Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (7)
$189.00 $183.33 $5.67 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$189.00
Amazon
4.8 (62)
$189.00
Musician's Friend
4.0 (12)
$189.00
Thomann
4.7 (95)
$141.00 $139.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $180

Standard/Professional

$119

$200+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "EMG JA Set". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Revitalize your 4-string electric bass with the EMG JA Set, a comprehensive pickup solution designed to deliver a distinctive and rich tonal experience. This set features two J-style pickups equipped with domed Alnico V magnets, offering a warm and open sound reminiscent of the classic vintage tone, yet with enhanced clarity and a broad frequency range. Whether you're laying down a smooth groove or driving a powerful bass line, these pickups provide the definition and depth you need to stand out.

Beyond just the pickups, the EMG JA Set includes everything you need for seamless installation and superior performance. With two 25K volume pots and a 25K tone pot, you can easily sculpt your sound to suit any musical context. The set also comes with a battery clip, jack socket, and all necessary cables, ensuring a straightforward installation that gets you playing sooner.

Join the ranks of musicians who trust EMG for their unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative design. The JA Set not only elevates your instrument’s sound but also enhances your musical expression, making it a must-have for any serious bass player.

Key Features:

  • Two J-style pickups with domed Alnico V magnets
  • Warm, open vintage tone with enhanced clarity
  • Complete set includes:
    • 2 x 25K volume pot
    • 1 x 25K tone pot
    • Battery clip
    • Jack socket
    • Cable for easy installation

Product specs

Available since February 2019
Active Pickup System Yes
Wiring Completely Wired
Colour Black
Position Bridge, Neck

FAQs

What makes the EMG JA Set different from the standard EMG J pickups?

The EMG JA Set uses Alnico V magnets instead of ceramic, providing a warmer and more vintage sound while maintaining the broad frequency range and clarity of the original J pickups.

Is the EMG JA Set suitable for vintage bass tones?

Yes, the EMG JA Set is designed to deliver a warm, open tone with powerful lows and expansive midrange, making it ideal for achieving vintage bass sounds.

Can the EMG JA Set be used in both bridge and neck positions?

Yes, the EMG JA Set is designed for use in both the bridge and neck positions, providing versatile tonal options for your bass guitar.

Does the EMG JA Set come with all necessary installation components?

Yes, the EMG JA Set includes Quik-Connect cables, prewired control sets with volume and tone controls, output jacks, battery clips, and adjustment screws for easy installation.

Is the EMG JA Set an active pickup system?

Yes, the EMG JA Set is an active pickup system, which provides a higher output and more consistent tone compared to passive pickups.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality, especially from the neck pickup

  • Ultra-silent performance, eliminating unwanted buzz

  • Easy installation with no-solder kit

  • Versatile tones, from classic to aggressive

  • Maintains fidelity with overdrive

  • Compatible with BTC control

  • Enhances even budget bass guitars to high-end performance

CONS

  • Less impressive tone from bridge pickup alone

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • EMG pickups provide a full range sound with detailed lows and bright highs, suitable for various genres beyond just aggressive styles.

    Source
  • EMG's Geezer Butler signature set offers a fuller sound on P basses, enhancing tone significantly compared to stock pickups.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Performing an 18v mod on EMG pickups can prevent distortion and clipping, offering more headroom for the bass preamp, as recommended directly by EMG.

    Source
  • Users suggest raising the J pickup higher than the P to balance its naturally quieter output in PJ sets.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • EMG pickups can be adapted for diverse styles using a 3-band EQ and pickup blending, allowing users to achieve a defined sound with both pickups engaged.

    Source
  • EMG pickups are highlighted for live performances due to their noiseless operation and ease of mixing, particularly beneficial in varied acoustic environments.

    Source

User experience

  • EMG pickups are noted for their low-mid heavy sound, particularly between 60Hz to 200Hz, which can be more pronounced when played with fingers rather than a pick.

    Source
  • Some users report that EMG pickups maintain their tonal characteristics across different bass models, providing a consistent sound regardless of the instrument used.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The solderless installation system is praised for ease of use, eliminating the need for soldering, which is beneficial for those inexperienced with electronics.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare EMG pickups to Seymour Duncan's 1/4#ers for their hotter output, while EMGs are noted for their clarity and noise reduction.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Kean uses EMG JA Set

Matt Kean

Bassist

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via Photo

As seen on EMG's website, Matt is one of their artists and uses these pickups.

Genre Usage

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