Seymour Duncan ASB2-5B Active Soapbar 5-String Bridge Pickup

The ASB2-5B delivers aggressive, punchy midrange with the clarity of a single-coil design and none of the hum—a combination that cuts through dense mixes and sits perfectly in aggressive playing styles. Built as a direct replacement for the EMG 40, this active bridge pickup brings serious output and defined attack to 5-string bass rigs. The split-blade design ensures tight, articulate response This driving hard into a preamp or pushing pedals to their limit.

Tone & Output

The heightened midrange presence with a slightly harder attack character makes this pickup excel at delivering definition and punch rather than warmth. High output pairs with the ceramic magnet design to produce aggressive, cutting tone ideal for modern bass styles where clarity and edge matter most.

Active Electronics & Build

Active circuitry requires approximately 1,000 continuous hours per battery set, with simple 2-conductor cable connectivity for straightforward installation. Manufactured in the USA, the pickup uses a Phase II/EMG Soapbar form factor and black finish, making it a direct swap into bass cavities designed for standard 5-string soapbar pickups.

Key Features

• 5-string bass bridge pickup
• Active design with high output
• Ceramic magnet type
• Split-blade design delivers single-coil punch without hum
• Heightened mid-range with slightly harder attack
• Phase II/EMG Soapbar size
• 2-Conductor connection cable
• Approximately 1,000 continuous hours battery life per set
• Direct EMG 40 replacement
• Black finish
• Made in USA

The ASB2-5B combines American engineering with the aggression and articulation needed for bass players who demand cutting tone and reliable performance.