EMG3491 vs EMG3505 — Compare
EMG SA/SA/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory vs EMG SAX/SAX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The SA/SA/89 offers dual-mode versatility with a switchable bridge pickup (single-coil or humbucker response in one unit), while the SAX/SAX/81X uses fixed single-coil neck and middle pickups paired with a dedicated aggressive bridge humbucker. Choose the SA/SA/89 for maximum tonal flexibility from one bridge pickup; choose the SAX/SAX/81X for a more traditional three-pickup configuration with predictable single-coil clarity up front and focused humbucker power at the bridge.
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EMG SA/SA/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
EMG SAX/SAX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG SA/SA/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | EMG SAX/SAX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $309.00 | $309.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SA/SA/89 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Dual-mode 89 bridge pickup toggles between bright single-coil (3.80 kHz) and warm humbucker tones (2.00 kHz) in one unit
- ✓ Exceptional noise floor across modes: -107 dBV single-coil, -109 dBV dual-coil on the bridge pickup
- ✓ Extended battery life on SA models: 1000 hours at 9V with lower current draw
Why choose EMG SAX/SAX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Three dedicated pickups provide consistent, predictable response in each position without mode switching
- ✓ Aggressive 81X bridge delivers compressed sustain and midrange punch optimized for hard-hitting lead work
- ✓ X series preamp design offers improved headroom and signal clarity compared to earlier EMG generations
Frequently asked questions
Which set is better for quickly switching between clean and heavy tones during a performance?
The SA/SA/89 excels here because the 89 bridge pickup's dual-mode toggle lets you shift from bright single-coil articulation to warm compressed response instantly without changing pickups. The SAX/SAX/81X requires different pickup positions or guitar switching to change overall character significantly.
Which has lower noise and better signal quality?
Both are exceptionally quiet, but the SA/SA/89's 89 bridge pickup achieves -107 dBV (single) and -109 dBV (dual-coil) noise floors. The SAX/SAX/81X uses X series preamp design for improved headroom and clarity. For pure noise specs, the SA/SA/89 edges ahead; for overall signal resilience, the SAX/SAX/81X's preamp architecture is slightly more refined.
Are these sets compatible with any guitar, or do I need specific wiring?
Both are active pickup sets requiring 9V battery power and installation into guitars with proper routing and shielding. The SA/SA/89 fits standard single-coil cavities in the neck and middle, with a humbucker-sized cavity (or single-coil adapter ring) for the dual-mode 89 bridge. The SAX/SAX/81X requires standard single-coil neck/middle cavities and a humbucker bridge cavity for the 81X.
Which suits metal and hard rock better?
Both are designed for rock and metal. The SAX/SAX/81X's dedicated 81X bridge pickup delivers aggressive, compressed midrange punch optimized for high-gain scenarios. The SA/SA/89's dual-coil 89 mode matches this compression and output but adds the option to dial back to bright single-coil articulation. Choose the SAX/SAX/81X for locked-in bridge aggression; choose the SA/SA/89 for tonal flexibility within the same guitar.