EMG TBDC Active Humbucker 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
- EMG3727
Description
EMG TBDC Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The EMG TBDC is a purpose-built active replacement pickup engineered specifically for Thunderbird bass guitars. This ceramic-loaded dual-coil design delivers the punchy, articulate response that defines the Thunderbird's sonic character, with controlled output and ultra-low noise that integrates seamlessly into existing electronics.
Tone & Electronics
The ceramic-loaded dual parallel coils and 4.85 kHz resonant frequency target the midrange clarity essential to bass tone on stage and in the studio. Selectable output modes—2.00V fingerstyle and 6.00V thump mode—let you shift between articulate definition for tight rhythmic work or aggressive punch for commanding presence, while the -107 dBV output noise specification ensures a clean, hum-free signal that cuts through a live mix.
Installation & Compatibility
Designed to fit the Thunderbird's specific dimensions—94.28mm length and 41.91mm width with a 63.5mm maximum recommended string width—this pickup integrates without modification. The included Quik-Connect cable, prewired control set, output jack, battery clip, and adjustment screws streamline installation, while the 235 microamp draw at 9V and 10 kOhms output impedance ensure reliable operation with standard bass preamp circuits and road-tested durability.
Key Features
- Active dual-coil humbucker designed for Thunderbird bass
- Ceramic-loaded magnet configuration
- Dimensions: 94.28mm length × 41.91mm width
- Maximum recommended string width: 63.5mm (2.50")
- Resonant frequency: 4.85 kHz
- Switchable output: 2.00V (finger/thumb) and 6.00V (thump mode)
- Output noise: -107 dBV @ 60Hz
- Output impedance: 10 kOhms
- Current draw: 235 microamps @ 9V
- Ultra low-noise, low-impedance internal preamp
- Includes Quik-Connect cable, prewired control set, output jack, battery clip, and adjustment screws
- Black finish
The TBDC combines EMG's proven active design with Thunderbird-specific voicing, delivering controlled gain and noise performance that suits both studio recording and live performance demands.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG TBDC is an active humbucker pickup engineered specifically for Thunderbird bass guitars, delivering articulate midrange clarity and punchy attack with switchable output modes for fingerstyle definition or aggressive thump. Its ceramic-loaded dual-coil design and ultra-low noise (-107 dBV) make it a reliable choice for bassists playing funk, rock, and other styles demanding tight, controlled tone on stage and in the studio. Drop it in without modification thanks to Thunderbird-specific dimensions and included installation hardware.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ funk
- ✓ rock
- ✓ studio sessions
- ✓ live performance
Not the best pick for
- – traditional jazz
- – folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What bass guitar is this pickup designed for?
The EMG TBDC is engineered specifically for Thunderbird bass guitars and fits their dimensions without modification: 94.28mm length and 41.91mm width with a maximum recommended string width of 63.5mm.
What does switchable output mode do?
This pickup offers two selectable output modes: 2.00V for fingerstyle playing, delivering articulate definition, and 6.00V thump mode for aggressive punch. You can dial in either response depending on your playing style and tone goal.
What's included in the box?
The package includes the active pickup, Quik-Connect cable, prewired control set, output jack, battery clip, and adjustment screws to streamline installation.
How does the active design affect noise and signal quality?
The ultra-low-noise internal preamp delivers -107 dBV output noise at 60Hz and maintains 10 kOhms output impedance, ensuring a clean signal with minimal hum suitable for both studio and live performance.
What music styles is this pickup best suited for?
The TBDC excels in funk, rock, and studio sessions where punchy attack and articulate midrange clarity are essential; it is less suited to traditional jazz and folk applications that call for warmer, rounder tones.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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