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EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 89R Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 89 uses a stacked-coil design for mode switching, while the EMG 89R employs reverse-wound coils with separate preamps for cleaner noise rejection and warmer resonance. The 89R suits players prioritizing noise floor and tonal warmth across both modes; the 89 is ideal for those wanting straightforward versatility at a slightly lower operational complexity.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | EMG 89R Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Simpler stacked-coil architecture with fewer internal components
- ✓ Compact single-pickup housing design
- ✓ Solderless installation with Quik-Connect cable included
- ✓ Delivers both single-coil and humbucker modes from one unit
Why choose EMG 89R Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Superior noise rejection: –99 dBV in humbucker mode vs. specification not detailed for 89
- ✓ Reverse-wound coils with separate preamps for warmer, more resonant response
- ✓ Lower single-coil mode noise floor at –94 dBV with distinct resonant peaks
- ✓ Better suited for both bridge and neck positions due to dual-preamp design
Frequently asked questions
What is the main technical difference between the 89 and 89R?
The 89 uses a stacked-coil design to achieve both single-coil and humbucker modes, while the 89R employs reverse-wound coils with separate preamps. This gives the 89R independent noise characteristics and resonant frequencies for each mode.
Which pickup has a lower noise floor?
The 89R delivers –99 dBV noise in humbucker mode and –94 dBV in single-coil mode. The original 89 does not publish specific noise floor measurements, making the 89R the better choice for noise-critical applications.
Are both pickups suitable for beginners?
The 89 is listed for beginner through professional skill levels. The 89R is rated intermediate and above, reflecting its more sophisticated preamp architecture and dual-mode tuning.
How do output levels compare?
Both deliver 1.0V RMS in humbucker mode and 0.6V RMS in single-coil mode, so output levels are identical. The difference lies in noise rejection and resonant response characteristics.