EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3097
Description
EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 81X is built for gigging musicians who need articulate, focused output with tight low-end response and crisp high-end clarity on stage. This active humbucker excels in high-gain contexts where note definition keeps you cutting through dense live mixes without losing punch or clarity. The ivory finish delivers classic appeal while the compact form factor integrates seamlessly into virtually any pickup cavity, making it an instant drop-in upgrade for touring reliability.
Active Electronics & Output
Powered by a single 9V battery with exceptional efficiency, the 81X generates controlled output that stays articulate even at extreme volumes during long sets. The onboard active circuit ensures consistent signal integrity and near-zero noise floor, giving you clean transmission whether you're recording in the studio or pushing your amp on stage night after night.
Tone & Frequency Response
The ceramic/steel magnet structure and 1.63 kHz resonant frequency create a signature midrange peak that cuts your vocals and leads through any venue mix without shouting. Output voltage of 3V (string) and 4.5V (strum) provides controlled dynamics without excessive compression, preserving articulation and feel across all your playing dynamics from whisper-quiet passages to full-throttle solos.
Key Features
- Ceramic/Steel (C/S) magnet construction
- Active electronics powered by single 9V battery
- Resonant frequency: 1.63 kHz
- Output voltage (string): 3V
- Output voltage (strum): 4.5V
- Output noise: -100 dBV at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 KOhm
- Battery life: 3000 hours
- Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
- Current draw at 9V: 80 mA
- Finish: Ivory
- Active humbucker configuration
The EMG 81X is the proven choice for aggressive yet controllable high-output pickup performance, with decades of real-world reliability in professional touring and studio environments.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81X is an active humbucker built for metal and hard rock players who need articulate, cutting tone at extreme volumes without sacrificing note definition. Its tight low end, crisp highs, and focused midrange peak let you stay clear in dense mixes and live situations, while the efficient 9V active circuit keeps noise virtually nonexistent. Choose this if you're pushing high-gain tones on stage or in the studio and want a pickup that stays tight and readable no matter how hard you dig in.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ High-Gain Recording
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is the 81X best suited for?
The 81X excels in metal, hard rock, and high-gain recording contexts where articulate note definition and punch are essential. It is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk applications.
How does the active circuit work and what do I need to power it?
The 81X is powered by a single 9V battery and delivers exceptional efficiency with a 3000-hour battery life. The active circuit maintains a near-zero noise floor and consistent signal integrity, making it ideal for both recording and live performance.
What are the tone characteristics and output specs?
The ceramic/steel magnet structure and 1.63 kHz resonant frequency create a midrange peak that cuts through mixes. Output voltage is 3V when string struck and 4.5V when strummed, providing controlled dynamics while preserving articulation across all playing intensities.
Will this pickup fit my guitar?
The EMG 81X has a compact form factor that integrates seamlessly into virtually any standard humbucker pickup cavity. Confirm your guitar accepts standard-sized humbuckers before purchasing.
How does the 81X compare to other high-output active pickups?
The 81X is the refined version of EMG's legendary 81 platform and competes with models like the Seymour Duncan JB and DiMarzio D-Activator. It prioritizes articulation and clarity in high-gain contexts while maintaining controlled output and a tight low end.
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.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.