Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $283

High-end/Boutique

$99

$200+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "EMG Retro Active Pickups". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your guitar's tonal prowess with the EMG Retro Active Pickups, a harmonious blend of vintage warmth and modern clarity. These pickups are designed to capture the essence of iconic Stratocaster tones, drawing inspiration from legendary players like Beck, Clapton, and Hendrix. The dynamic response of these pickups ensures that every note is delivered with precision, while the active circuitry eliminates any unwanted hum or buzz.

Each of the three single-coil pickups is meticulously voiced with unique resonant frequencies, granting you a versatile palette of sounds. Whether you're strumming melodic blues or shredding intricate solos, these pickups offer a vivid tonal spectrum that balances beautifully across all five positions. The EMG Retro Active Pickups are not just about enhancing your sound; they are about redefining your musical expression with a seamless integration of past and future tonalities.

Perfect for both stage and studio, these pickups are an essential upgrade for any guitarist seeking to infuse their instrument with a distinct sonic character. Experience the power of vintage tones without sacrificing the benefits of modern technology, and let your guitar sing with newfound clarity and depth.

Key Features:

  • Prewired Stratocaster pickguard with 11-hole configuration
  • 3 RA-2 single-coil pickups, each uniquely voiced
  • Inspired by iconic tones from Beck, Clapton, and Hendrix
  • Dynamic response with a complete absence of hum or buzz

Product specs

Instrument Stratocaster
Type 3 x Crossroads Single-coil
Configuration SSS Pickguard Set
Active/Passive Active
Magnet Material Alnico II
Number of Conductors 2 wire plus battery
DC Resistance 3K
Number of Strings 6
Covering Covered

FAQs

What makes the EMG Retro Active Pickups suitable for Strat-style guitars?

The EMG Retro Active Pickups are designed specifically for Stratocaster-style guitars, featuring a pre-wired SSS configuration with Crossroads single-coils, ideal for capturing the classic Strat sound with modern active pickup benefits.

Are the EMG Retro Active Pickups active or passive?

The EMG Retro Active Pickups are active, providing a high-output signal and reduced noise, which is ideal for achieving a clear, powerful tone at various volume levels.

What type of magnet is used in the EMG Retro Active Pickups?

These pickups utilize Alnico II magnets, known for their warm and smooth tonal characteristics, which contribute to a vintage-inspired sound with enhanced sustain.

How do EMG Retro Active Pickups differ from traditional single-coil pickups?

Unlike traditional single-coil pickups, the EMG Retro Active Pickups offer the noise reduction and output consistency of active pickups while maintaining the classic single-coil tone, making them versatile for various musical styles.

Do I need a battery for the EMG Retro Active Pickups?

Yes, the EMG Retro Active Pickups require a 9-volt battery to power their active circuitry, ensuring optimal performance and tonal clarity.

EMGtv

EMGtv

EMG's new Retro Active pickups with Richie Faulkner

Video thumbnail for EMG's new Retro Active pickups with Richie Faulkner by EMGtv

EMG's new Retro Active pickups with Richie Faulkner

EMGtv

EMGtv

Video thumbnail for EMG founder Rob Turner talks Retro Active pickups by EMGtv

EMG founder Rob Turner talks Retro Active pickups

EMGtv

EMGtv

Video thumbnail for EMG Retro Active pickups with Mike Keneally by EMGtv

EMG Retro Active pickups with Mike Keneally

EMGtv

EMGtv

Reviews

Critic Reviews

EMG RetroActive Fat 55 pickup set review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

EMG's RetroActive Fat 55 pickup set marries classic passive humbucker vibes with the benefits of active pickups, offering superb noise reduction and a low impedance output. The blend of old-school construction with a modern preamp results in versatile tonal capabilities, from clean jazz to rock. Installation is a breeze with its solderless design, though ensure space for a 9-volt battery. While alternatives like Seymour Duncan's Duality exist, EMG's set stands out for its seamless classic look and passive sound, making it ideal for diverse style players. Few cons, mostly tied to aesthetics and battery space.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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ophir_fishman

Amazing Pickups

Indeed RETRO and yet a classic EMG sound

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jim Root uses EMG Retro Active Pickups

Jim Root

Guitarist

Slipknot

...
Verified via Instagram

He really likes them. Tracked "All Out Life" with them.

See how Richie Faulkner uses EMG Retro Active Pickups

Richie Faulkner

Guitarist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via YouTube

He is the first official artist to use these pickups according to the Emg site

See how Mike Keneally uses EMG Retro Active Pickups

Mike Keneally

Singer, Guitarist

Dethklok

...
Verified via YouTube

He demonstrates the brand new (2016) Super 77 set

Album Usage

The EMG Retro Active Pickups 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.

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