Is the EMG 808 suitable for genres outside of metal and djent?

The EMG 808 is optimized for metal, progressive, and djent playing. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk styles, as its articulate mids and tight low end are voiced specifically for modern extended-range and high-gain applications.

How long does the 9V battery last, and is it easy to replace?

The battery lasts approximately 3000 hours under normal use (80 microamps draw), which translates to roughly one year of regular playing. Battery replacement is straightforward and only requires disconnecting the battery when it needs changing.

What is the output level, and will it work with my amp?

The EMG 808 produces 2.00V on single strings and 4.50V on full strums, providing strong, responsive output suitable for most guitar amplifiers and audio interfaces. The high output and low noise floor (-104 dB) make it compatible with standard guitar rigs without additional boost.

Is installation complicated, and will it fit my 8-string guitar?

Installation is simple thanks to the solderless Quik-connect system—no soldering required and quick removal for future swaps. The soapbar format is the standard size for most modern 8-string instruments, but verify your guitar's pickup cavity dimensions before ordering to ensure proper fit.

How does the EMG 808 compare to other active 8-string pickups?

The EMG 808 competes directly with the Seymour Duncan Sentient 8-String, Fishman Fluence Modern 8-String, and DiMarzio Crunchlab 8-String. It excels in string-to-string balance and articulate mids while maintaining tight low-end control, making it a reliable choice for precision-focused players.

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.

EMG 808 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in White

The EMG 808 delivers articulate, controlled output across all eight strings with the clarity and punch expected from EMG's active design. This soapbar-format pickup maintains tight low-end definition while preserving string-to-string balance, making it the reliable choice for extended-range instruments demanding precision and consistency on stage and in the studio. The white finish offers a distinctive aesthetic that stands out against darker fretboards and hardware.

Tone & Electronics

Built around an Alnico magnet with a 2.00 kHz resonant frequency, this pickup produces articulate mids and controlled highs suited to both rhythmic and lead playing. The active design yields 2.00V output on single strings and 4.50V on full strums, providing responsive dynamics without excessive compression—essential for 8-string instruments where note clarity and definition matter in live and recorded settings.

Installation & Specifications

The solderless Quik-connect system simplifies installation and allows for quick swaps without permanent modification, ideal for touring rigs and backup instruments. Powered by a single 9V battery with an impressive 3000-hour battery life and drawing only 80 microamps, this pickup operates reliably even in extended studio or touring scenarios, minimizing power concerns during extended gigs.

Key Features

Magnet Type: Alnico
Resonant Frequency: 2.00 kHz
Output Voltage (Single String): 2.00V
Output Voltage (Strum): 4.50V
Output Impedance: 10 Kohm
Output Noise (60 Hz): -104 dB
Active Design with 9V Battery Power
Battery Life: 3000 hours at 80 microamps
Maximum Supply Voltage: 27V DC
Volume Control: 25K Ohm
Tone Control: 25K Ohm
Solderless Quik-connect Installation with 3-Conductor Wiring

The EMG 808 combines active precision engineering with user-friendly installation, delivering the extended-range clarity that modern 8-string instruments demand, backed by road-proven reliability.