EMG4600 vs EMG4601 — Compare
EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 60 emphasizes balanced articulate midrange (2.95 kHz) with 1.0V RMS output, while the EMG 81 prioritizes tight lows and high clarity (2.25 kHz, 1.25V RMS) for heavier, higher-gain tones. Choose the 60 for versatile rock and studio work; choose the 81 for metal, djent, and aggressive styles.
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EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Higher resonant frequency (2.95 kHz) delivers more upper midrange presence and articulation
- ✓ Balanced output profile suits multiple rock subgenres without sounding one-dimensional
- ✓ Full low-end body maintains warmth across different amp settings
- ✓ Equally capable in studio and live rock contexts
Why choose EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (2.25 kHz) tightens low end for heavier, punchier response
- ✓ Higher RMS output (1.25V vs 1.0V) provides more drive and aggression
- ✓ Even lower noise floor (-91 dBV) handles extreme gain without artifacts
- ✓ Includes complete wiring kit with tone pots and battery bus for immediate installation
Frequently asked questions
What's the practical difference in how these sound?
The 60 sounds brighter and more balanced with emphasis on upper midrange (2.95 kHz), making it articulate without being thin. The 81 sounds darker and tighter with emphasis on midrange clarity (2.25 kHz) and controlled lows, excelling in high-gain metal contexts where punch and clarity compete.
Do they have the same battery life and power specs?
Both operate on a single 9V battery with 80 microamp draw and 3000 hours estimated life. The key difference is output voltage: the 60 delivers 1.0V RMS while the 81 delivers 1.25V RMS, giving the 81 more headroom and drive.
Which is better for blues or jazz?
Neither is ideal for jazz or blues per their design specifications. Both are optimized for rock and metal genres where their active noise floor and articulation shine; passive pickups typically better suit jazz and blues warmth.
Are installation and features identical?
Both feature solderless connectivity and long-shaft format. The EMG 81 comes with a complete wiring kit including tone pots, push/pull pot, battery bus, and output jack; the 60 specs do not explicitly list included accessories beyond the pickup itself.