EMG 81 Active Humbucker Pickup in White
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG1187
Description
EMG 81 Active Humbucker Pickup in White
The EMG 81 is an articulate, high-output active humbucker built for modern rock and metal players who demand clarity and definition without sacrificing aggression. Its tight, closely spaced coil design cuts through dense mixes with surgical precision, delivering aggressive highs and punchy mids that define contemporary heavy music. The white finish offers a striking aesthetic contrast on dark-bodied instruments.
Electronics & Output Specifications
Powered by a single 9V battery with an exceptional 3000-hour battery life, this active design produces a 3.00 V RMS output with 4.50 V peak voltage and exceptionally low noise at -100 dBV. The 10 kΩ output impedance and minimal current draw of 80 µA @ 9V ensure clean signal transmission to any amplifier while maximizing battery longevity.
Installation & Design
Quick solderless installation minimizes setup time and reduces the risk of wiring errors, making this pickup accessible even to players without soldering experience. The pickup's 1630 Hz resonant frequency focuses output in the critical vocal midrange, while ceramic magnets and 3-core wiring deliver consistent, aggressive articulation.
Key Features
- Ceramic magnet construction
- Closely spaced coils for tonal focus
- 3-core wiring
- 3.00 V RMS / 4.50 V peak output
- -100 dBV output noise floor
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 80 µA current draw @ 9V
- 9V battery power with 3000-hour battery life
- Maximum 27V DC supply rating
- 1630 Hz resonant frequency
- Solderless installation
- 70mm width × 38mm height × 23mm installation depth, 78mm mounting screw spacing
The EMG 81 combines low-noise, high-definition output with battery longevity and user-friendly installation, making it a reliable workhorse for aggressive playing styles.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81 is a high-output active humbucker engineered for metal, hard rock, and modern rock players who need articulate definition and aggressive clarity on stage. Its tight low end, punchy mids, and surgical highs cut through dense live mixes without muddiness, while ceramic magnets and a closely spaced coil design deliver consistent, focused tone night after night. Solderless installation and industry-leading 3000-hour battery life make it a dependable choice for touring musicians and working players.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Djent
- ✓ Thrash Metal
- ✓ Modern Rock
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What styles and genres is the EMG 81 best suited for?
The EMG 81 excels in metal, hard rock, djent, thrash metal, and modern rock, where articulate definition and aggressive highs are essential. Its tone profile is not ideally suited for jazz, blues, or folk styles that rely on warmer, more rounded character.
How long does the 9V battery last, and what are the power specs?
The battery delivers an exceptional 3000-hour lifespan under typical use, with a 3.00 V RMS output and 4.50 V peak voltage. Current draw is minimal at 80 µA @ 9V, ensuring both clean signal transmission and extended battery longevity.
Do I need soldering experience to install this pickup?
No. The EMG 81 features solderless installation, so you can swap it in without soldering skills or special tools, reducing setup time and wiring errors.
How does the EMG 81 compare to other high-output active humbuckers?
The EMG 81 is known for surgical clarity and articulation, with a closely spaced coil design and 1630 Hz resonant frequency that focuses output in the vocal midrange. Comparable alternatives include the Seymour Duncan JB Jr, DiMarzio D Activator, and EMG 85, each with slightly different tone balances and output characteristics.
What are the physical dimensions and mounting specs?
The pickup measures 70mm wide × 38mm tall × 23mm installation depth, with 78mm mounting screw spacing. These dimensions are standard for most modern humbucker cavities.
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.
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