EMG active pickups are some of the most popular pickups among guitar players. They offer high output, clarity, and noise reduction, making them perfect for heavy genres of music. However, to get the best out of these pickups, you need to know how to wire them properly. This article will guide you through the process of wiring EMG active pickups, including the necessary tools and materials, installation procedures, and tips for troubleshooting common problems.
What are EMG Active Pickups?
EMG active pickups are guitar pickups that use active circuitry to boost the signal from the guitar strings. Unlike passive pickups, which use magnets to create a magnetic field that is then converted into an electrical signal by the guitar’s electronics, active pickups have a built-in preamp that amplifies the signal directly from the pickup. This makes them more powerful and less susceptible to noise and interference.
EMG active pickups are particularly popular with heavy metal and hard rock guitarists, as they offer high output and plenty of sustain. They are also popular with bass guitarists, as they offer stronger low-end response compared to passive pickups.
Tools and Materials Required
Wiring EMG active pickups requires a few specialized tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| Soldering iron | EMG wiring kit |
| Solder | EMG active pickups |
| Wire cutters/strippers | Battery clip |
| Phillips screwdriver |
Installation Procedures
Step 1: Removing Old Pickups
The first step to installing EMG active pickups is to remove the old pickups from your guitar. To do this, you’ll need to remove the pickguard or back cover on your guitar to access the wiring. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove any screws holding the pickguard or back cover in place. Once removed, you should be able to see the wiring for the old pickups.
Carefully remove the old pickups from the guitar body. They should be connected to the wiring with two or three wires – one for each coil in the pickup. Use wire cutters or strippers to disconnect the wires from the old pickups.
Step 2: Prepping the EMG Pickups
Next, you’ll need to prepare the EMG pickups for installation. EMG pickups come with a wiring harness that includes a battery clip, jack socket, and pickup connectors. Carefully connect the wires from the pickup to the appropriate connectors on the wiring harness, following the instructions in the EMG wiring kit. Be sure to strip the insulation from the wires and twist them together tightly before making the connection.
Step 3: Installing the EMG Pickups
Once the EMG pickups are prepped and ready, you can install them in your guitar. Position the pickups in the same location as the old pickups, making sure that they are securely held in place. Connect the new pickup wires to the corresponding wires in the guitar’s wiring. The EMG wiring kit should include a diagram that shows which wires to connect to which terminals.
Next, connect the battery clip to the wiring harness. This will power the active circuitry in the pickups. Finally, reattach the pickguard or back cover to the guitar body, and screw it in place using the original screws.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can EMG active pickups be used with other brands of guitars?
A: Yes, EMG active pickups can be installed in any guitar that is compatible with standard-sized pickups. However, you may need to modify the wiring or routing of the guitar body to accommodate the new pickups.
Q: How do I know if my guitar is compatible with EMG active pickups?
A: To install EMG active pickups, your guitar must have enough space to accommodate the new pickups and wiring harness. You should also check the resistance of your guitar’s pots and switches, as EMG pickups require 25k pots and a stereo jack. If your guitar doesn’t meet these requirements, you may need to replace the pots and jack before installing the new pickups.
Q: Why is my EMG pickup not working?
A: If your EMG pickup isn’t working, there are a few things you can check. First, check that the battery clip is securely connected to the wiring harness and that the battery is fresh. Next, check that the wiring connections are secure and that the pickup is properly grounded. Finally, check that your guitar’s pots and switches are compatible with the EMG pickups, and that they are properly wired.
Q: Can I mix and match EMG active pickups?
A: Yes, you can mix and match EMG active pickups to create a custom sound. EMG offers a wide range of pickups with different output levels and tonal characteristics, so you can experiment to find the perfect combination for your playing style.
Q: How do I adjust the height of my EMG pickups?
A: To adjust the height of your EMG pickups, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the pickups in place. You can then raise or lower the pickups until they are at the desired height. Be sure to tighten the screws firmly once you have made the adjustment.
Conclusion
Wiring EMG active pickups may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and instructions, it’s a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to install EMG pickups in your guitar and enjoy their high output and clarity. If you encounter any problems along the way, consult the FAQ section for troubleshooting tips.
