EMG5978 vs EMG7855 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red vs EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red
The key difference is the bridge pickup: the SA/SA/85 uses a powerful 85 humbucker for maximum aggression and sustain, while the SA/SA/81 uses a more controlled 81 humbucker for balanced punch. Choose the 85 if you want maximum metal drive and cut-through; choose the 81 if you prefer a tighter, more articulate bridge tone that stays clean under high gain.
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EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red
EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red | EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $289.00 | $289.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red
- ✓ Powerful 85 humbucker bridge delivers maximum aggression and sustain for metal
- ✓ Exceptional headroom up to 27V DC for extreme gain without breakup
- ✓ Cut-through clarity in dense mixes with tight, controlled highs
- ✓ Solderless installation system included for faster setup
Why choose EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Red
- ✓ 81 humbucker bridge offers balanced punch with tighter control and definition
- ✓ More articulate bridge tone that maintains clarity even at high gain
- ✓ Consistent single-coil character across all three positions
- ✓ Straightforward 4-conductor wiring on each pickup for flexible configuration
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between the 85 and 81 humbuckers?
The 85 is hotter and more aggressive with greater sustain and cut-through, while the 81 is tighter and more controlled, maintaining clarity and definition even under high gain. The 81 stays more articulate; the 85 emphasizes raw power.
Are the neck and middle pickups identical in both sets?
Yes—both sets use identical SA single-coil pickups with Alnico V magnets, 3.70 kHz resonant frequency, and 1.00V single-note output. The only difference between the two sets is the bridge humbucker.
Which is better for progressive rock?
Both suit progressive rock, but the SA/SA/85 excels if you need maximum bridge aggression and dynamic range, while the SA/SA/81 is better if you want tighter articulation and definition across all positions for complex chord work.
Is battery life the same on both?
Yes—both sets draw 80 microamps at 9V, yielding approximately 3000 hours of battery life per charge. Both support up to 27V DC maximum supply.