in a mix on stage.

Live Reliability & Installation

The stacked coil design and full impregnation process ensure stable, hum-free operation without sacrificing the responsive dynamics that define single-coil tone. Solderless connectors and complete shielding eliminate 60-cycle hum and RF interference, critical for touring and venue work where electrical noise can degrade your signal chain. Robust construction promises consistent performance across varying installations and live environments.

Key Features

Model: HZ-S2-B Passive Stacked Single Coil Pickup
DC Resistance: 6.6 kOhm
Inductance: 2.38 Henries
Resonant Frequency: 4.4 kHz
Impedance at Resonance: 42.5 kOhm
Finish: Black with gold EMG logo
Dimensions: 0.7" × 2.75" (exclusive of mounting tabs)
Fully impregnated coils for quiet performance
Solderless connectors for quick installation
Fully shielded construction to minimize hum
Stacked single-coil design for noise reduction
Manufactured in the United States

This pickup combines proven passive single-coil tone with EMG's engineering standards, delivering articulate, responsive performance backed by meticulous construction and complete noise control—a solid upgrade for players who demand clarity and reliability in the live room.

Best suited for	Classic Rock, Country, Surf, Blues, Indie
Tonal character	Articulate highs, defined mids, bright character, transparent, hum-free
Less specialized for	Metal, Djent (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced / Professional