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

Single-coil mode delivers 2.00V string output and 3.00V strum output with a 3.15 kHz resonant frequency for articulate, focused clarity. Dual-coil mode produces substantially higher 3.00V string and 8.50V strum output with a 1.75 kHz resonant frequency for punchy, aggressive voicing. Both modes maintain very low noise floors at -107 dB and -109 dB respectively.

Will this pickup fit in my guitar without modification?

The 81TWX-R is 1.1 inches thick, which is 0.22 inches thicker than standard EMG humbuckers, so you should verify your pickup cavity dimensions before purchasing to ensure proper fitment.

How long does the battery last, and is installation complicated?

The 9V battery lasts approximately 1500 hours of use. Installation is straightforward thanks to the solderless connector system—no rewiring required for a retrofit, making it an accessible upgrade for intermediate and advanced players.

What genres and playing styles is this pickup designed for?

The 81TWX-R excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive music, and performs well in studio sessions and gigging contexts. It is not optimized for jazz, blues, or folk playing styles.

Can I run this on a higher voltage than 9V?

Yes, the pickup supports a maximum supply voltage of 27 Volts DC, making it compatible with higher-voltage preamp systems if you want to experiment with increased headroom and output.

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-R Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory

The EMG 81TWX-R is a versatile active humbucker built around dual-mode switching, delivering both focused single-coil articulation and full dual-coil punch from a single housing. Its ceramic and steel magnet construction and solderless connector system make it a straightforward retrofit for players seeking serious output flexibility without rewiring complications.

Tone & Output Performance

This pickup excels across both operating modes: single-coil mode produces a 3.15 kHz resonant frequency with 2.00V string output and 3.00V strum output, while dual-coil mode drops to 1.75 kHz with substantially higher 3.00V string and 8.50V strum output. The noise floor sits at -107 dB in single-coil mode and -109 dB in dual-coil mode, ensuring clean amplification across both configurations.

Design & Power

The 1.1" thickness represents a 0.22" increase over standard EMG humbuckers, requiring fitment verification in tight pickup cavities. Active circuitry draws 160 µA at 9V with rated battery life of 1500 hours, and the design supports maximum supply up to 27 Volts DC for those using higher-voltage preamps.

Key Features

Active humbucker with dual-mode switching (single-coil and dual-coil)
Ceramic and steel magnet construction
Made in USA
Ivory color finish
Single-coil mode: 3.15 kHz resonant frequency, 2.00V string output, 3.00V strum output
Dual-coil mode: 1.75 kHz resonant frequency, 3.00V string output, 8.50V strum output
Output noise: -107 dB (single-coil), -109 dB (dual-coil)
Output impedance: 2.00 kΩ
Current draw: 160 µA at 9V with 1500-hour battery life
Solderless connector installation
Maximum supply: 27 Volts DC
Thickness: 1.1" (0.22" thicker than standard EMG humbuckers)

The combination of switchable voicing, low noise performance, and straightforward installation makes the 81TWX-R a capable choice for players who need both clarity and aggression from a single pickup without compromise.