EMG SAX/SAX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3506
Description
EMG SAX/SAX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
The EMG SAX single-coil pickup delivers articulate, punchy response with the tight low end and extended highs characteristic of EMG's active designs. This white-finished unit integrates seamlessly into modern and classic guitar setups, offering the clarity and dynamic range that active electronics bring to single-coil voicing. The low-impedance preamp and solderless installation system make this pickup accessible for both experienced techs and first-time upgraders.
Electronics & Tone Character
Built around an Alnico V bar magnet, the SAX produces a focused, articulate single-coil tone with controlled feedback and tight articulation—essential for players who need clarity without the hum and noise floor of passive designs. The internal shielding and active preamp eliminate noise and deliver consistent output across the frequency range, holding up equally well for clean definition and pushed, overdriven tones on stage.
Installation & Power
The solderless install system includes a 25k volume pot, active tone pot with variable low-pass filter (VLPF), battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, and all necessary cables—designed for quick, reliable setup without soldering. The pickup operates on a 9V battery, providing the stable power envelope that active circuits require for consistent output and rock-solid noise rejection during live performance.
Key Features
- Alnico V bar magnet for focused, articulate tone
- Active single-coil design with internal shielding
- Low-impedance preamp for tight, controlled response
- 9V battery power requirement
- Solderless installation system included
- 25k volume pot integrated
- Variable low-pass filter active tone control (VLPF)
- Battery bus and stereo output jack included
- Mounting screws and springs provided
- White finish
- EMG quality construction and reliability
This pickup combines the articulation and clarity of single-coil character with the noise-free performance and consistent output of active electronics, delivering a reliable tool for gigging musicians and studio players who demand modern single-coil tone without compromise.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SAX is an active single-coil pickup that delivers articulate, punchy tone with a tight low end and extended highs—eliminating the hum and noise floor of passive designs. Built around an Alnico V magnet and featuring internal shielding, it excels at clean definition and holds its own when pushed into overdrive, making it ideal for modern rock and session players who demand clarity without compromise. The solderless installation system and included electronics (25k volume pot, active tone control with variable low-pass filter, 9V battery bus) mean you can get professional results without soldering experience.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Home Recording
- ✓ Clean Tones
- ✓ Modern Rock
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Vintage Passive Aesthetics
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to solder this pickup, or can a beginner install it?
No soldering required. The EMG SAX uses a solderless installation system and comes with all necessary components: 25k volume pot, active tone pot with variable low-pass filter, battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, and cables. First-time upgraders and experienced techs can both handle the setup.
What's the difference between this and a passive single-coil?
The SAX is an active design powered by a 9V battery, which eliminates hum and noise floor while delivering a consistent, focused output across the frequency range. Its low-impedance preamp and internal shielding provide tight articulation and extended highs without the noise issues that plague passive single-coils.
What genres and tones does this pickup handle best?
The SAX excels in modern rock, studio sessions, and clean tones where articulation and clarity matter. It delivers punchy response with controlled feedback, making it equally effective for clean definition and overdriven aggression. It is not designed for traditional jazz or vintage passive aesthetics.
How often do I need to replace the 9V battery?
The product description does not specify battery life or replacement intervals. Typical 9V active pickup batteries last several months to over a year depending on use; consult EMG's documentation for your specific model.
What's included in the box?
The package includes the SAX pickup, 25k volume pot, active tone pot with variable low-pass filter (VLPF), battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting screws and springs, and all necessary cables for solderless installation.
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 $22 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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