EMG3315 vs EMG3316 — Compare
EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
Both are identical EMG 81X pickups with the same electronics, output, and performance—the only difference is cosmetic finish. Choose Chrome if you prefer a classic silver look, or Gold if you want a warmer visual aesthetic; either will perform identically in metal, hard rock, and high-gain contexts.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Chrome finish matches traditional metal aesthetics
- ✓ Identical tone and output to Product B
- ✓ Solderless installation saves setup time
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life minimizes maintenance
Why choose EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Gold finish offers distinctive visual appeal
- ✓ Identical aggressive tone and articulation to Product A
- ✓ Fast solderless quick-connect system
- ✓ Accessible to beginners through advanced players
Frequently asked questions
Is there any tonal difference between Chrome and Gold finishes?
No. Both models share identical X-Series preamp architecture, ceramic and steel magnets, 4.00V string output, 8.50V strum output, and 1.72 kHz resonant frequency. The finish is cosmetic only.
Which is better for metal and djent?
Both are equally suited to metal and djent. The 8.50V strum output, tight low-end, aggressive midrange, and steel rail pole pieces (reducing noise) make either pickup excellent for high-gain styles.
How long does the 9V battery last?
Both pickups offer 3000-hour battery life with an 80-microamp current draw, meaning the battery should last roughly 125 days of continuous use before needing replacement.
Can beginners use these, or are they only for advanced players?
Product B explicitly lists beginners as suitable, while Product A starts at intermediate skill level. However, both are robust enough for any experience level—the X-Series preamp is forgiving and the solderless system makes installation simple for anyone.