EMG3342 vs EMG7162 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG SA is a single-coil for articulate, clean tones and lead work, while the EMG 57/66 TW is a humbucker set built for metal, hard rock, and thick rhythm playing. Choose the SA for studio clarity and defined treble; choose the 57/66 TW for versatile high-output performance with switchable tonal character.
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EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $329.00 | $319.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Hum-free single-coil articulation with active electronics
- ✓ Strong upper-midrange presence and defined treble for lead definition
- ✓ Ultra-low noise floor (-90 dBV) ideal for clean tones and studio sessions
- ✓ Long battery life (1000 hours per 9V cell)
Why choose EMG 57/66 TW Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Complete ready-to-wire set with solderless harness and long-shaft pots
- ✓ Dual voicing per pickup (single- and dual-coil selectable character)
- ✓ High output and smooth sustain suited to metal, hard rock, and progressive genres
- ✓ Neck (66) and bridge (57) pairing delivers warm response with focused attack
Frequently asked questions
Which suits metal and hard rock better?
The EMG 57/66 TW is designed for metal, hard rock, and progressive music with high output and versatile voicing. The SA is not ideal for heavy metal and thick rhythm tones.
What's the main tonal difference?
The SA delivers tight, articulate single-coil snap with defined treble and upper-midrange cut. The 57/66 TW offers focused attack with warm neck response and smooth sustain across switchable voices.
Is the 57/66 TW a complete installation or just pickups?
The 57/66 TW is a complete set including two push-pull potentiometers, two standard tone controls, solderless wiring harness, and long-shaft pots—ready for drop-in installation. The SA is a single pickup and requires integration into an existing system.
Which is better for studio sessions?
Both suit studio work but for different purposes. The SA excels at clean tones, lead definition, and hum-free recording. The 57/66 TW is versatile across heavy styles and provides switchable tonal options for flexible tracking.