EMG4673 vs EMG4793 — Compare
EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 57-8H Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
The EMG 81TWX is a dual-mode single-pickup solution with humbucker/single-coil switching for tonal flexibility on standard 6-string guitars, while the EMG 57-8H is a purpose-built eight-string bridge pickup with fixed Alnico V voicing and solderless wiring for extended-range instruments. Choose the 81TWX if you play standard tuning and want switching versatility; choose the 57-8H if you play 8-string and need balanced string response across extended range.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | EMG 57-8H Active Humbucker Pickup in Red | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $145.00 | $145.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Dual-mode humbucker/single-coil switching via push/pull pot for tonal flexibility without hardware swaps
- ✓ Ceramic magnet construction delivers aggressive, defined output suited to dense mixes
- ✓ Extended 3000-hour battery life minimizes maintenance downtime
- ✓ Long-shaft design accommodates varied routing depths for retrofit compatibility
Why choose EMG 57-8H Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
- ✓ Purpose-engineered for eight-string instruments with balanced string-to-string response
- ✓ Solderless installation eliminates traditional wiring and includes all necessary components
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver compressed highs and controlled lows optimized for modern extended-range tunings
- ✓ Complete hardware bundle reduces additional purchasing and build complexity
Frequently asked questions
What is the key difference in magnet type between these two pickups?
The 81TWX uses ceramic magnets for aggressive, articulate response, while the 57-8H uses Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces for compressed highs and controlled lows. Ceramic typically produces higher output and snappier transients, while Alnico V offers warmer midrange character.
Can either pickup work on an 8-string guitar?
The 57-8H is designed and voiced specifically for eight-string instruments with balanced response across all eight strings. The 81TWX is a standard 6-string pickup and is not engineered for extended-range applications.
Does the 81TWX switching mode affect installation or compatibility?
The push/pull dual-mode switching requires a compatible potentiometer, but standard humbucker cavities accommodate the pickup's 1.1-inch thickness. Confirm your guitar's existing pickup depth before ordering, as the 81TWX is 0.2 inches thicker than standard EMG humbuckers.
What does solderless installation mean on the 57-8H, and is soldering required elsewhere?
Solderless installation refers to the pickup's direct connection to included potentiometers, battery bus, and output jack without traditional solder joints. The 57-8H bundle includes all necessary components, eliminating external purchasing and reducing build time.