EMG3081 vs EMG3083 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
The SA/SA/81 is a single pickup upgrade for existing guitars seeking articulate, chimey highs with controlled lows, while the S/S/81 is a complete three-pickup set designed for versatility across neck, middle, and bridge positions with higher output and aggressive lead capability. The SA/SA/81 suits players retrofitting one position; the S/S/81 suits those replacing an entire pickup system.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG S/S/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/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Budget-friendly single-pickup upgrade for targeted tonal improvement
- ✓ Articulate highs and chimey character ideal for rhythm definition and cut-through
- ✓ Alnico V magnet provides responsive dynamics across pick attacks
Why choose EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in White
- ✓ Complete three-pickup set covers neck, middle, and bridge positions in one purchase
- ✓ Significantly higher output (3.00V RMS vs 0.6V RMS) for aggressive leads and high-gain applications
- ✓ Solderless installation system eliminates soldering requirement
Frequently asked questions
What's the main output difference between these two?
The SA/SA/81 delivers 0.6V RMS output, designed for articulate definition. The S/S/81 set produces 3.00V RMS output, providing significantly more headroom and sustain for high-gain and aggressive playing styles.
Can I buy just the bridge pickup from the S/S/81 set?
The SA/SA/81 is marketed as a single-pickup unit, while the S/S/81 is a complete three-pickup system. If you need only a bridge replacement, the SA/SA/81 would be the appropriate single-unit choice.
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
The S/S/81 is explicitly optimized for metal and high-gain applications with its higher output and tight low end, though the SA/SA/81 also suits hard rock. The S/S/81 excels at aggressive saturated leads, while the SA/SA/81 emphasizes articulate definition.
Do both use the same battery and lifespan?
Yes, both systems use a single 9V battery with approximately 3000 hours of battery life, or roughly four months of daily use before replacement.