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The Best Active Guitar Pickups in 2023: Updated Guide

There are a variety of different active pickups that can be used on guitars, depending on the style and composition of the song. Active guitar pickups allow for increased tonality and brightness, making them perfect for rock, metal, andlectic styles.

Top Picks

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#1 Top Pick: Fishman Fluence SS Active Single Width Pickup

Pros:
- It's a great pickup option because it has a wide range of sound production 
- The active circuitry allows the pickups to stay powered even when you're not using them 
- The single-stage design makes it easy to tune and get the perfect tone 
- The pickguard is made from durable materials and is easy to clean 
Cons:
- Some people find the Pickups too noisy for their music style 
- The pickups can be difficult to get right if you're not used to them

#2 Runner Up: EMG 707X 7-String Active Guitar Pickup Black

Pros:
- The pickups are very good quality, and produce a great deal of Tone. 
- The pickups are very easy to connect, and provide an extremely wide range of sound. 
- The pickups can be customised to your own playing style, making the set a great value for money. 
- The set is very easy to take care of, and will last for years without need for any maintenance. 
Cons:
- The pickups may not be the best for all Jazz bass players, as they may not produce the best results in high gain situations.
 

#3 We Also Like: EMG 81 Active Guitar Humbucker Bridge/Neck Pickup, Black

Pros:
- The EMG 81 Active Guitar Humbucker Bridge Neck Pickup offers a high quality sound that is well suited for rock, metal and jazz players. 
- The neck pickup provides a rich and tight sounding tone that is great for tight play or solos. 
- The bridge pickup provides a midsized sound that is great for versatile use in different genres of music. 
- The EMG 81 Active Guitar Humbucker Bridge Neck Pickup has an adjustable output which makes it possible to find the perfect sound for your playing style. 
Cons:
- The EMG 81 Active Guitar Humbucker Bridge Neck Pickup may be expensive compared to other pickups on the market. 
- Some users have found that the neck pickup can cause feedback when played loudly or with distortion pedals.

#4 Strong Contender: EMG KFK Kerry King 81/85 Active Guitar Humbucker Pickup Set,

Pros:
- They are very high quality and well made
- They have great sound quality
- They are very affordable
- They come with a warranty
Cons:
- Some people may not be happy with the sound quality because they're not as loud as they would like
- The pickups may require some time to get used to them
 

#5 Also Great: EMG J Active Bass Guitar Pickup Set, Black

Pros:
- Huge range of sounds -Can be used for a wide variety of music genres 
- Good value -Can be purchased either as a complete set or as individual pickups
- Piston construction - allows for very consistent voicing
Cons:
- Small body - may not be ideal for larger guitars 
- Not the best quality in terms of materials - may not last as long as other pickups
 

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Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Buying Guide

When shopping for an active guitar pickups, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best one for your needs.

Quality: Choose a reputable manufacturer in the market.
Materials: Metal, steel,...
Warranty policy: Depending on each accessory, there will be a different warranty period from the manufacturer.
Price range: 100$ - 300$.
Number of Strings: 6.
Color: Black, red,...
Guitar Pickup Configuration: H.
Pros: Has a very low ratio of resistance to inductance, which increases the low end response
By taking these factors into consideration, you can find the best active guitar pickups for your needs and budget. Don't hesitate to do research and read reviews from other customers before making a final decision.

FAQs

When should I use active pickups?

Active pickups are the best option for guitars that are used frequently in a live setting. They allow you to get the most out of your sound by picking up the notes quickly and accurately.

How far should active pickups be from strings?

Active pickups should be as far away from strings as possible.

How high should active pickups be?

Active pickups are typically around 12 inches off the ground.

Can active pickups work without batteries?

Yes, active pickups can work without batteries if they are set up correctly.

How do you test active pickups for guitar?

Active pickups are tested by pressing them against a hard surface. If the pickup sounds good when played live, it is likely to work well in an amp or recording studio.

Conclusion

Active pickups are a great choice for those who want to be able to play their guitar with the most natural sound possible. By using active pickups, you can get a more consistent and realistic sound, which is great for the beginner or those who just want to try out different sounds.

4.3
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Derek Williams
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Derek Williams
Derek Williams will soon route a short article about smartphones and accessories that he's used. He isn't overly fretted about paying for a brand-new cellphone and accessories to determine how he likes them to continue. We would be delivering him everything he wants in order to do what he enjoys doing.
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