EMG2917 vs EMG7946 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in White vs EMG Crossroads-7 Retro Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
The EMG SA is a single pickup solution optimized for aggressive high-gain playing and studio work, while the Crossroads-7 Retro is a voiced three-pickup set designed specifically for seven-string guitars with balanced tonal response across positions. Choose the SA for versatile single-coil punch; choose the Crossroads-7 Retro if you play extended-range instruments and need position-specific voicing.
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EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
EMG Crossroads-7 Retro Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in White | EMG Crossroads-7 Retro Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $289.00 | $279.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
- ✓ Single pickup for retrofits or custom builds without multi-pickup commitment
- ✓ Alnico V magnet yields brighter treble and snappier attack
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life per cell—double the Crossroads-7 Retro
- ✓ Lower current draw at 80 microamps maximizes power efficiency
Why choose EMG Crossroads-7 Retro Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Three-piece matched set voices neck, mid, and bridge positions distinctly
- ✓ Purpose-built for seven-string instruments with extended-range clarity
- ✓ Alnico 2 magnets deliver warmer vintage character with controlled sustain
- ✓ Extremely low noise floor at -103 dB ensures clarity even in complex arrangements
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for metal and progressive playing?
The Crossroads-7 Retro is designed specifically for extended-range and progressive applications. Its three-position voicing and flat pole pieces provide tight, controlled response ideal for complex riffing on seven-string guitars. The SA works for high-gain on standard six-string guitars but lacks the extended-range optimization.
What's the noise difference between them?
The Crossroads-7 Retro has a lower noise floor at -103 dB versus the SA's -101 dB—a marginal 2 dB difference that is negligible in real-world use. Both are extremely quiet for active pickups in high-gain applications.
Can I use the SA as a replacement in a seven-string guitar?
The SA is a single pickup, not a set, so it cannot fully outfit a seven-string instrument. The Crossroads-7 Retro is purpose-built as a three-piece set with resonant frequencies voiced for each position on extended-range guitars.
Which has better battery life?
The SA delivers 3000 hours per battery cell compared to the Crossroads-7 Retro's 830 hours, primarily because the SA draws less current (80 microamps versus 630 microamps). If minimizing battery changes is important, the SA is the clear winner.