What's the difference between single-coil and dual-coil mode?

Single-coil mode delivers 2.00V output with a 3.15 kHz resonant peak for tight, articulate attack and cutting highs ideal for lead work and clarity. Dual-coil mode produces 3.00V to 8.50V output with a warmer 1.75 kHz response for thick, saturated sustain and full-bodied tone—toggle between them with the onboard switch without touching your guitar's wiring.

How long does the battery last?

The 9V battery delivers approximately 1500 hours of playing time (about 6 months at moderate use) thanks to ultra-low current draw of just 160 microamps. The pickup supports up to 27V DC maximum supply voltage if you use an external power solution for extended runtime.

Is this pickup good for drop tunings and heavy music?

Yes—the EMG 81TWX is engineered specifically for metal, hard rock, and drop tunings. The tight low end, high output in dual-coil mode (up to 8.50V), and articulate attack cut through dense, saturated tones without losing clarity or definition.

What's the output noise like, and will it work with pedalboards?

The output noise floor is -109 dBV in dual-coil mode and -107 dBV in single-coil mode, ensuring studio-grade signal clarity. The 2.00 kΩ output impedance maintains optimal headroom through any amp or pedalboard chain, so hum and noise stay minimal even with heavy effects stacking.

Can I use this to replace multiple pickups across different guitars?

The switchable single-coil and dual-coil modes provide two distinct tonal palettes from one pickup, eliminating the need to swap hardware or maintain separate guitars for different playing contexts within metal, hard rock, and progressive styles.

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. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. 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 White

The EMG 81TWX is a dual-mode active humbucker built for players who need both aggressive articulation and real tonal flexibility from a single pickup. The ceramic and steel magnet design delivers clarity and punch, while the switchable single-coil and dual-coil modes let you dial in anything from tight, focused attack to full-bodied saturation without swapping hardware.

Dual-Mode Tonal Range

Toggle between single-coil mode—delivering 2.00V output with a 3.15 kHz resonant peak for articulate, cutting highs—and dual-coil mode with 3.00V to 8.50V output and a warmer 1.75 kHz response for thick, saturated sustain. This flexibility means one pickup covers multiple playing contexts and styles, eliminating the need to swap gear mid-gig.

Professional-Grade Electronics

Active circuitry draws just 160 microamps at 9V, delivering an impressive 1500-hour battery life per charge. The -109 dBV output noise floor in dual-coil mode ensures your signal stays clean and transparent through any amp or pedalboard chain, while the 2.00 kΩ output impedance maintains optimal headroom and dynamic range. Maximum supply voltage reaches 27V DC for extended performance capability.

Key Features

Magnet Type: Ceramic and Steel
Single-Coil Mode Output Voltage: 2.00V (string), 3.00V (strum)
Single-Coil Resonant Frequency: 3.15 kHz
Dual-Coil Mode Output Voltage: 3.00V (string), 8.50V (strum)
Dual-Coil Resonant Frequency: 1.75 kHz
Output Impedance: 2.00 kΩ (both modes)
Output Noise: -107 dBV (single-coil), -109 dBV (dual-coil)
Current Draw @ 9V: 160 Microamps
Battery Life: 1500 hours
Maximum Supply Voltage: 27 Volts DC
Thickness: 1.1 inches
Color: White with Copper Logo

The EMG 81TWX combines transparent active electronics with genuine tonal range, making it the right choice for gigging musicians who demand clarity and power without compromise.