What does dual-mode mean, and how do I switch between humbucker and single-coil?

The 81TWX houses both a full Model 81 humbucker circuit and a single-coil mode in one pickup. A push/pull potentiometer switch lets you toggle between the two voicings instantly—no hardware swap needed. Humbucker mode delivers the classic aggressive EMG 81 tone; single-coil mode adds clarity and snap.

Do I really not have to solder anything?

Correct. The pickup ships completely wired with potentiometers, a jack connector, battery clip, and push/pull switch ready to go. You drop it into your guitar's pickup cavity, connect the battery clip, and you're done.

Is this pickup good for metal and high-gain rigs?

Yes. The 81TWX is built for metal, hard rock, and drop-tuning applications. Its 3.00 V string output and 8.50 V strum output deliver the high-gain clarity and defined treble needed to cut through saturated amp tones, with a tight low end and controlled mids that prevent mud.

How long does the battery last, and what voltage does it need?

A single 9V battery provides roughly 1500 hours of runtime at normal use. The pickup also supports supply voltages up to 27 Volts DC if you want extended headroom or integrated power solutions.

Will this fit my guitar's humbucker cavity?

The long shaft design uses standard 78.5 mm humbucker mounting hole spacing, so it fits any guitar with a standard humbucker route. Verify your guitar's mounting spacing before purchase.

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 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

The EMG 81TWX delivers the aggressive, articulate tone of a classic Model 81 humbucker with the flexibility to switch to single-coil mode in a single housing. The dual-mode design and completely pre-wired architecture make this pickup a straightforward drop-in replacement for players seeking high-output clarity and tight low-end response without the soldering hassle.

Tone & Electronics

This active pickup operates with ceramic magnets and 2 built-in preamps, delivering a 3.00 V output (string) and 8.50 V output (strum) with minimal noise at -109 dB. The 1.75 kHz resonant frequency and 2.00 kΩ output impedance combine to produce tight, defined highs and controlled mids—ideal for rock, metal, and modern styles demanding clarity through high-gain rigs.

Design & Installation

The pickup ships completely wired with potentiometers (1x push/pull switch), jack connector, and battery clip, eliminating the need to solder. The long shaft design fits standard mounting holes spaced at 78.5 mm, while the black housing with copper EMG logo maintains a professional finish. A single 9V battery delivers 1500 hours of battery life at 160 microamps draw, with support for supply voltages up to 27 Volts DC for extended headroom.

Key Features

Dual-mode design: Humbucker Model 81 and Single Coil in one housing
Ceramic magnets with 2 built-in preamps
Output Voltage (String): 3.00 V
Output Voltage (Strum): 8.50 V
Output Noise: -109 dB
Resonant Frequency: 1.75 kHz
Output Impedance: 2.00 kΩ
Completely wired with potentiometers, push/pull switch, jack, and battery clip
Long shaft design with 78.5 mm mounting hole spacing
Current draw @ 9V: 160 microamps
Battery Life: 1500 hours
Maximum Supply: 27 Volts DC

The EMG 81TWX combines plug-and-play convenience with the tonal versatility to work across humbucker and single-coil applications, making it a reliable choice for gigging musicians and tone-focused players who demand both simplicity and sonic flexibility on stage or in the studio.