Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$119.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$119.00
Amazon
4.1 (15)
$119.00
Amazon Prime
Musician's Friend
5.0 (3)
$119.00
Thomann
4.8 (45)
$98.00 $96.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $115

Budget/Beginner

$119

$200+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "EMG 40DC Pickup". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step up your game with the EMG 40DC Pickup, a dynamic and expressive addition to your 5-string bass setup. This dual coil bass guitar pickup combines the power of parallel placed ceramic loaded coils to create a rich, resonant sound, bringing out the best of your instrument's range. With an ultra-low noise preamp, similar to the one designed for the EMG-JV model, you'll enjoy a clean, crisp performance, free from unwanted noise.

The EMG 40DC Pickup is more than just a pickup; it's a statement of your commitment to superior sound quality. Reproducing an extended range cleanly, from the highest to the lowest notes, is a challenge for any pickup, but the 40DC handles it effortlessly. The low-impedance internal preamp, combined with ceramic loaded dual parallel coils, results in a versatile unit capable of delivering the cleanest highs to the dirtiest growling lows.

Key Features:

  • Parallel placed ceramic loaded coils for a rich, resonant sound
  • Ultra-low noise preamp, ensuring clean and crisp performance
  • Wide magnetic field for excellent bass response
  • Extended housing perfect for 5-string spacing
  • Includes EMG's exclusive Quik-Connect cable, prewired solid shaft volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, and adjustment screws
  • Maximum string spacing: 79.37 mm
  • Color: Black
  • Resonant frequency: 4.55kHz
  • Logo color: Silver

Product specs

Type Humbucker
Format Soapbar
Active/Passive Active
Magnet Material Ceramic
Number of Strings 5
Position Bridge, Middle
DC Resistance 10K
Number of Conductors 2 wire plus battery
Features Solderless

FAQs

What makes the EMG 40DC pickup suitable for modern bass tones?

The EMG 40DC features a dual-coil design with ceramic magnets, providing a powerful and clear tone that excels in modern music genres. Its active circuitry ensures a consistent output with reduced noise, making it ideal for players seeking a punchy and articulate sound.

Is the EMG 40DC pickup compatible with 5-string bass guitars?

Yes, the EMG 40DC is specifically designed for 5-string bass guitars, offering a soapbar format that fits seamlessly in the bridge or middle position of these instruments.

How does the solderless installation feature of the EMG 40DC benefit users?

The solderless installation of the EMG 40DC allows for quick and easy setup without the need for soldering skills, making it accessible for players who want to upgrade their pickups without professional assistance.

Can the EMG 40DC pickup be used in both bridge and middle positions?

Yes, the EMG 40DC is versatile enough to be installed in either the bridge or middle position, providing flexibility in achieving the desired tonal balance across different playing styles.

What type of sound can I expect from the EMG 40DC's ceramic magnets?

The ceramic magnets in the EMG 40DC deliver a bright and aggressive tone with strong midrange presence, making it suitable for players who require clarity and definition in their sound.

Public Peace

Public Peace

EMG 40DC - Maruszczyk Frog Beta 5a

Video thumbnail for EMG 40DC - Maruszczyk Frog Beta 5a by Public Peace

EMG 40DC - Maruszczyk Frog Beta 5a

Public Peace

Public Peace

Video thumbnail for EMG 40PJ set vs. EMG 40DC pickups comparison by SerhioTKM

EMG 40PJ set vs. EMG 40DC pickups comparison

SerhioTKM

SerhioTKM

Video thumbnail for EMG 40DC Pickups & EMG BQC System Bass preamp (review by G. Y.)  (Slap Bass & Double Thumb) by Gökhan Yumuşakdemir

EMG 40DC Pickups & EMG BQC System Bass preamp (review by G. Y.) (Slap Bass & Double Thumb)

Gökhan Yumuşakdemir

Gökhan Yumuşakdemir

Video thumbnail for EMG 40DC Bass Pickup: What’s In The Box? (A Close-Up Look) by Fat Bass Tone

EMG 40DC Bass Pickup: What’s In The Box? (A Close-Up Look)

Fat Bass Tone

Fat Bass Tone

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional clarity and thunderous sound transform the tone of any bass

  • Versatile tonal palette from metal to jazz to funk

  • Easy installation with a solderless connection system

  • High-end growl and low-end thump cut through mixes beautifully

  • Ideal for upgrading basses with soapbar pickup cavities

  • Suitable for both passive and active EQ setups

  • Durable and reliable for long-term use

  • Compatible with multiple string versions (4, 5, and 6-string)

  • Great value for the array of tones it offers

CONS

  • Solderless connections may lead to volume drops and distortion

  • May feel sterile in basses made from high-quality wood

  • Requires US-sized knobs, which may not fit all basses

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG 40DC Pickup.

Setup and maintenance

  • The EMG 40DC requires adding a battery compartment to passive basses like the RB888.

    Source
  • EMG pickups use a connector system requiring no soldering, though using the existing jack may necessitate soldering.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The EMG 40DC uses bar magnets, ensuring consistent performance regardless of string spacing.

    Source
  • The EMG B30EQ System allows for 5-knob functionality with bass, mid, and treble controls on a single board, ideal for preserving the original look of the guitar.

    Source
  • EMG pickups require a preamp, which can be EMG's own or from another manufacturer, ensuring flexibility in setup.

    Source
  • The 45TWX, similar to the DCX, offers a coil-splitting option, allowing it to function as a JX pickup, providing versatility in tone.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • To maintain the original series/parallel/split functionality, check for 4-conductor wiring before installing the EMG 40DC.

    Source
  • Combining a 40DCX in the bridge with a 40CSX in the neck mimics the setup of the David Ellefson set, offering power and versatility for rock/metal styles.

    Source
  • For basses with holes in a straight line, the B30 or B64 EQ preamp is recommended, as these have EQ controls on a single board.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 40DCX is noted for having greater dynamic range compared to the original 40DC, which has a more natural compression, appealing to different tonal preferences.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners mention preferring full-range pickups like the 40DC in the bridge for a "fatter" sound, while a 40P5 at the neck gives a thinner, J-style tone.

    Source
  • Potential buyers in Europe face longer delivery times and higher shipping costs for the DCX, impacting purchase decisions.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
boom762
boom762

12239

Best Pickups Ever!

I have the "X series" version of this set. The 40DCX are an even hotter humbucker than the 40DC and nearly no background sound. These pickups are a marvel of technology. I'm running my set, which are set to run at 18v, at only 9v. At 9v, it sounds like the most powerful, thickets bass ever.

VERY versatile. With the EMG BQC preamp system, I can make the pickups sound bright and plinky like a single coil, or muddy, warm, and thick like a mudbucker. I have my settings so that the back pickup is slightly high and the front pickup is low and deep. It's perfect. It sounds like the best Precision Pickup in the world; Crisp and Powerful.

Buying these pickups took away my guitar lust / GAS. I don't want another bass unless it has 2x 40DCX in them and a BQC system attached.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Les Claypool uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Les Claypool

Singer, Bassist

Primus

...
Verified via Emgpickups

Claypool uses 40DC.

See how David Ellefson uses EMG 40DC Pickup

David Ellefson

Singer, Bassist

Megadeth

...
Verified via Jacksonguitars

His signature model uses 40DC pickups.

See how Alex Webster uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Alex Webster

Bassist

Cannibal Corpse

...
Verified via Photo

Alex uses these in conjunction with an EMG BQC System on all his signature basses. Source.

See how Tom Araya uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Tom Araya

Singer, Bassist

Slayer

...
Verified via Archive

According to this old capture of the EMG website, Tom uses the EMG 40DC pickup.

See how Doug Wimbish uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Doug Wimbish

Bassist

Living Colour

...
Verified via Emgpickups

He plays those pickups.

See how Paolo Gregoletto uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Paolo Gregoletto

Bassist

Trivium

...
Verified via Emgpickups

He uses 40DC in his basses.

See how Tony Campos uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Tony Campos

Singer, Bassist

Static?X

...
Verified via Emgpickups

Campos uses 40DC.

See how Tomasz Wróblewski uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Tomasz Wróblewski

Bassist

Behemoth

...
Verified via The ESP Guitar Company

He uses on this gig LTD F-415 which has a pair of EMG 40DC. He also uses 35DC for four string basses according ESP site.

See how Olivier Pinard uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Olivier Pinard

Bassist

Cryptopsy

...
Verified via Emgpickups

Olivier Pinard uses the EMG 40DC Pickup, as noted on the EMG Pickups website.

See how Daniel Kenny uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Daniel Kenny

Bassist

Suicide Silence

...
Verified via YouTube

In an interview with ESP Guitars USA, Daniel Kenny confirms at around 0:50 that the electronics in his signature bass include the EMG 40DC pickup.

See how Traa Daniels uses EMG 40DC Pickup

Traa Daniels

Bassist

P.O.D.

...
Verified via Photo

In a promotional photo for EMG Pickups, Traa Daniels of P.O.D. is captured holding a Warwick bass with EMG pickups installed. According to the EMG Website, this pair is o fthe EMG 40DC pups, but he also uses the active EMG LJ's.

See how I.C.S. Vortex uses EMG 40DC Pickup

I.C.S. Vortex

Singer, Guitarist

Dimmu Borgir

...
Verified via Emgpickups

Vortex uses 40DC.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use EMG 40DC Pickup, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

EMG BQC Control System
EMG BQC Control System Guitar Potentiometers
1
EMG MMTW
EMG MMTW Bass Guitar Pickups
1
ESP LTD F-415
ESP LTD F-415 Electric Basses
1

Community setups

Show yours
spikebh

spikebh

Gear IQ 164

1 alternative for EMG 40DC Pickup, curated by the Equipboard community.

More EMG Bass Guitar Pickups

Accessories & Related Items