EMG SA/SA/81TW Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3342
Description
EMG SA Active Single-Coil Pickup in Ivory
The EMG SA delivers the articulate snap and clarity of a single-coil design with the reliability and noise rejection of active electronics. This ivory-finished pickup bridges vintage single-coil character with modern low-impedance preamp technology, making it a straightforward choice for players seeking defined treble and midrange cut without hum.
Tone & Performance
The SA uses an Alnico V bar magnet paired with a low-impedance preamp tuned to a resonant frequency of 3.70 kHz. This combination produces tight, articulate output with strong upper-midrange presence—ideal for clean tones, lead definition, and cutting through a mix on stage. The 0.6 RMS output voltage (0.85 peak) maintains dynamic responsiveness while the -90 dBV noise floor eliminates the hum endemic to passive single-coils, keeping your rig clean during live sets and studio tracking alike.
Live Reliability & Power
Running on a standard 9V battery, the SA draws just 240 microamps, yielding approximately 1000 hours of battery life per cell—enough runway for extended touring and festival schedules without frequent changes. The 10 kOhm output impedance ensures stable signal delivery to your preamp or amp input without loading effects, and the active design remains consistent across cable runs and switching systems, keeping your tone predictable through any rig configuration.
Key Features
- Active single-coil pickup type with low-impedance preamp
- Alnico V bar magnet for articulate, responsive tone
- 3.70 kHz resonant frequency for defined midrange presence
- 0.6 V RMS output voltage with 0.85 V peak output
- -90 dBV output noise specification for hum-free operation
- 10 kOhm output impedance for stable signal integrity
- 240 microamp current draw at 9V operation
- Approximately 1000 hours battery life per 9V cell
- Ivory finish
The EMG SA combines the clarity and cut of single-coil design with active-electronics reliability, making it a direct, no-compromise choice for gigging musicians who refuse hum and demand articulation.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SA is an active single-coil pickup that delivers articulate snap and defined treble without the hum that plagues passive single-coils, powered by a 9V battery with roughly 1000 hours of life per cell. It's built for intermediate to professional players who need clean tones, lead definition, and the ability to cut through a mix on stage or in the studio. Choose it if you want single-coil character and responsiveness with the noise rejection and reliability of modern active electronics.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Clean Tones
- ✓ Lead Definition
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Heavy Metal
- – Thick Rhythm Tones
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the battery life, and do I need to replace it often?
The SA draws 240 microamps at 9V and delivers approximately 1000 hours of battery life per cell, meaning a typical 9V battery lasts several months under normal playing. A battery change is required periodically, but the low current draw keeps maintenance minimal.
Will this pickup eliminate hum in a noisy live or studio environment?
Yes. The active preamp design and low-impedance architecture deliver a -90 dBV noise floor, eliminating the hum endemic to passive single-coils. The 10 kOhm output impedance also ensures stable signal delivery across cable runs and switching systems.
What tone should I expect compared to a passive single-coil?
The SA uses an Alnico V bar magnet and resonant frequency of 3.70 kHz to produce articulate snap with strong upper-midrange presence—ideal for clean tones and lead definition. The tight, dynamic 0.6 V RMS output maintains responsiveness while cutting through a mix without the muddy lows or lack of clarity of some passive designs.
Is this pickup suitable for heavy metal or thick rhythm tones?
No. The EMG SA is optimized for clean tones, lead definition, and articulate snap; it's not designed for heavy metal or thick rhythm work. Players seeking aggressive, powerful rhythm tones should consider humbucking alternatives.
What does the ivory finish look like, and is it purely cosmetic?
The ivory finish is a cosmetic choice that gives the pickup a classic appearance. It does not affect tone or performance—it's purely visual.
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 $23 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.
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