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EMG JAX Active Jazz Bass Pickup Set

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$183.00 to $199.00 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (1)

All time low price

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated June 17, 2026.

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4.8 (8)

$199.00

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1.0 (1)

$199.00 1 available New

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4.6 (11)

$184.00 $183.00 $1.00 · All time low

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Average Price: $194

Standard/Professional

$119

$200+

Price Tier

In the Bass Guitar Pickups category, EMG JAX Active Jazz Bass Pickup Set is priced in the upper end of the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "EMG JAX Active Jazz Bass Pickup Set". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

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Elevate your bass playing with the EMG JAX Active Jazz Bass Pickup Set, designed to deliver a rich and authentic vintage sound with modern versatility. This set includes two active J-style single coils crafted for 4-string electric basses, adding depth and clarity to every note. The pickups are enhanced by the X Series preamp, which offers a warm, open sound and extends your bass's frequency range with dynamic responsiveness.

Installation is a breeze with the solderless system, perfect for musicians who want to minimize downtime and maximize playtime. The AlNiCo 5 magnets play a pivotal role in achieving the classic tone, while the included components—such as the 2x 25 k volume pots and the 25 k active tone pot (VLPF)—grant you precise control over your sound. The pickups also feature a battery bus and stereo output jack, ensuring they are as reliable as they are expressive.

Whether you're playing in a low-lit jazz club or jamming in the studio, the EMG JAX set can adapt to any setting, providing the tonal richness and flexibility that professional bassists demand.

Key Features:

Set of 2 active J-style single coils for neck and bridge positions
X Series preamp for vintage sound with wide frequency range
Solderless installation system for easy setup
AlNiCo 5 magnet material
2x 25 k volume pot and 25 k active tone pot (VLPF)
Battery bus and stereo output jack
Includes mounting screws, pick-up cables, connection cables, output cable, and battery cable
Made in the USA

Product specs

Available since	June 2010
Active Pickup System	Yes
Wiring	Completely Wired
Colour	Black
Position	Bridge, Neck

FAQs

What makes the EMG JAX Active Jazz Bass Pickup Set unique?: The EMG JAX set features Alnico magnets and an active preamp, providing a warm, natural tone with enhanced clarity and punch. This combination is ideal for players seeking a versatile sound that can cut through in a mix while retaining the classic Jazz Bass character.
Are the EMG JAX pickups suitable for all genres of music?: Yes, the EMG JAX pickups are designed to handle a wide range of genres, from jazz and funk to rock and metal, thanks to their active electronics and balanced tonal response.
How do EMG JAX pickups compare to passive pickups in terms of output?: EMG JAX pickups offer higher output levels due to their active preamp, which provides more headroom and clarity compared to passive pickups, making them suitable for modern, high-gain applications.
Do the EMG JAX pickups require a battery?: Yes, as active pickups, the EMG JAX set requires a 9-volt battery to power the onboard preamp, ensuring consistent output and tonal quality.
Can I install the EMG JAX Active Jazz Bass Pickup Set myself?: The EMG JAX pickups come with a solderless installation system, making it easier for users to install them without professional help. However, basic understanding of guitar electronics is recommended for a smooth installation process.

Videos

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Pete M

Squier jazz bass EMG JAX pickups

Pete M

Bubinga Jazz Bass with new EMG JAX pickups

kolbola

EMG JAX Pickup Install & Comparison in a Lakland DJ4

udawggy

Reviews

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PROS

Easy installation with solderless connections and well-documented instructions
Offers a modern, dynamic Jazz Bass sound with extended frequency range
Produces a clean, precise output appreciated for its tonal clarity
Deep bass and enhanced upper harmonics, making them ideal for roundwound strings
Active pickups provide a lively, sensitive response to playing nuances
Suitable for various music styles, including thrash metal
Excellent sustain and depth in tonal character
Works well with additional EQ options for more sound customization

CONS

Requires a battery, adding complexity to installation
Inadequate nut quantity for securing potentiometers during installation
The tone might be too warm and lacking punch for some preferences
Incompatibility with certain custom or aftermarket control knobs
Discrepancy in sound quality when used on different basses despite being the same model
Extra tools and skill needed for battery compartment routing in some setups

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

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The EMG JAX set utilizes a solderless plug system, easing installation for those inexperienced with soldering, reducing risks of damaging components.
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Dingwall's pickup selector switch is suggested for simplifying wiring configurations, recommending a four-knob setup for comprehensive control.
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Setup and maintenance

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Some users reported potential wiring issues with the quick-connect system that weren't addressed in instructions, recommending double-checking connections during installation.
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User experience

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The EMG pickups often provide a compressed sound, which some find beneficial for consistent tone, though it may lack the dynamic response of passive pickups.
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Mods and upgrades

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Using an 18v power setup with EMGs can increase headroom, providing a more dynamic sound for those seeking it.
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To achieve a beefier sound, some users suggest wiring pickups in series, which can enhance the growl and power of the bass tone.
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A user integrated Nordstrand Big J Blades with a Darkglass Tone Capsule in a Warwick Corvette, enhancing its sonic character significantly.
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Owners have successfully installed series/parallel switches for increased tonal flexibility, with some recommending a push-pull volume knob for active/passive switching.
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Use cases and applications

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EMG active pickups are noted for their clarity and noise-free performance, making them especially suitable for live settings where a clean signal is crucial.
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EMG JAX pickups are highlighted for their suitability in achieving a growly funk tone, making them a preferred choice for funk bassists looking to enhance their sound.
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Some players find the stock passive MEC pickups with a MEC 60013 pre-amp to record well, despite not being in love with the live sound.
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Comparisons

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Some players prefer the tonal variety of EMGs in a P/J setup, using both J pickups for a Marcus Miller-esque tone, though the J pickup might need raising for balanced volume.
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EMG JAX pickups are recommended for those seeking a punchy, growly funk tone, offering more power while maintaining clarity compared to some other active pickup options.
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The Nordstrand Big J Blades are highlighted for compatibility with Warwick Corvette models without modification, offering an alternative to EMG pickups.
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