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EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in White
Both are EMG 81X pickups with identical active electronics and battery life, differing only in finish color and minor output/tone voicing. Choose ivory for a classic look with slightly lower output and midrange peak suited to cutting leads; choose white for modern aesthetics with higher output and tighter bass ideal for aggressive metal and drop tunings.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in White | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $125.00 | $125.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Classic ivory finish aesthetic
- ✓ Slightly lower output (3V/4.5V) for cleaner articulation in high-gain
- ✓ 1.63 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes vocal-like midrange peak for lead cutting
Why choose EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in White
- ✓ Modern white finish
- ✓ Higher output voltage (4.00V/8.50V strum) delivers punchy aggression for metal
- ✓ 1.72 kHz resonant frequency tightens bass response for drop-tuning clarity
- ✓ Solderless Quick-Connect wiring system speeds installation
Frequently asked questions
What's the actual tonal difference between these two pickups?
The ivory model emphasizes midrange peak (1.63 kHz) with lower output (3V string / 4.5V strum) for articulate lead work and vocal clarity. The white model has a tighter resonance (1.72 kHz) and significantly higher output (4.00V string / 8.50V strum) optimized for chunky riffs and extreme gain. Both have the same low-end tightness and active electronics.
Are the wiring systems different?
The white pickup includes EMG's Solderless Quick-Connect system with 3-pin header, eliminating soldering. The ivory model's wiring system is not specified, so confirm with the retailer if solderless convenience is important to you.
Which is better for drop tunings and djent?
The white EMG 81X is specifically recommended for drop tunings and djent, with higher output and tighter bass response ideal for heavy, low-tuned riffs. The ivory is better suited to standard tunings and lead-oriented playing.
Do they use the same battery and have the same runtime?
Both are powered by a single 9V battery with approximately 3000 hours of runtime, making them equally practical for gigging and recording applications.