EMG SA/SA/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG522
Description
EMG SA/SA/89 Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
The EMG SA/SA/89 is a three-pickup active system that pairs the clarity and articulation of dual SA single-coil pickups with the versatility of an 89 dual-mode humbucker, delivering high-output performance across neck, middle, and bridge positions. Built for gigging musicians and studio players who need aggressive definition, tonal flexibility, and rock-solid reliability night after night.
Tone & Electronics
Built on AlNiCo 5 magnetic material, these pickups produce a high output with 10 Kohm output impedance and exceptionally low noise at -101 dBV (60 Hz), cutting through a live mix with clarity and punch. The system runs on a single 9-volt battery with approximately one year of typical playing life, delivering consistent active amplification and responsiveness across all three pickups—no signal degradation, no surprises on stage.
Installation & System
The complete set includes EMG's solderless wiring system, eliminating the need for complex soldering and reducing installation time significantly. All necessary components—pots, jacks, cables, and hardware—are included, making this a complete retrofit or new-build solution that most players can handle with basic tools and moderate technical skill. Get back to playing fast.
Key Features
- Three-pickup active set: two SA single-coil + one 89 dual-mode humbucker
- AlNiCo 5 magnetic material for superior tonal definition
- High output with 10 Kohm output impedance
- Output noise: -101 dBV at 60 Hz
- Single 9-volt battery power
- Battery life: approximately one year with typical use
- Solderless wiring system with integrated electronics
- Includes complete system: pots, jacks, cables, and hardware
- Black cap finish
- Made in USA
- Active amplification for consistent gain and response
This system delivers the cutting tone of single-coils with the punch and stability of active electronics, making it reliable for touring, frequent gigging, and players who demand a low noise floor and fast, straightforward setup.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SA/SA/89 is a three-pickup active system combining two articulate single-coils with a versatile dual-mode humbucker, designed for metal, hard rock, and progressive players who need high-output definition and minimal noise without sacrificing tonal range. Built on AlNiCo 5 magnets with a -101 dBV noise floor, it delivers aggressive punch and clarity whether you're stacking heavy riffs or navigating complex passages on stage. The solderless wiring system and complete hardware package make retrofit or new-build installation straightforward, keeping downtime minimal so you stay ready to gig.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, articulate cleans, tight definition, low noise floor, aggressive punch |
| Less specialized for | Traditional Jazz, Blues (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the SA single-coils and the 89 humbucker in this set?
The two SA single-coils deliver articulate, clear tone with minimal noise, ideal for cutting leads and clean articulation in neck and middle positions. The 89 is a dual-mode humbucker that adds versatility and punch, particularly useful at the bridge for aggressive rhythms and leads. Together they give you the responsiveness of single-coils with the thickness and output of an active humbucker.
Do I need soldering experience to install this system?
No. The EMG solderless wiring system uses integrated electronics and plug-in connectors that require only basic tools and moderate technical skill. All pots, jacks, cables, and hardware are included, making installation a straightforward retrofit or new-build task without any soldering.
How long does the 9-volt battery last?
The battery typically lasts approximately one year with normal playing use. The system runs on a single 9-volt battery that powers active amplification across all three pickups, ensuring consistent gain and low-noise response throughout that period.
What noise floor does this system achieve?
The SA/SA/89 produces output noise of -101 dBV at 60 Hz, which is an exceptionally low noise floor. This clean signal transmission is ideal for high-gain applications and studio recording where hum and unwanted noise can clutter tracking.
Is this system suitable for blues or jazz playing?
This system is optimized for metal, hard rock, and progressive music where high output, aggressive definition, and tight punch are priorities. Traditional jazz and blues styles typically benefit from passive, lower-output pickups with different tonal characteristics, so this active set is not the best fit for those genres.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $21 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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