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EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
The SA/SA/81 is a three-pickup mixed set (two single coils plus a humbucker bridge) designed for tonal versatility across positions, while the S is a matched three-pickup all-single-coil set optimized for consistent articulate lead work and recording. Choose SA/SA/81 if you want contrasting tones between neck/middle and bridge; choose S if you prefer uniform single-coil character throughout.
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EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $279.00 | $269.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Humbucker bridge pickup (81) delivers aggressive gain and defined low-end for heavy riffs
- ✓ Mixed pickup design provides neck/middle clarity plus bridge aggression in one set
- ✓ Alnico V in SA models offers warmer, more responsive character than ceramic-only designs
Why choose EMG S Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ All-single-coil consistency ensures unified tone across all three positions
- ✓ Higher resonant frequency (4.05 kHz) centers tone in focused upper midrange for lead clarity
- ✓ Extremely low noise floor (–101 dB) ideal for studio sessions and high-gain recording
Frequently asked questions
Which set is better for metal and drop tunings?
The SA/SA/81 is specifically designed for metal and drop tunings, featuring an 81 humbucker at the bridge with aggressive output and defined low-end presence. The all-single-coil S is better suited to rock and lead work where single-coil character across all positions is preferred.
What is the main tonal difference between these sets?
SA/SA/81 blends Alnico V single coils (warmer, 3.7 kHz peak) in neck/middle with a ceramic 81 humbucker (aggressive, 1.63 kHz peak) at bridge. The S uses all ceramic single coils with a 4.05 kHz peak, delivering uniform articulate tone optimized for upper midrange clarity and lead work.
Which is better for studio recording?
The S excels in studio with its –101 dB noise floor and focused upper midrange, reducing hum interference during overdubs. The SA/SA/81 works well in studio too but is more oriented toward tracking heavier performances where bridge aggression is the priority.
Do both require solderless installation?
Yes, both sets feature EMG's solderless plug-and-play design for straightforward drop-in retrofits. Both operate on a single 9V battery with over 1000 hours of playing time per charge.