What guitars is this pickup set compatible with?

The SX/SX/81X set uses a standard wiring harness compatible with most guitar configurations and requires soldering and proper grounding for installation. Confirm your guitar's routing and electronics cavity before purchasing to ensure proper fit.

Does this set require any special power or batteries?

Yes, the active circuitry requires a 9V battery to operate. The battery powers the integrated preamp in both the SX and 81X pickups for consistent signal integrity and low-impedance output.

What genres and playing styles is this set designed for?

The SX/SX/81X excels in funk, pop, and rock across studio and live settings. The dual single coils provide articulation for clean work and snap, while the 81X bridge delivers aggressive bite for leads and heavy rhythm—less suited to traditional jazz and folk applications.

How does the active design affect tone compared to passive pickups?

The active low-impedance circuit eliminates mud and unwanted noise while ensuring fast transient response and consistent output across all three positions. This yields a tight, articulate sound with enhanced sustain and harmonic clarity compared to passive alternatives.

Is soldering required to install these pickups?

Yes, installation requires soldering and proper grounding for optimal performance. The set includes a standard wiring harness, but professional installation is recommended if you lack soldering experience.

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.

EMG SX/SX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black

The EMG SX/SX/81X configuration delivers articulate single-coil clarity in the neck and middle positions paired with the aggressive bite of an 81X humbucker at the bridge. This three-pickup setup is engineered for players who demand responsive dynamics across the full tonal spectrum without sacrificing output or definition. The active circuitry ensures consistent signal integrity and sustain whether tracking clean passages or pushing saturation.

Live Performance & Tone Character

The dual SX single coils provide the articulation and snap essential for funk, pop, and clean tonal work, while the 81X bridge humbucker delivers focused aggression for lead work and heavy rhythm playing. Active circuitry with low-impedance design eliminates mud and unwanted noise, yielding a tight, articulate response across all three positions—reliable and consistent on stage night after night.

Technical Specifications

Both SX pickups operate on the EMG active standard with integrated preamp, while the 81X employs a ceramic magnet design optimized for definition and sustain. The set requires a 9V battery and standard wiring harness compatible with most guitar configurations; installation demands soldering and proper grounding for optimal performance.

Key Features

Dual EMG SX active single-coil pickups in neck and middle positions
81X active humbucker with ceramic magnet at bridge
Low-impedance active circuit design reduces noise and output impedance
Consistent output levels across all three positions
Enhanced sustain and harmonic clarity
Fast transient response ideal for articulate playing styles
Compatible with standard guitar wiring harnesses
Requires 9V battery power
Soldered connection installation
Black cover finish
Tight magnetic field for focused tone
Factory-tested and ready to install

This pickup set delivers professional-grade active performance suitable for studio sessions, touring, and live performance across multiple genres.

Best suited for	Funk, Pop, Rock, Studio Sessions, Live Performance
Tonal character	Articulate, tight, low-mud, high-output, fast transients
Less specialized for	Traditional Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional