EMG1783 vs EMG1803 — Compare
EMG KH21 Active Pickup in Black vs EMG SLV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
The KH21 is a dual-humbucker system engineered for high-gain metal and hard rock with aggressive midrange punch, while the SLV is a three-piece single-coil set designed for studio versatility, funk, pop, and indie with transparent clarity and dynamic responsiveness. Choose the KH21 if you play heavy music and need articulate crunch; choose the SLV if you record in studios or play styles that benefit from single-coil character.
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EMG SLV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG KH21 Active Pickup in Black | EMG SLV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $269.00 | $269.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG KH21 Active Pickup in Black
- ✓ Dual EMG-81 ceramic humbuckers optimized for extreme gain and tight low end
- ✓ High output voltage (4.50V on full strums) cuts through dense mixes in metal
- ✓ Pre-wired pickguard assembly mounts directly to Strat-style bodies—no routing needed
- ✓ Exceptional battery life (1500 hours per charge) with only 150 microamps draw
Why choose EMG SLV Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Three-piece single-coil set covers all positions with balanced Alnico V response
- ✓ Solderless wiring system requires no soldering—true plug-and-play installation
- ✓ Transparent midrange and high clarity ideal for studio recording and mixed genres
- ✓ Responsive to pick attack and finger dynamics for expressive, nuanced playing
Frequently asked questions
Can the KH21 work for genres outside metal?
The KH21 is specifically engineered for high-gain playing and is not ideal for jazz, blues, or clean tones. Its aggressive midrange punch and tight character are optimized for metal and hard rock. If you need versatility across multiple genres, the SLV is a better choice.
What's the main tonal difference between these pickups?
The KH21 uses dual humbuckers with ceramic magnets and close aperture coils for aggressive, punchy midrange and minimal noise under extreme gain. The SLV uses single coils with Alnico V poles for transparent, articulate tone with high clarity that responds to dynamics. Humbuckers are thicker and more focused; single coils are brighter and more responsive.
Which is easier to install?
The SLV's solderless wiring system is easier for most players—no soldering required and all cables come pre-assembled. The KH21 requires no routing but does mount via an 11-hole pickguard assembly, so installation depends on your guitar's configuration and comfort level with wiring.
Will either of these pickups hum?
Both use active circuitry to eliminate electromagnetic noise. The KH21 achieves a -91 dB noise floor with dual EMG-81s; the SLV uses active electronics to eliminate hum from its single-coil design. Neither will produce typical single-coil hum when properly installed.