EMG1506 vs EMG2097 — Compare
EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett Pro Series Pickups 81 + SS HSS vs EMG S/S/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The KH20 is a signature metal system with ceramic magnets and tight, controlled aggression, while the S/S/89 is a versatile three-pickup set with AlNiCo 5 magnets suited to pop, funk, rock, and metal. The KH20 suits players committed to metal tones; the S/S/89 suits those wanting flexibility across multiple genres.
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EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett Pro Series Pickups 81 + SS HSS
EMG S/S/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett Pro Series Pickups 81 + SS HSS | EMG S/S/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.00 | $299.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Pickup Type | Set | — |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett Pro Series Pickups 81 + SS HSS
- ✓ Signature Kirk Hammett system with proven metal credibility
- ✓ Ceramic magnets deliver tight low end and searing harmonics
- ✓ Pre-wired on custom pickguard—minimal assembly required
- ✓ HSS configuration covers lead and rhythm in one setup
Why choose EMG S/S/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Three-piece set covers neck, middle, and bridge positions
- ✓ AlNiCo 5 magnets provide warm, responsive tone across genres
- ✓ Solderless quick-connect system allows future modifications
- ✓ Versatile for pop, funk, rock, and metal without sacrificing clarity
Frequently asked questions
Which is easier to install?
The KH20 comes pre-wired on a custom pickguard, requiring only mounting. The S/S/89 uses a solderless quick-connect system that also avoids permanent modifications, making both beginner-friendly but in different ways.
Can I use either for non-metal genres?
The KH20 is optimized for metal and hard rock; it excels in those genres but is not ideal for jazz, blues, or folk. The S/S/89 is specifically voiced for pop, funk, rock, and metal, making it the better choice for stylistic variety.
What is the key tonal difference between ceramic and AlNiCo 5 magnets?
Ceramic magnets (KH20) deliver tight, controlled, high-output tone with searing clarity suited to metal. AlNiCo 5 magnets (S/S/89) provide warm, responsive tone with articulate, noise-free character that adapts across multiple genres.
How many pickups does each set include?
The KH20 is an HSS configuration with one 81 humbucker and two single coils. The S/S/89 is a full three-piece set with two single coils and one bridge 89 element, covering all standard positions.