EMG2918 vs EMG3079 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
The SA/SA/85 pairs dual single-coils with a bridge humbucker for maximum aggression and punch, while the SA/SA/81 uses an 81 humbucker in the neck for a more balanced, versatile tone across positions. Choose the 85 if you prioritize heavy, saturated bridge tones; pick the 81 if you want smoother neck position response and broader stylistic flexibility.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $289.00 | $289.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Aggressive 85 humbucker in bridge position delivers serious punch and gain
- ✓ Optimized for hard rock and metal with maximum output focus
- ✓ Harmonic richness from Alnico 5 magnets supports thick, distorted tones
Why choose EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
- ✓ Complete HSS system ready to install with all wiring and hardware included
- ✓ 81 neck humbucker offers smoother, more musical response than bridge-focused designs
- ✓ Exceptional 3000-hour battery life reduces maintenance hassle
- ✓ Beginner-friendly, making it accessible to less experienced players
Frequently asked questions
What is the main tonal difference between the 85 and 81 bridge/neck configuration?
The SA/SA/85 pairs aggressive 85 humbucker output in the bridge with articulate single-coils, prioritizing hard rock and metal tone. The SA/SA/81 balances the setup with a smoother 81 humbucker in the neck position, providing warmer, more versatile response across all three pickup selections.
Which set is easier for a beginner to install?
The SA/SA/81 includes a complete wiring harness with all necessary components and mounting hardware, making it more beginner-friendly. Both use solderless connectors, but the 81 system is designed as a full retrofit package.
How do battery life and power requirements compare?
The SA/SA/81 specifies 3000 hours at 9V with only 80 microamps draw, translating to roughly one year of typical use. The SA/SA/85 description does not specify battery life, so the 81 offers clearer long-term cost predictability.
Which is better for blues or jazz players?
Neither set is ideal for traditional jazz, as both prioritize high-output active circuitry and aggressive gain. However, the SA/SA/81's smoother 81 neck position may be slightly more forgiving for cleaner, more nuanced playing compared to the 85's bridge-focused aggression.