Does the DG20 set require a battery?

Yes, as an active pickup system, it requires a 9-volt battery to power the internal preamps and the EXG/SPC modules.

What does the EXG Guitar Expander do?

The EXG Guitar Expander is an active circuit that increases both the treble and bass frequencies simultaneously, providing a broader frequency response.

What is the function of the SPC control?

The SPC (Strat Presence Control) acts as a mid-boost, increasing the mid-range frequencies and output to give the single-coils a thicker, humbucker-like character.

Is the DG20 set pre-wired?

Yes, the system comes fully mounted and pre-wired on a pickguard with a five-way selector and three control dials for easy installation.

Which artist is this pickup set associated with?

The DG20 was designed in direct collaboration with David Gilmour of Pink Floyd to replicate his specific tonal requirements.

Can I install this on a guitar other than a Stratocaster?

While designed for Stratocaster-style guitars, installation on other models would require significant modification to the body and pickguard fitment.

What is the typical price for the DG20 set?

The typical retail price for the set is approximately £274, depending on the retailer.

Does this set produce a lot of hum?

No, because these are active EMG pickups, they are designed to be extremely quiet and resistant to electromagnetic interference and 60-cycle hum.

What color are the pickup covers in the DG20 set?

The standard DG20 set typically features ivory-coloured pickup covers and control knobs, matching David Gilmour's famous red Stratocaster setup.

How many control knobs does the DG20 have?

It features three knobs: one master volume, one EXG expander control, and one SPC presence control.

Is the pickguard included in the box?

Yes, the manufacturer description notes that the system is mounted on a pickguard that can be fitted quickly and easily.

Gear article

EMG David Gilmour DG20 Pickup Set

The EMG DG20 is a pre-wired signature pickup system designed in collaboration with Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour. It features three SA active single-coil pickups and custom electronics designed to replicate the specific tonal characteristics heard on iconic recordings and live performances.

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Background and Design

The EMG DG20 Pickup Set was developed as a collaborative effort between EMG and David Gilmour to provide a comprehensive solution for guitarists seeking his distinct mid-to-late career tone. Unlike traditional passive pickups, this system utilizes active circuitry to achieve a high-fidelity sound with reduced noise. The set is traditionally mounted on a pre-wired pickguard, simplifying the installation process for Stratocaster-style guitars.

Technical Specifications

The system consists of three ivory-coloured EMG SA single-coil pickups, which utilize Alnico V magnets. These are managed by a five-way selector switch and a unique control layout. Rather than two standard tone pots, the DG20 includes two active circuits: the EXG Guitar Expander and the SPC Presence Control. The EXG increases both high and low frequencies, while the SPC boosts the mid-range and gain, effectively giving the single-coils a response closer to a humbucker.

Sound Character

The primary characteristic of the DG20 is its versatility and clarity. In its neutral setting, the SA pickups provide a clean, transparent tone with high definition. By engaging the EXG Guitar Expander, the user can achieve a 'scooped' sound with enhanced rawness and shimmer. The system is designed to provide 'all-conquering' tone that remains articulate even when used with heavy effects chains or high-gain amplification.

Installation and Compatibility

EMG provides the DG20 as a drop-in replacement system. The pickups, five-way switch, and control dials are pre-mounted on a pickguard. This design allows for quick installation into standard routing, though users should ensure their guitar cavity has sufficient room for the 9-volt battery required to power the active circuitry.

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Frequently asked questions

What pickups are included in the EMG DG20 set?: The set includes three EMG SA active single-coil pickups, which utilize Alnico V magnets for a classic but high-output sound.
Does the DG20 set require a battery?: Yes, as an active pickup system, it requires a 9-volt battery to power the internal preamps and the EXG/SPC modules.
What does the EXG Guitar Expander do?: The EXG Guitar Expander is an active circuit that increases both the treble and bass frequencies simultaneously, providing a broader frequency response.
What is the function of the SPC control?: The SPC (Strat Presence Control) acts as a mid-boost, increasing the mid-range frequencies and output to give the single-coils a thicker, humbucker-like character.
Is the DG20 set pre-wired?: Yes, the system comes fully mounted and pre-wired on a pickguard with a five-way selector and three control dials for easy installation.
Which artist is this pickup set associated with?: The DG20 was designed in direct collaboration with David Gilmour of Pink Floyd to replicate his specific tonal requirements.
Can I install this on a guitar other than a Stratocaster?: While designed for Stratocaster-style guitars, installation on other models would require significant modification to the body and pickguard fitment.
What is the typical price for the DG20 set?: The typical retail price for the set is approximately £274, depending on the retailer.
Does this set produce a lot of hum?: No, because these are active EMG pickups, they are designed to be extremely quiet and resistant to electromagnetic interference and 60-cycle hum.
What color are the pickup covers in the DG20 set?: The standard DG20 set typically features ivory-coloured pickup covers and control knobs, matching David Gilmour's famous red Stratocaster setup.
How many control knobs does the DG20 have?: It features three knobs: one master volume, one EXG expander control, and one SPC presence control.
Is the pickguard included in the box?: Yes, the manufacturer description notes that the system is mounted on a pickguard that can be fitted quickly and easily.