Understanding Active Bass Pickups: Noise Reduction and Enhanced Sound Quality
Active bass pickups have revolutionized the way bassists approach their music, offering higher fidelity and cleaner tones. Unlike passive pickups, which are dependent on the bass's own inherent signal, active pickups incorporate a preamp to boost the signal before it reaches the amplifier. This article will explore the benefits of active bass pickups, particularly focusing on well-known manufacturers like EMG and Bartolini.
What are Active Bass Pickups?
Active bass pickups differ from their passive counterparts by including a preamplifier circuit within the pickup itself. The preamp amplifies the low-level signal from the pickup, reducing noise and improving clarity. This preamplification occurs before the signal even reaches the amplifier, which is why these pickups are referred to as 'active'.
Why Choose Active Pickups?
Active bass pickups provide several advantages over passive pickups:
Better Tone Quality: Active pickups can deliver a cleaner, more defined tone with less hum and interference. This is particularly noticeable when using high-gain amplifiers. Flexibility: The built-in preamp allows for greater tonal control and more adjustable settings, such as midrange and treble sweeps. Noise Reduction: Unlike passive pickups, which can pick up stray electromagnetic interference more easily, active pickups effectively reduce background noise, especially from low-ceiling plugging and nearby electrical devices. Signal Boost: Active pickups provide an immediate boost in signal strength, making them ideal for longer cable runs and less audible degradation in tone.Key Manufacturers: EMG and Bartolini
Two of the most recognized brands in the field of active bass pickups are EMG and Bartolini. Both companies have established a reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable pickups.
EMG Pickups
EMG, based in Santa Barbara, California, is renowned for its technological advances in bass pickup design. The company's active pickups are favored in professional and high-end applications due to their:
Clear Tone: EMG pickups are known for producing a bright and clear tone, especially with the EMG 81 pickup which is designed for more electric guitar-like tones. Dependency on Batteries: They require a power source, such as batteries, which must be periodically replaced. This can be seen as an ongoing cost but also an indicator of the quality of the preamp circuitry. Design Variants: EMG offers a range of active pickups tailored to different bass guitar models and styles, from the classic EMG 85 to the more rugged EMG 85 DS and WM2 series. Reviews and User Feedback: EMG pickups are well-regarded by many bassists for their reliability and tonal consistency across various playing environments and settings.Bartolini Pickups
Bartolini bass pickups are another notable brand, widely regarded for their versatile sound quality and dependability. Here are some highlights:
Versatility: Bartolini's active pickups are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of bass types, including Fenders, Jazz basses, and others. The Bartolini BT200 Series is particularly popular. Constructive Insights: Many users appreciate the quality and reliability of Bartolini pickups, noting their consistent performance across different playing styles and jazz basses. Quality Assurance: Known for their robust construction and long-lasting performance, Bartolini's active pickups are favored by both beginners and seasoned professionals. Community Endorsements: Bartolini pickups often receive positive reviews from players who appreciate their tonal clarity and coherence. Brand Reputation: The company has a strong track record in the music industry, and numerous bassists swear by their pickups, making them a trusted choice.Conclusion
Active bass pickups represent a significant advancement in bass guitar technology, offering clearer, more dynamic tones and superior low noise designs. Manufacturers like EMG and Bartolini have set benchmarks in this field, providing bassists with a range of options to enhance their musical experience. Whether you're looking for bright and punchy tones like those offered by EMG or versatile, reliable pickups like those from Bartolini, there's a solution to suit your musical needs.