How does the dual-mode switching work, and is it really two different tones or just a blend?

The 81TW uses a push/pull pot to switch between two independently tuned preamps inside the pickup—one optimized for single-coil mode and one for dual-coil operation. Because each mode has its own preamp, you get authentic single-coil clarity and genuine humbucking output, not a blended approximation of either.

What's the battery life, and how hard is it to replace?

A single 9V battery powers the active electronics for up to 3000 hours of playing time. The included battery bus makes integration into most wiring schemes straightforward, and you can replace the battery when needed without major rewiring.

Is the EMG 81TW good for blues or jazz, or is it really just a metal pickup?

The 81TW is voiced for metal, hard rock, and progressive genres and is not recommended for blues or jazz playing styles. Its aggressive character and tight low end are designed for those higher-output applications.

What output level should I expect, and will it need a buffer or preamp?

The 81TW delivers 3.00V RMS output with 4.50V peak, maintaining a -100 dBV noise floor. It's an active pickup with on-board preamps, so it's already buffered and will integrate cleanly into most guitar wiring and amp setups.

What's included in the box, and what do I need to install this?

The package includes the pickup, a 25k tone pot, push/pull pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting screws, springs, and cables. You'll need basic soldering skills and a way to route the stereo output jack into your guitar's wiring scheme.

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 White

The EMG 81TW is a dual-mode active humbucker that flips between single-coil and double-coil operation via a push/pull pot—all in one pickup. Built for touring and session work where you need both aggressive output and articulate clarity from a single instrument, this pickup delivers genuine tonal switching without compromise or blending.

Dual-Mode Design & Electronics

A triple-coil configuration houses two independent internal preamps tuned separately for single-coil and dual-coil modes. Rather than blend the two voices, the design gives you authentic performance in each mode: true single-coil transparency when you need definition, and full humbucking output when you dial in power. Push the pot, get real results.

Output & Power Specifications

The EMG 81TW runs at 3.00V RMS output with 4.50V peak voltage, maintaining a -100 dBV noise floor in both modes. A single 9V battery powers the active stage for up to 3000 hours of gig time, and the included battery bus and stereo output jack integrate cleanly into standard wiring.

Key Features

Dual-mode humbucking pickup with real single-coil and double-coil modes
Triple-coil design with two internal preamps
White finish
Ceramic magnet construction
Dimensions: 3.38 x 2.25 x 4.75 inches
Pickup thickness: 1.1 inches
Output: 3.00V RMS / 4.50V peak
Noise floor: -100 dBV
Impedance: 10 kΩ
Current draw: 80 µA
Powered by 9V battery with 3000-hour battery life
Includes 25k tone pot, push/pull pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting screws, springs, and cables

The EMG 81TW is built for working musicians who need one pickup to handle multiple tones without switching gear or compromise.