EMG129 vs EMG1977 — Compare
EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG AB After Burner Variable Gain Boost Pickup Control Pot
The EMG SA is a pickup that replaces your existing pickup to deliver articulate, low-noise single-coil tones with active circuitry; the EMG AB is a boost control that installs as a replacement pot to add up to 20dB of variable gain on top of any existing pickup. Choose the SA if you need a new pickup for clean, defined tones; choose the AB if you want a volume/tone boost for leads without changing your current pickup.
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EMG AB After Burner Variable Gain Boost Pickup Control Pot
Specs side by side
| EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG AB After Burner Variable Gain Boost Pickup Control Pot | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $89.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Low noise floor (-101 dB) keeps clean tones articulate in electrically noisy environments
- ✓ Responsive dynamics with 3.00 V output on aggressive strums
- ✓ Exceptional 3000-hour battery life from single 9V battery
- ✓ Solderless 2-conductor connection simplifies installation
Why choose EMG AB After Burner Variable Gain Boost Pickup Control Pot
- ✓ Up to 20dB of variable gain boost for leads or pushing tube amps into overdrive
- ✓ Works with both active and passive pickups—no pickup swap needed
- ✓ Installs as a replacement pot—minimal wiring changes
- ✓ Transparent boost preserves your existing tone character
Frequently asked questions
Can I use both the EMG SA and the EMG AB together?
Yes. The SA is a pickup and the AB is a boost control, so they serve different functions. You could install the SA as your pickup and add the AB as a replacement tone or volume pot to gain additional lead boost capability.
Which is better for high-gain metal?
Neither is ideal for thick, high-gain metal rhythm work. The SA is designed for clean tones and articulate leads; the AB is a boost for clean tones and tube amp pushing, not for sustaining heavy distortion. Both suit lead work and overdriven tones more than aggressive metal riffing.
Does the EMG AB work with my passive pickups?
Yes. The AB boost works with both active and passive pickups, so you don't need to swap your current pickup to use it. The SA, by contrast, is an active pickup itself and replaces your existing pickup entirely.
How long does the EMG SA battery last?
Approximately 3000 hours from a single 9V battery, drawing only 80 microamps. The AB also uses a 9V battery but specs are not detailed in the product information.