EMG4860 vs EMG4861 — Compare
EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 60X emphasizes midrange clarity and articulation across multiple genres, while the EMG 81X prioritizes aggressive high-end bite and compression optimized for metal and drop tunings. Choose the 60X for versatility spanning high-gain to cleaner tones; choose the 81X if metal, hard rock, and focused lead definition are your primary focus.
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EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Broader tonal palette works in high-gain and cleaner settings
- ✓ 3.00 V single-note output with 2.28 kHz resonance emphasizes midrange clarity
- ✓ Lower noise floor at -107 dBV ensures silent operation across multiple genres
Why choose EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Crystalline high-end clarity and aggressive articulate bite optimized for metal
- ✓ Compressed, focused tones ideal for drop tunings and palm-muted rhythms
- ✓ 1.72 kHz resonance locks frequencies in the sweet spot for lead work
Frequently asked questions
What is the key tonal difference between these two pickups?
The 60X delivers midrange clarity and works across high-gain and cleaner settings, while the 81X prioritizes crystalline high-end bite and aggressive compression tailored to metal and hard rock. The 60X has a resonant peak at 2.28 kHz; the 81X peaks at 1.72 kHz for more focused, locked-in tones.
Which pickup is better for drop tunings and heavy metal?
The EMG 81X is designed specifically for drop tunings and heavy rhythm playing, delivering compressed focused tones that maintain definition in low tunings. The 60X can handle metal but is more versatile across multiple styles rather than optimized for extreme tuning applications.
Do both pickups require soldering for installation?
No, both models feature solderless Quik-Connect wiring systems for plug-and-play installation without soldering. Both use quick-connector formats and come with all necessary components for straightforward swaps.
What are the output differences between the two?
The 60X outputs 3.00 V on single notes and 8.00 V on full strums with a -107 dBV noise floor. The 81X is designed for focused, compressed output with a 10 KOhm output impedance that maintains definition across high-impedance and standard amp inputs; exact output voltages are not specified for the 81X but both support up to 27V DC configurations.