What's the difference between the two modes, and how do I switch between them?

The 81TW houses two independent active preamps and a triple-coil configuration accessible via a push/pull potentiometer, letting you toggle between two distinct sonic characters without removing the pickup. Exact tonal differences depend on your wiring setup, but the dual-mode design gives you flexibility to dial in different aggression, clarity, or frequency response during performance or recording.

Will this fit my standard humbucker cavity, and what installation skills do I need?

Yes—the 81TW's 1.1" profile integrates cleanly into standard humbucker cavities. The solderless installation system requires no soldering iron; all necessary components (25k tone pot, push/pull pot, stereo jack, cables, and hardware) ship with the unit, making it accessible to players with basic DIY comfort.

What's the output level, and will it work well with high-gain amp settings?

The 81TW outputs 3.00 V RMS with a 4.50 V peak, delivering hot, controlled aggression typical of EMG's 81 platform. With a -100 dBV noise floor and 10 kΩ output impedance, it maintains clarity and articulation even at extreme gain settings, making it well-suited for metal and hard rock applications.

How long does the battery last, and what are the power specs?

A single 9 V battery delivers exceptional 3000-hour battery life (roughly 125 days of continuous use). The pickup also supports up to 27 V DC maximum supply for players running higher-voltage systems, with a current draw of 80 µA at 9 V.

Is this a B-Stock item, and if so, what cosmetic condition should I expect?

This is a B-Stock unit, meaning it is fully functional but may have minor cosmetic imperfections. Refer to the product description for any specific cosmetic details noted for this unit.

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 81TW Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory

The EMG 81TW is a dual-mode active humbucker built for players who need multiple tones from one pickup without switching instruments mid-set. This innovative pickup houses two independent active preamps and triple-coil configuration within a single housing, accessible via push/pull pot switching. The thicker 1.1" profile integrates cleanly into standard humbucker cavities while delivering the aggressive output and clarity EMG is known for—essential for cutting through on stage and staying articulate even when the mix gets crowded.

Dual-Mode Design & Output Specifications

The 81TW's dual active preamps and triple-coil architecture let you toggle between two distinct sonic characters using a simple push/pull potentiometer, giving you real-time flexibility in a live setting. Output measures 3.00 V RMS with a peak of 4.50 V, delivering the hot, controlled aggression typical of EMG's 81 platform—loud enough to command a stage, controlled enough to shape. With -100 dBV noise floor and 10 kΩ output impedance, the pickup maintains clarity and articulation even at extreme gain settings, so your definition stays intact no matter how hard you drive it.

Power & Installation

This active pickup runs on a single 9 V battery with an exceptional 3000-hour battery life—enough to get through months of regular gigging without swapping cells—and support for up to 27 V DC maximum supply for those pushing harder systems. The solderless installation system eliminates the need for a soldering iron, and all necessary components—including the 25k tone pot, push/pull pot, stereo output jack, pickup cables, connection cables, and mounting hardware—ship with the unit, so you're ready to install and play.

Key Features

Dual-mode design with two pickups in one humbucker housing
Dual active preamps with triple-coil configuration
Mode selection via push/pull potentiometer
1.1" thickness (compared to 0.9" standard EMG humbuckers)
Steel bars and ceramic magnet construction
Output voltage: 3.00 V RMS / 4.50 V peak
Output noise: -100 dBV
Output impedance: 10 kΩ
9 V battery with 3000-hour battery life; maximum 27 V DC supply
Current draw at 9V: 80 µA
Resonant frequency: 1630 Hz
Solderless installation system with all necessary mounting hardware and cables included

The EMG 81TW consolidates tonal flexibility and reliable active electronics into a single drop-in pickup, making it the smart upgrade for gigging musicians who demand range without the hassle of swapping gear between songs.