EMG ALX Set Alexi Laiho F-Spaced
Humbucker Pickups
$155€139Check ↗
Brand profile · USA, est. 1970s
EMG
EMG, Inc. revolutionized the electric guitar and bass landscape with their active pickups, offering a distinct, high-output, and often compressed tone that quickly became a staple in rock, metal, and progressive music. Founded in the 1970s as a provider of custom pickups for the music industry, EMG’s innovative designs bypassed traditional passive pickup limitations, becoming synonymous with powerful, articulate sounds. Their direct connection to many iconic players solidified their position as a leading pickup manufacturer.
Active Pickup TechnologyDavid Gilmour Signature Pickups (DG Series)High-Output HumbuckersJMaster System PickupsDirect Wiring Design
1970sfounded
USAcountry
195products in stock
$9–$378price range
EMG in the charts
Every chart where EMG has five or more models — ranked by the AudioFu Index inside each.
Best EMG humbucker pickups
76 models$93 – $300Best EMG single coil pickups
32 models$85 – $378Best EMG electronics for guitars
15 models$32 – $110Best EMG pickups for 4-String P-Bass
10 models$98 – $178Best EMG pickups for 4-String J-Bass
9 models$162 – $217Best EMG electronics for basses
9 models$55 – $184Best EMG pickups for 7-String guitars
8 models$106 – $222
76 models$93 – $300Best EMG single coil pickups
32 models$85 – $378Best EMG electronics for guitars
15 models$32 – $110Best EMG pickups for 4-String P-Bass
10 models$98 – $178Best EMG pickups for 4-String J-Bass
9 models$162 – $217Best EMG electronics for basses
9 models$55 – $184Best EMG pickups for 7-String guitars
8 models$106 – $222
All 195 EMG products
Sorted by AudioFu Index — the strongest models of every category first. Page 5 of 5.
EMG, honestly
What EMG does well
- Delivers powerful, consistent output across the frequency spectrum
- Known for clarity and articulation, even at high gain
- Wide range of models for diverse tonal needs
- Popular among professional musicians and studios
What to watch for
- Active design requires battery power or external power supply
- Can be perceived as 'sterile' by those preferring vintage tones
- Often premium-priced, limiting accessibility for some
- Can require adjustment to playing style due to active nature
Questions about EMG
Where are EMG pickups manufactured?
EMG pickups are primarily manufactured in their facility in Dempseys Corner, Connecticut, USA. They maintain tight control over the manufacturing process to ensure consistent quality.
Do EMG pickups require special wiring?
Yes, EMG pickups utilize a unique direct wiring system that differs from traditional passive pickups. Detailed wiring diagrams are provided with each pickup set, but it often requires a more involved installation process.
What is the difference between EMG active and passive pickups?
EMG active pickups have a built-in preamp powered by a battery, boosting the signal and offering a more consistent output. Passive pickups rely solely on the guitar’s electronics and are influenced by the guitar’s wood and components.