Active pickups are a type of guitar pickup that incorporates an onboard preamp powered by a battery, usually a 9-volt, to boost the guitar’s signal before it reaches an amplifier.

This preamp enhances the pickup’s output, resulting in a stronger and more consistent signal compared to passive pickups.

The increased signal strength allows active pickups to drive amplifiers and effects pedals more efficiently, making them particularly popular in high-gain music genres like metal and hard rock.

Additionally, the preamp in active pickups ensures that the tone remains consistent across various volume levels, preventing the loss of high frequencies that can occur when rolling back the volume knob on passive pickups.

Active pickups are also known for their reduced noise levels, offering a cleaner signal with minimal hum or interference.

This makes them ideal for studio recording and live performances where clarity is essential. The preamp can also extend the frequency response, providing a wider range of tones with enhanced lows and highs, contributing to a more modern and articulate sound.

However, active pickups require a battery to function, which necessitates periodic replacement. Despite this, they are favoured by many guitarists for their ability to produce powerful, clear tones.

Brands like EMG and Fishman are renowned for manufacturing high-quality active pickups that are widely used by professional musicians.

While active pickups offer many tonal advantages, some players prefer the traditional, warm sound of passive pickups for styles like blues and jazz.