EMG4866 vs EMG4901 — Compare
EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG 57-8 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The 81X is a versatile high-output humbucker for standard guitars across metal and hard rock, while the 57-8 is purpose-built for 8-string instruments requiring extended-range articulation. Choose the 81X for 6- or 7-string setups; choose the 57-8 if you play 8-string guitar.
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EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | EMG 57-8 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Long-shaft design fits standard guitar cavities without modification
- ✓ Extremely low noise floor (-105 dB) ideal for high-gain recording
- ✓ Versatile for multiple tunings and genres within aggressive spectrum
- ✓ Compact soapbar alternative not required—works in traditional humbucker routes
Why choose EMG 57-8 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Engineered specifically for 8-string harmonic complexity and extended range
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver warmer, more articulate response than ceramic/steel blend
- ✓ Complete wiring ecosystem included—volume, tone controls, and all cabling ready to go
- ✓ Extended-series cap sized for proper 8-string bridge positioning
Frequently asked questions
Will the 57-8 fit a standard 6-string guitar?
No. The 57-8 is designed exclusively for 8-string bridge position. Its extended-series cap (4 x 1.5 inches) and internal design assume eight strings. Install it in a standard guitar and you will experience poor pole-piece alignment and compromised tone.
Which has lower noise for recording?
The 81X specifies -105 dB output noise, which is explicitly stated as recording-optimized. The 57-8 does not publish a noise floor specification, suggesting it prioritizes punch over ultra-quiet signal path.
Do both require soldering?
Neither requires soldering. Both use EMG's solderless Quick-Connect system. The 57-8 includes a complete wiring harness (volume, tone, battery bus, output jack), so if you need those controls, 57-8 saves assembly time; the 81X requires you to source or reuse existing controls.
Which magnet type sounds better for metal?
The 81X uses ceramic and steel magnets for maximum output and tight low end; the 57-8 uses Alnico V with steel pole pieces for a slightly warmer, more articulate response. Both excel in metal—choose 81X for maximum aggression, 57-8 for extended-range clarity.