EMG 808 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG2651
Description
EMG 808 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 808 is a high-output active soapbar designed specifically for 8-string instruments, delivering the aggressive, articulate response that extended-range players demand. Its compact soapbar footprint integrates seamlessly into modern instrument designs while maintaining the clarity and punch expected from EMG's active electronics.
Tone & Output Performance
Dual Alnico magnets paired with active circuitry produce a 2.00 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes midrange clarity and definition across all eight strings. String pickup yields 2.00V output, while strummed passages reach 4.50V, ensuring consistent articulation from pick dynamics and tight low-end definition on extended tunings.
Electronics & Reliability
The active circuit operates at just 80 microamps @ 9V, delivering an exceptional 3000-hour battery life and supporting supply voltages up to 27V DC for maximum headroom. Output noise specs of -104 dB and 10 kΩ impedance ensure a clean signal path with minimal interference, critical for modern recording and live applications.
Key Features
- Active Soapbar Mount design sized for 8-string instruments
- Dual coil with Alnico magnet construction
- 2.00 kHz resonant frequency for defined midrange response
- 2.00V output voltage (string), 4.50V output voltage (strum)
- -104 dB output noise specification
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 80 microamps current draw @ 9V supply
- 3000-hour battery life
- Maximum 27V DC supply voltage rating
- Quik-Connect wiring harness
- Includes pre-wired volume/tone knob set, output jack, battery clip set, screws and springs
- Two-year manufacturer warranty
The EMG 808 combines proven active electronics with extended-range voicing, delivering the output, noise floor, and battery efficiency required for professional 8-string applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 808 is a high-output active soapbar pickup engineered for 8-string guitars, delivering the aggressive midrange clarity and tight low end that metal and djent players demand. Its dual Alnico magnets and active circuit ensure consistent articulation across all eight strings—from precise pick attacks to full strums—with exceptional battery life (3000 hours) and a clean noise floor for both studio recording and live reliability. Built for intermediate to professional extended-range players who need dependable output and definition in drop tunings without compromise.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Djent
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Extended Range
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What tunings and genres is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG 808 excels in metal, djent, progressive, and drop-tuning applications where articulate midrange and tight low-end definition are critical. Its active output and noise floor make it less ideal for jazz, blues, or folk playing styles.
How long does the battery last, and what voltage options does it support?
The pickup draws only 80 microamps at 9V and delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life. It also supports supply voltages up to 27V DC for maximum headroom in demanding live or recording setups.
What comes included with the EMG 808?
The package includes a pre-wired volume and tone knob set, output jack, battery clip set, mounting screws, springs, and a Quik-Connect wiring harness for straightforward installation.
How does the output compare between single strings and full strums?
Single-string output measures 2.00V, while full strums reach 4.50V, ensuring consistent articulation across pick dynamics and maintaining clarity on extended-range tunings.
What is the noise specification, and why does it matter?
The pickup delivers -104 dB output noise with 10 kΩ impedance, ensuring a clean signal path with minimal interference—critical for modern recording and live applications where background hum or hiss can affect mix clarity.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.