EMG3401 vs EMG3656 — Compare
EMG SAVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White vs EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The SAVX is a matched pair of active single-coil pickups designed for bright, articulate tones across rock, pop, indie, and jazz; the SLVX/SLVX/85X is a three-pickup mixed configuration pairing single-coils with a bridge humbucker for higher output and aggressive midrange suited to rock, hard rock, and metal. Choose SAVX for single-coil purists seeking consistent brightness, and SLVX/SLVX/85X for players who want single-coil clarity up front with heavier bridge punch.
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EMG SAVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White
EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG SAVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White | EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.00 | $299.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SAVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White
- ✓ Matched pair of identical single-coils for balanced, consistent articulate tone
- ✓ Active tone control (VLPF) for hands-on high-frequency shaping
- ✓ Lower noise floor (-90 dBV) ideal for clean and jazz applications
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver classic single-coil brightness and character
Why choose EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Three-pickup set ready to install across all positions—no additional purchases needed
- ✓ Bridge humbucker (85X) provides aggressive midrange and higher sustain for rock and metal
- ✓ Versatile configuration handles both clean and high-gain without sacrificing definition
- ✓ X-Series preamp emulates passive warmth while maintaining active noise rejection
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for rock and metal?
The SLVX/SLVX/85X is better suited to rock and metal because its bridge 85X humbucker delivers aggressive midrange and higher output that traditional metal and hard rock require. The SAVX, being an all-single-coil pair, excels in rock and pop but may lack the sustain and aggression needed for heavy genres.
Are these solderless systems easy to install?
Both use EMG's solderless wiring system, eliminating traditional soldering. The SAVX requires a standard two-pickup install, while the SLVX/SLVX/85X comes as a complete three-pickup harness with all components included, making routing simpler if you're retrofitting a three-single-coil or SSS guitar.
What's the battery life difference?
Both systems run on a single 9V battery. The SAVX draws 240 microamps and delivers approximately 1000 hours of battery life. Battery life for the SLVX/SLVX/85X is not specified in the provided documentation, but as a three-pickup active system, it may have higher current draw.
Can I use these in a jazz context?
The SAVX is explicitly noted as suitable for jazz and features low-noise output (-90 dBV) and active tone control ideal for clean, articulate playing. The SLVX/SLVX/85X is marked as not ideal for jazz because its aggressive midrange character and bridge humbucker are designed for heavier rock and metal tones.