EMG127 vs EMG4836 — Compare
EMG EMG-SA Set - Black (Set of 3) SA Series Strat Pickups vs EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
The SA Set is a bright, noiseless active single-coil pickup designed for blues, rock, and funk; the Marty Friedman is a medium-high output passive humbucker built for metal, hard rock, and lead work. Choose the SA for classic Strat articulation and creamy warmth; choose the Marty Friedman for aggressive midrange definition and sustain in heavier genres.
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EMG EMG-SA Set - Black (Set of 3) SA Series Strat Pickups
EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG EMG-SA Set - Black (Set of 3) SA Series Strat Pickups | EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $269.00 | $249.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG EMG-SA Set - Black (Set of 3) SA Series Strat Pickups
- ✓ Noiseless active design eliminates hum without losing true single-coil character
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver balanced output during string bends and articulate blues tones
- ✓ Includes solderless install system with pots, jacks, and all wiring hardware
- ✓ Versatile across beginner through professional skill levels
Why choose EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Passive design with natural dynamics and harmonic richness suited to metal and hard rock
- ✓ Articulate midrange and smooth high-end clarity for lead work and heavy passages
- ✓ Four-conductor solderless wiring enables coil-split versatility for tonal options
- ✓ Standard humbucker routing fits most guitars without modification
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup set is easier to install?
Both feature solderless wiring for simplified installation. The SA Set includes a complete solderless install system with pots and jacks ready to wire; the Marty Friedman uses four-conductor solderless connectors and fits standard humbucker cavities as a drop-in replacement.
Can I use the SA Set for metal?
The SA Set is explicitly not ideal for metal or thrash metal. Its bright, airy tone and bell-like harmonics suit blues and rock better. The Marty Friedman's aggressive midrange and higher output are optimized for metal genres.
What is the main tonal difference between active and passive designs here?
The SA Set is active with a low-impedance preamp that kills noise while preserving single-coil articulation and warmth. The Marty Friedman is passive, relying on Alnico 5 magnets for natural dynamics and harmonic richness without a preamp, offering more traditional humbucker character.
Which set gives more output for volume and sustain?
The Marty Friedman delivers medium-high output optimized for sustain and aggressive playing. The SA Set offers balanced output tuned for articulate, expressive tone rather than raw volume—better suited to blues and funk dynamics.