Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
4.0 (3)
$199.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$199.00
Amazon
4.2 (14)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$166.80 New
$129.95 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (7)
$199.00
Thomann
4.8 (85)
$155.00 $153.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $178

Standard/Professional

$119

$200+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black is a versatile and potent combination of EMG P-X and EMG LJ-X active bass pickups. This dynamic duo provides a rich, warm low-end punch from the P-X and a tight mid-range punch with a dynamic high-end response from the LJ-X. Whether you're looking to lay down some tight slap funk or smooth Motown groove, this set has got you covered.

The true beauty of this set lies in its versatility. Each pickup can be used separately or in combination, allowing you to cater to both new and traditional bass playing styles. The result? A unique bass sound that sets you apart from the crowd.

Experience the thrill of the "X" factor that's got bass players worldwide buzzing. This easy-to-install pickup set comes with EMG's exclusive solderless Quik-Connect system, solid shaft volume/active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, and adjustment screws.

Key Features:

  • Combines EMG P-X and LJ-X active bass pickups
  • Offers warmth, low-end punch, tight mid-range punch, and dynamic high-end response
  • Accommodates both new and traditional bass playing styles
  • Includes EMG's exclusive solderless Quik-Connect system
  • Comes with solid shaft volume/active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, adjustment screws
  • Ideal for 4-string bass guitars with standard PJ milling
  • Newly developed preamp with open and dynamic sound concept

Product specs

Type Set: Single-coil
Format PJ
Active/Passive Active
Magnet Material Ceramic
Number of Strings 4
DC Resistance 2K
Number of Conductors 2 wire plus battery (bridge), 4 wire plus battery (middle)
Features Solderless, Split-coil (middle)

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set?

The EMG PJ Set offers a balanced sound with brilliant high-end articulation, warmth, and a punchy low end, thanks to its ceramic magnets and active design. It's suitable for a range of music styles, providing clarity and definition.

Are the EMG PJ Set pickups suitable for a 4-string bass?

Yes, the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set is specifically designed for 4-string bass guitars, ensuring optimal performance and fit.

How does the installation of the EMG PJ Set work?

The EMG PJ Set features a solderless installation system, making it easy to install without the need for soldering tools. This user-friendly design simplifies the upgrade process for bass players.

What is the advantage of the active design in the EMG PJ Set pickups?

The active design of the EMG PJ Set pickups provides increased output, reduced noise, and enhanced dynamic range, making them ideal for players seeking clarity and power in their bass sound.

Can the EMG PJ Set be used for genres like rock or metal?

Yes, the EMG PJ Set is well-suited for genres such as rock and metal due to its powerful output and clear articulation, which cut through dense mixes and high-gain settings effectively.

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The EMG PX with ceramic magnets is noted for a much brighter sound compared to the PAX, even with some tone rolled off.

    Source
  • The variable Midrange control is noted as effective but may not be preferred over bass/treble or EXB controls for some users.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Utilizing an 18V setup rather than 9V is recommended for maintaining punch and clarity, as 9V systems may lose performance as battery voltage sags.

    Source
  • The Dimarzio Relentless pickups can be paired with the Area J (dp248) for a balanced sound, despite the Areas being discontinued.

    Source

User experience

  • Users have reported that with 18V systems, batteries sound optimal until they completely die, whereas 9V systems gradually lose punch.

    Source
  • An owner of the active PJ5 set in a Squier Mustang V reports a sound profile that is big, loud, and crystal clear, showcasing the pickups' ability to handle volume and clarity well.

    Source
  • EMG pickups are noted for their solderless installation, simplifying the upgrade process for those less experienced with soldering.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EMG X series is praised for greater dynamics compared to the regular PA, influencing user preference for active P-bass setups.

    Source
  • The DiMarzio Model PJ pickups are described as super hot and aggressive ceramics, offering a stark contrast to the lifeless sound some experience with the Geezer PJ set.

    Source
  • Nordstrand pickups are recommended for those seeking an alternative with a different tonal character compared to Aguilar's vintage sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For a Black Sabbath cover band, the Geezer PJ set seems appropriate, yet versatility across genres might be better achieved with alternative sets like the DiMarzio Model PJs.

    Source
  • Aguilar pickups are suggested for those desiring an alnico vintage sound, ideal for players leaning towards classic rock or blues genres.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Mike Starr uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Mike Starr

Bassist

Alice in Chains

...
Verified via Photo

Mike Starr used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his Spector NS-2 bass, as these were the stock pickups at the time, as evidenced by the image proof provided.

See how Robert DeLeo uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Robert DeLeo

Guitarist, Bassist

Stone Temple Pilots

...
Verified via Photo

Robert DeLeo used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black in the early 2000s with Stone Temple Pilots, as evidenced by his earlier signature models featuring this configuration based on his equipment at that time. This usage is corroborated by the image captured at Town Fair, which shows DeLeo with his bass guitar equipped with these pickups.

See how Doug Wimbish uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Doug Wimbish

Bassist

Living Colour

...
Verified via Photo

Doug Wimbish is known for using the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his main Spector bass, which eventually became his signature instrument. This is supported by a photo showing him performing solo in a bass clinic.

See how Mike Mills uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Mike Mills

Guitarist, Bassist

R.E.M.

...
Verified

In the mid-1980s, Mike Mills used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his Guild Pilot bass. This is evidenced by photographs from the era, where the EMG logo is visible on the pickups.

See how Zeta Bosio uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Zeta Bosio

Bassist

Soda Stereo

...
Verified via Photo

Zeta Bosio uses the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his Guild Pilot bass as they were the stock pickups, evidenced by the visible EMG logo on one of the pickups in an accompanying photo.

See how Diego Arnedo uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Diego Arnedo

Guitarist, Bassist

Sumo

...
Verified via Instagram

Diego Arnedo has been seen using the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his main heavily modified Precision bass during the early days of Divididos, as indicated in an Instagram reel by @nosoydiegoarnedo.

See how John Moyer uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

John Moyer

Singer, Bassist

Disturbed

...
Verified via Photo

John Moyer is confirmed to use the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, as evidenced by a photograph of him performing live on stage at the Alsterdorfer Sporthalle in Hamburg, Germany, on April 28, 2019, where he can be seen playing his 4-string Spector bass equipped with these pickups.

See how Tommy Stinson uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Tommy Stinson

Singer, Bassist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via Photo

Tommy Stinson has been confirmed to use the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, as evidenced by their presence on his signature bass and his status as an EMG artist. This usage dates back to at least his time with Guns N' Roses, as shown in the provided image.

See how Chris Joannou uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Chris Joannou

Bassist

Silverchair

...
Verified via YouTube

Chris Joannou used a Spector NS-2 bass equipped with the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black during the Freak Show tour, as evidenced by a live performance at Pinkpop 1997, documented by the Pinkpop Archive on YouTube.

See how Rachel Bolan uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Rachel Bolan

Bassist

Skid Row

...
Verified

Rachel has been a long time user of Spector NS-2 basses with an EMG PJ set

See how Jennifer Finch uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Jennifer Finch

Bassist

L7

...
Verified via Photo

Jennifer Finch uses the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on her "Ghost" bass. This is confirmed by the visible EMG logo on the pickups in a photograph from her archive and her mention of the pickups being active on her blog.

See how Heath uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Heath

Guitarist, Bassist

X Japan

...
Verified via Photo

Heath used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his Burny (Fernandes) bass during the 1990s with X Japan. This is evidenced by a promo image where the EMG logo is visible on the pickups, as seen in a tribute post on Reddit.

Album Usage

The EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black has been featured on the following albums:

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 PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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