Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $88

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$119

$200+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your bass guitar's sound with the EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup, a staple in the realm of active electric bass pickups. Designed for the discerning musician, this pickup captures the essence of the classic J-style sound while infusing it with modern enhancements. Whether you're laying down the groove in the studio or commanding the stage, the EMG 35J delivers exceptional tonal clarity and definition, making it a favorite among bassists worldwide.

The EMG 35J is tailored specifically for 4-string basses, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance. Its robust construction features a high-quality jack magnet, which mirrors the sought-after characteristics of traditional J-style pickups while providing the power and precision of active electronics. This combination allows for a broad frequency response and a dynamic range that brings out the best in your instrument.

Installation is a breeze with the included potentiometers, jack, and battery clip, allowing you to get up and running with minimal fuss. The EMG 35J's sleek housing not only complements the aesthetic of your bass but is constructed to withstand the rigors of regular play. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring musician, this pickup is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Key Features:

  • Designed for 4-string bass guitars
  • Active electronics for enhanced tonal clarity
  • Classic J-style sound with modern improvements
  • Includes potentiometers, jack, and battery clip
  • Easy installation with durable construction

Product specs

Available since September 2007
Active Pickup System Yes
Wiring Prewired
Colour Black

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup?

The EMG 35J offers a clear, punchy sound with a focus on midrange response, making it ideal for genres requiring articulation and definition, such as jazz and funk.

Is the EMG 35J suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the EMG 35J's active design provides a higher output and clarity, enhancing the punch and definition needed for effective slap bass playing.

Does the EMG 35J require a battery?

Yes, as an active pickup, the EMG 35J requires a 9-volt battery to operate, providing long-lasting performance and consistent tone.

Can the EMG 35J be easily installed in my bass guitar?

The EMG 35J comes with a prewired system, simplifying the installation process and making it accessible even for those with minimal wiring experience.

Is the EMG 35J compatible with both 4-string and 5-string bass guitars?

The EMG 35J is designed to fit a variety of bass guitars, including both 4-string and 5-string models, thanks to its versatile dimensions and design.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup.

Mods and upgrades

  • The EMG 35J can be paired with an Aguilar OBP-1 preamp, requiring a switch to 25K volume pots for compatibility.

    Source
  • Owners recommend replacing stock Chinese tone and volume pots with quality parts for significant tonal improvement, suggesting adding an "Orange Drop" to the main tone knob if going passive.

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  • EMG HZ D35 pickups deliver a big, grindy passive sound and are frequently available used, making them a budget-friendly choice for tonal upgrades.

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Features and functionality

  • Active EMG pickups come with a power bus, allowing integration with existing circuits, though battery life may decrease slightly.

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Comparisons

  • The EMG 35J paired with a Hazlab clone offers a USA bolt-on sound, while a DC combo provides a modern Spector tone.

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  • The Aguilar DCB-G3 set offers a smooth passive sound, suitable for those seeking a gritty yet melodic tone, with an active/passive EQ switch as a potential enhancement.

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Setup and maintenance

  • For active EMG pickups, a stereo barrel jack may be necessary if the bass uses a barrel jack.

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User experience

  • Users aiming for a classic Spector sound suggest a 9v setup for the characteristic compressed tone, with an easy mod to 18v for more headroom if needed.

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  • Left-handed players face significant challenges in finding suitable gear, with one owner noting limited options even from major retailers like Thomann.

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Use cases and applications

  • For post-rock and post-metal, users suggest maintaining the active preamp for enhanced punch during live performances, despite considering a passive setup for studio recordings.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tom Araya uses EMG 35J Active Bass Pickup

Tom Araya

Singer, Bassist

Slayer

...
Verified via Emgpickups

Tom Araya's signature EMG set features an EMG 35J soapbar pickup for the bridge pickup.

Genre Usage

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