EMG155 vs EMG1736 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG SLV/SLV/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG SA is a single pickup for players who need to retrofit or upgrade one position, while the SLV/SLV/85 is a complete three-pickup HSS set ready to install. Choose the SA if you're replacing one pickup in an existing guitar; choose the SLV/SLV/85 set if you want a matched, professionally voiced trio.
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EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
EMG SLV/SLV/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG SLV/SLV/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $279.00 | $279.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Single-pickup replacement—no need to buy extras you don't need
- ✓ Focused 3.70 kHz resonance tuned specifically for tight rock and metal
- ✓ Simplest installation path for upgrading one position
Why choose EMG SLV/SLV/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Complete HSS set—neck and middle SLVs plus bridge EMG 85 humbucker
- ✓ Solderless wiring system speeds up installation dramatically
- ✓ Versatile across rock, hard rock, pop, and funk with one cohesive package
Frequently asked questions
Are these pickups the same noise level and output?
Yes. Both the SA and the SLV deliver 1.00V on single strings, 3.00V on strums, and −101 dB noise floor. The main difference is resonant frequency: SA is 3.70 kHz versus SLV at 3.33 kHz, making the SA slightly tighter and the SLV slightly punchier.
Do I need soldering skills for either?
The SA is a single pickup without wiring included. The SLV/SLV/85 set includes a solderless wiring harness and 5-position switch, so no soldering required.
Which is better for beginners?
The SLV/SLV/85 set is more beginner-friendly because it includes solderless installation, a complete signal chain, and coverage across rock, pop, and funk. The SA requires you to integrate it into an existing guitar wiring setup.
Can I use the SA in all three positions?
Yes, the SA is voiced for broad rock, metal, and fusion use. However, the SLV/SLV/85 set pairs two single coils with a humbucker for HSS tonal variety, which many players prefer over three identical pickups.