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EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG HA Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG 81 is a high-output aggressive humbucker designed for metal and hard rock, while the EMG HA is a quieter, lower-output noiseless single-coil voiced for studio work and vintage tones. Choose the 81 for cutting, punchy rock and metal; choose the HA for clean recording and blues-based genres.
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EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG HA Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG HA Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.00 | $109.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Nearly 2x output voltage (1.25V RMS vs 0.6V RMS) for aggressive, cutting tone
- ✓ Tight low-end response and focused midrange aggression ideal for metal and hard rock
- ✓ Ceramic magnet delivers direct, articulate attack with strong string definition
Why choose EMG HA Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Noiseless active design eliminates single-coil hum for studio-quiet operation
- ✓ Alnico magnet provides vintage clarity and transparent response across dynamics
- ✓ Controlled output and upper-midrange focus suited to jazz, blues, and recording applications
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has more output, and does it matter?
The EMG 81 delivers 1.25V RMS compared to the HA's 0.6V RMS—more than twice as much. Higher output drives amp input stages harder, creating more saturation and sustain favored in metal and rock; the HA's lower output maintains clean dynamics better for studio and jazz contexts.
What's the main tonal difference between these pickups?
The 81 is centered at 2.25 kHz (tight, midrange-focused aggression) while the HA peaks at 3.75 kHz (upper-midrange clarity). The 81 sounds thick and punchy; the HA sounds articulate and transparent.
Are both suitable for the same skill levels?
Yes—both list intermediate, advanced, and professional players. However, the 81 excels in high-gain amplification where its output prevents mud, while the HA shines in clean and slightly-overdriven tones where clarity matters.
Do they use the same power and installation specs?
Both feature 9V active circuits with 3000-hour battery life, 80 microamp draw, 10 kΩ impedance, solderless wiring, and long-shaft construction. The HA includes a volume/tone control set; the 81 spec sheet does not mention this accessory.