EMG3656 vs EMG3960 — Compare
EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG SLVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White
The EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X is a mixed-pickup set with a humbucker bridge for heavier genres and studio versatility, while the EMG SLVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set is a full three-single-coil configuration optimized for brighter, articulate tones in rock and pop. Choose the 85X hybrid if you want aggressive bridge output and sustain; choose the all-SLVX set if you prioritize consistent single-coil character across all three positions.
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EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
EMG SLVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White
Specs side by side
| EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG SLVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.00 | $299.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Humbucker bridge (85X) delivers aggressive midrange and punchy sustain for hard rock and metal
- ✓ Mixed configuration balances crisp neck/middle single coils with powerful bridge output
- ✓ 85X aggressive character excels in high-gain and distorted applications
- ✓ Excellent note separation across clean, crunch, and high-gain tones
Why choose EMG SLVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set in White
- ✓ Pure single-coil SSS configuration maintains consistent articulate tone across all three positions
- ✓ Bright upper-midrange and controlled presence ideal for recording and live performance
- ✓ VLPF (Variable Low Pass Filter) tone circuit offers real-time tonal shaping flexibility
- ✓ Specified resonant frequency (3.75 kHz) and output specs (0.7V RMS, 1.0V peak) deliver precise, predictable performance
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for recording and studio work?
The EMG SLVX Active Single Coil Pickup Set is specifically designed for studio sessions and recording, with a low noise floor and VLPF tone circuit for real-time shaping. The SLVX/SLVX/85X hybrid also works well in studio but is better suited to heavier genres where the bridge humbucker's aggressive character shines.
What's the main tonal difference?
The SLVX/SLVX/85X offers neck and middle single-coil crispness paired with a punchy, aggressive-midrange bridge humbucker, excelling in high-gain and distortion. The all-SLVX set maintains consistent articulate single-coil tone across all positions with a brighter upper-midrange presence, better for clean and crunch tones.
Do both need soldering?
Neither requires soldering. Both use 100% solderless installation technology with complete wiring harnesses, potentiometers, battery bus, and cables included for tool-free drop-in retrofit.
Which suits metal and hard rock better?
The EMG SLVX/SLVX/85X is optimized for metal and hard rock, with its aggressive bridge humbucker delivering sustain and heavy output. The all-SLVX set is better suited to rock and pop, where bright single-coil articulation is prioritized over bridge firepower.