EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black

EMG SA/SA/81 Active Pickup Set in Black

This three-pickup active system combines the articulation and responsiveness of dual single-coil clarity with the aggression and punch of a hard-hitting humbucker—all dialed in as a cohesive, factory-matched set. The solderless design and plug-and-play connectivity eliminate soldering hassles during installation, while the uniform black finish maintains a professional look across all three units. Built for gigging musicians who need balanced single-coil articulation in neck and middle positions with serious bite at the bridge, this set bridges classic single-coil responsiveness and modern active punch without compromise.

Electronics & Tonal Character

The two EMG SA models employ Alnico V magnets with a 3.7 kHz resonant frequency, delivering punchy mid-range clarity and responsive dynamics ideal for lead work and clean tones. The EMG 81 model uses a ceramic magnet with a 1.63 kHz resonant frequency and higher output, providing aggressive gain and defined low-end presence at the bridge for heavy tones and cutting through dense mixes on stage. All three pickups maintain 10 kΩ DC resistance, ensuring consistent impedance matching and balanced signal integration across the set for predictable performance night after night.

Build Quality & Durability

Each pickup is vacuum sealed in epoxy, substantially reducing microphonic feedback and mechanical noise while increasing structural durability for road-ready reliability. The active system operates on a single 9V battery with over 1000 hours of playing time per battery, so one swap typically lasts through extended touring runs. Made in the USA, this set reflects the engineering standards EMG has maintained across decades of active pickup production, with proven track records in professional touring rigs.

Key Features

• Complete three-pickup set: two EMG SA single-coil models plus one EMG 81 humbucker
• EMG SA: Alnico V magnet type with 3.7 kHz resonant frequency
• EMG 81: Ceramic magnet type with 1.63 kHz resonant frequency
• DC Resistance: 10 kΩ per pickup
• Vacuum sealed in epoxy construction to reduce feedback and enhance durability
• Solderless active system requiring single 9V battery
• 9V battery provides over 1000 hours of playing time
• Complete wiring kit included: 25k volume pot, dual 25k tone pots, stereo output jack, 5-way selector switch
• All necessary cables and connectors included for full installation
• Mounting hardware: three pairs of screws and springs
• Black finish across all three units
• Made in the USA

This pickup set delivers the flexibility of single-coil clarity where needed and bridge-position aggression in one complete, factory-matched system engineered for road reliability and straightforward installation.