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EMG 808X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 808X is a soapbar pickup built specifically for 8-string instruments with a bright, punchy character, while the EMG 81TWX is a dual-mode humbucker for standard 6- or 7-string guitars offering aggressive tone with humbucker/single-coil switching. Choose the 808X if you play extended-range instruments; choose the 81TWX if you play drop-tuned standard guitars and want tonal variety.
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EMG 808X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory
EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG 808X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory | EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $145.00 | $145.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 808X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Engineered specifically for 8-string routing with exact 95.3 mm screw spacing
- ✓ Compact soapbar design fits all pickup positions on extended-range guitars
- ✓ Variable low-pass filter tone pot for real-time bright-to-dark shaping
- ✓ Articulate Alnico 5 magnet delivers clarity on extended dynamic range
Why choose EMG 81TWX Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Dual-mode switching lets you toggle between thick humbucker and snappy single-coil via push/pull pot
- ✓ Aggressive ceramic magnet cuts through dense mixes in drop-tuned contexts
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life and ultra-low 80 µA current draw reduce maintenance
- ✓ Fatter 1.1 inch profile accommodates long-shaft variants for routing flexibility
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup fits my guitar?
The 808X is built for 8-string instruments with 95.3 mm screw spacing and compact soapbar dimensions. The 81TWX uses standard humbucker cavities (70 mm width, 78 mm screw spacing) on 6- or 7-string guitars. Confirm your guitar's cavity size and string count before ordering.
What tone character should I expect from each?
The 808X delivers tight, bright, and punchy articulation with extended dynamic range suited to precision picking and djent. The 81TWX produces aggressive, thick output that cuts through dense mixes, with dual-mode flexibility for humbucker punch or single-coil snap.
How do battery and maintenance compare?
Both use a single 9V battery. The 81TWX boasts 3000-hour battery life with minimal current draw (80 µA), extending service intervals. The 808X uses standard 9V power without a published service hour rating.
Can I use these for jazz or blues?
Neither pickup is ideal for jazz or blues. The 808X is optimized for metal and djent, while the 81TWX is engineered for metal and hard rock. Both deliver high output and aggressive articulation that mismatches traditional jazz and blues aesthetics.