EMG3081 vs EMG3085 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The SA/SA/81 is a single pickup unit with Alnico V magnets and 3000-hour battery life, while the S/S/81 is a full three-pickup configuration (two single-coils plus an 81 humbucker) with 1000-hour battery life. The SA/SA/81 suits players upgrading one position or building a minimalist setup; the S/S/81 is for those needing a complete, versatile pickup system.
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EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $289.00 | $289.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life versus 1000 hours—four months of daily use before replacement
- ✓ Alnico V magnet for responsive dynamics and pick sensitivity
- ✓ Lower output impedance integration with standard electronics
- ✓ Single-unit simplicity—ideal for targeted upgrades or single-pickup instruments
Why choose EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Three-pickup complete system (neck, middle, bridge) covers all positions with one purchase
- ✓ Ceramic single-coils paired with 81 humbucker bridge for tonal versatility
- ✓ Full-range tonal palette from articulate highs to aggressive lows in one setup
- ✓ Professional-grade configuration ready for metal, hard rock, and progressive styles
Frequently asked questions
What's the actual difference between these two products?
The SA/SA/81 is one single-coil pickup with an Alnico V magnet. The S/S/81 is a complete three-pickup set: two ceramic single-coils (neck and middle) plus an 81 humbucker bridge pickup. They are not interchangeable products.
Which lasts longer on a battery?
The SA/SA/81 provides 3000 hours (approximately four months of daily use) compared to the S/S/81's 1000 hours. The single-unit SA/SA/81 draws less total current and delivers significantly longer runtime.
Are these suited to the same musical styles?
Both excel in rock, hard rock, and metal. The SA/SA/81 emphasizes articulate highs and upper-midrange cut for rhythm definition. The S/S/81 balances articulate highs with aggressive lows across three positions, making it better for progressive and djent players who need tonal range.
Which requires more installation work?
The SA/SA/81 is a drop-in replacement for a single pickup cavity. The S/S/81 requires three separate installations and demands verification that your guitar has both single-coil routes (neck and middle) and a humbucker cavity (bridge).