EMG 808 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG2651
Description
EMG 808 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 808 is a high-output active soapbar engineered for 8-string instruments, delivering the aggressive, articulate response that extended-range tracking demands in studio and mix scenarios. Its compact soapbar footprint integrates seamlessly into modern instrument designs while maintaining the clarity and punch essential for capturing defined, punchy recordings across all eight strings.
Tone & Output Performance
Dual Alnico magnets paired with active circuitry produce a 2.00 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes midrange clarity and definition—critical for maintaining presence and separation in dense mixes. String pickup yields 2.00V output, while strummed passages reach 4.50V, ensuring consistent articulation tracking from pick dynamics and tight low-end definition on extended tunings for clean recording takes.
Electronics & Studio Reliability
The active circuit operates at just 80 microamps @ 9V, delivering an exceptional 3000-hour battery life for uninterrupted studio sessions and supporting supply voltages up to 27V DC for maximum headroom in the signal chain. Output noise specs of -104 dB and 10 kΩ impedance ensure a clean, transparent signal path with minimal interference—essential for layer-heavy productions and recording applications requiring pristine tracking clarity.
Key Features
- Active Soapbar Mount design sized for 8-string instruments
- Dual coil with Alnico magnet construction
- 2.00 kHz resonant frequency for defined midrange response
- 2.00V output voltage (string), 4.50V output voltage (strum)
- -104 dB output noise specification
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 80 microamps current draw @ 9V supply
- 3000-hour battery life
- Maximum 27V DC supply voltage rating
- Quik-Connect wiring harness
- Includes pre-wired volume/tone knob set, output jack, battery clip set, screws and springs
- Two-year manufacturer warranty
The EMG 808 combines proven active electronics with extended-range voicing, delivering the output clarity, noise floor transparency, and battery efficiency required for professional 8-string recording and production work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 808 is a high-output active soapbar designed to capture clear, articulate 8-string guitar tones with punchy midrange definition and controlled low-end response. Its 2.00 kHz resonant peak and active circuitry yield a 4.50V output ceiling with minimal noise (-104 dB), making it ideal for tracking modern metal, djent, and progressive music where string clarity and session consistency matter. The extended battery life (3000 hours) and included pre-wired harness reduce studio setup friction, letting you focus on performance.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Djent, Progressive, Drop Tunings, Extended Range |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, articulate midrange, tight low end, aggressive response, defined clarity |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What tunings and genres is this pickup best suited for?
The EMG 808 excels in metal, djent, progressive, and drop-tuning applications where articulate midrange and tight low-end definition are critical. Its active output and noise floor make it less ideal for jazz, blues, or folk playing styles.
How long does the battery last, and what voltage options does it support?
The pickup draws only 80 microamps at 9V and delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life. It also supports supply voltages up to 27V DC for maximum headroom in demanding live or recording setups.
What comes included with the EMG 808?
The package includes a pre-wired volume and tone knob set, output jack, battery clip set, mounting screws, springs, and a Quik-Connect wiring harness for straightforward installation.
How does the output compare between single strings and full strums?
Single-string output measures 2.00V, while full strums reach 4.50V, ensuring consistent articulation across pick dynamics and maintaining clarity on extended-range tunings.
What is the noise specification, and why does it matter?
The pickup delivers -104 dB output noise with 10 kΩ impedance, ensuring a clean signal path with minimal interference—critical for modern recording and live applications where background hum or hiss can affect mix clarity.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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