EMG1218 vs EMG2592 — Compare
EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup in White
The SA is a warmer, longer-lasting option with higher output and lower noise, while the SV prioritizes peak output voltage and a brighter response with staggered poles. The SA suits players who value battery longevity and extended studio sessions; the SV works better for players who need maximum clarity and don't mind frequent battery changes.
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Specs side by side
| EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup in White | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $105.00 | $105.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life versus 400 hours—drastically fewer replacements
- ✓ Higher strum output (3.00 V vs 1.0 V peak) for more aggressive playing dynamics
- ✓ Slightly warmer tone with traditional bar-magnet design
- ✓ Lower current draw (80 µA vs 660 µA) reduces power consumption
Why choose EMG SV Active Single Coil Pickup in White
- ✓ Exceptional noise floor at -115 dBV, 14 dB quieter than SA
- ✓ Brighter response via staggered Alnico V poles and lower resonant frequency (3.20 kHz)
- ✓ Lower output impedance (5.0 kΩ) minimizes high-frequency rolloff in long cable runs
- ✓ Higher RMS output (0.7 V) for consistent signal to pedals and preamps
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is quieter?
The SV is substantially quieter at -115 dBV compared to the SA's -101 dBV—a 14 dB advantage. This matters most in high-gain or heavily effects-laden setups.
How long will each battery last in real use?
The SA delivers approximately 3000 hours of typical use per 9V battery, while the SV provides around 400 hours. That's roughly 125 days versus 17 days of continuous operation—the SA is far more practical for frequent players.
Which has higher output for hitting an amp harder?
The SA produces 3.00 V peak output on aggressive strums versus the SV's 1.0 V peak, making the SA significantly louder and more aggressive. The SV compensates with a higher RMS specification (0.7 V) for steadier sustain.
Will either sound muddy through long cable runs?
The SV's 5.0 kΩ output impedance is lower than the SA's 10 kΩ, meaning the SV resists high-frequency loss better over cable lengths. For typical 20-foot runs, both are fine; the SV has the edge.