EMG DG20 David Gilmour Single Pickup

EMG DG20 David Gilmour — Prewired Active Pickguard for Stratocaster

The EMG DG20 David Gilmour pickup set is a complete, factory-prewired pickguard system that transforms any ST-style guitar into a faithful recreation of the iconic red Strat sound. This Pro Series kit pairs three Alnico-loaded EMG SA single-coil pickups with an active EQ circuit for hum-free, dynamic tone. Installation is plug-and-play thanks to EMG's solderless install system.

What Sets the DG20 Apart From Other Strat Pickup Sets

Unlike conventional passive replacements, the DG20 ships as a fully populated control assembly on a custom 11-hole 3-ply pickguard, complete with a 5-way selector, volume pot, and the signature EXG and SPC tone-shaping circuits. Alnico V magnets inside each SA pickup deliver a vintage-leaning single-coil voice with the focused, slightly compressed character that cuts through a dense mix.

Pickup Configuration — SSS Layout With Active Preamp

The pickup layout follows the classic SSS Stratocaster format, with one EMG SA in the bridge, middle, and neck positions. Each pickup is stacked and hum-cancelling, eliminating the 60-cycle hum that plagues traditional single coils.

• Pickup Configuration: SSS — 3× EMG SA single-coil — bridge, middle, and neck coverage
• Active Circuit: Yes, 9V battery powered — onboard preamp eliminates noise floor

Onboard EQ — EXG Expander and SPC Presence Control

Rather than standard tone pots, the DG20 uses two interactive EQ controls. The EXG Guitar Expander lifts bass and treble while reducing upper mids, and the SPC Presence Control delivers a broad midrange boost.

• EXG Guitar Expander: Bass + treble boost with upper-mid scoop — adds body and air to clean passages
• SPC Presence Control: Broad midrange lift — cuts through the mix for solo voice

Pickguard and Compatibility — Drop-In Fit for ST-Style Guitars

The system arrives prewired on a custom 11-hole 3-ply pickguard, available in White Pearl with ivory pickups, Eclipse (black pickguard with ivory pickups), or Total Eclipse (all black).

• Pickguard Format: Custom 11-hole, 3-ply — direct drop-in for most Stratocaster bodies
• Switching: 5-way toggle — full classic Strat pickup combinations