EMG3342 vs EMG3347 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG SAX/SAX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The SA is tuned for clean tones and lead definition with a tighter, more focused upper-midrange (3.70 kHz peak), while the SAX prioritizes bright midrange punch and crisp articulation suited to rock and high-gain contexts. Choose the SA for studio clarity and finger-picked definition; choose the SAX for rock, funk, and overdrive applications.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
EMG SAX/SAX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG SAX/SAX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $329.00 | $329.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Tighter, more articulate output with strong upper-midrange snap
- ✓ Lower output voltage (0.6 V RMS) preserves dynamic responsiveness for clean tones
- ✓ Optimized for lead definition and cutting through mixes without harshness
- ✓ Excellent for studio recording and live performance across varied genres
Why choose EMG SAX/SAX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Brighter, punchier midrange character tailored for rock and funk
- ✓ Higher output level delivers more sustain for overdrive and distortion
- ✓ Oil-filled coil construction adds durability in heavy-use scenarios
- ✓ Better suited to high-gain applications while maintaining note separation
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup works better for clean, finger-picked tones?
The SA is purpose-built for clean tones with its 3.70 kHz resonant peak and lower 0.6 V RMS output, delivering articulate snap without overdriving your preamp. The SAX's brighter midrange and higher output lean toward driven, rock-oriented applications.
Can either pickup handle high-gain and distortion?
The SAX is specifically designed for moderate to high-gain clarity, with enough punch to cut through overdrive while keeping notes separated. The SA is not ideal for heavy metal or thick rhythm tones, making it less suited to sustained high-gain distortion.
What is the main tonal difference between these two EMG active single coils?
The SA features a tight, defined upper-midrange presence optimized for lead work and studio precision. The SAX offers a brighter, punchier midrange character better suited to rock, funk, and alternative styles where aggressive articulation matters.
Are both pickups compatible with standard single-coil routes?
Yes, both are active single-coil designs with standard footprints that drop in without modification. Both run on a single 9V battery and eliminate hum through onboard active circuitry.