What pickup configuration does the EMG TA use?

The set pairs a 35DC humbucker with a 35J single-coil, both powered by active electronics with ceramic magnets. This combination delivers high output and articulate midrange definition ideal for metal and hard rock.

Does this set require soldering during installation?

No. The EMG TA features a solderless installation system with pre-assembled wiring harnesses, battery bus, stereo output jack, pickup selector bus, and all necessary cables included for straightforward integration.

What genres and playing styles is the TA best suited for?

The TA is engineered for metal, thrash metal, hard rock, and gigging applications where aggressive, articulate tone and clarity in dense mixes are priorities. It is not optimized for jazz, folk, or country playing.

What controls and potentiometers are included?

The set includes two 25k volume potentiometers and two 25k tone potentiometers for straightforward signal control, plus a complete accessory package with mounting screws, pickup cables, connect cables, output cable, and battery cable.

Does the active circuit require a battery?

Yes. The active electronics require battery operation to maintain consistent signal strength and eliminate tone sag that can occur with passive pickups under heavy playing pressure.

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 $15 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 TA Active Soapbar Bass Pickup Set in Black

The EMG TA delivers the aggressive, articulate tone that defined thrash metal's low end. This active soapbar set combines a tight, punchy character with the clarity needed to cut through dense mixes, making it the weapon of choice for players demanding professional-grade output and rock-solid reliability on stage and in the studio.

Active Electronics & Configuration

Built on active pickup technology with ceramic magnets, the TA pairs a 35DC humbucker with a 35J single-coil to deliver high output and articulate midrange definition. The active circuit requires battery operation, ensuring consistent signal strength and eliminating passive pickup tone sag under heavy playing—critical for gigging musicians who need dependable performance night after night.

Installation & Controls

The solderless installation system streamlines setup with pre-assembled wiring harnesses, reducing downtime and making field repairs straightforward. The included two 25k volume pots and two 25k tone pots provide intuitive control over your signal. Complete with battery bus, stereo output jack, pickup selector bus, mounting hardware, and all necessary cables, this set arrives ready for integration into your bass.

Key Features

35DC humbucker and 35J single-coil pickup combination
Active pickup system with ceramic magnets
4-string configuration
Soapbar housing format
Solderless installation system
Two 25k volume potentiometers and two 25k tone potentiometers included
Battery bus, stereo output jack, and two-pickup in/out bus
Complete accessory package: mounting screws, pickup cables, connect cables, output cable, and battery cable
Signature pickup set of Slayer's Tom Araya

The EMG TA stands as the definitive choice for bass players seeking uncompromising output, clarity, and proven performance in demanding live and recording applications.

Best suited for	Metal, Thrash Metal, Hard Rock, Gigging, Studio Sessions
Tonal character	Aggressive, articulate, tight low end, high output, punchy
Less specialized for	Jazz, Folk, Country (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional