EMG 81TW Active Humbucker 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
- EMG2736
Description
EMG 81TW Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The EMG 81TW is a dual-mode active humbucker that switches between full humbucker and single-coil voices via push/pull potentiometer, delivering tonal flexibility for diverse session requirements without sacrificing the tight, articulate response that defines EMG's house sound. Built with dual internal preamps and noise-cancelling technology across both modes, this pickup tracks cleanly through high-gain tones and transparent clean channels with equal authority. Made in the USA with solderless connections, it integrates seamlessly into modern and vintage guitar rigs used in studio work.
Tone & Recording Response
Dual internal preamps—one optimized for single-coil mode (3.6 kHz resonant frequency) and another for dual-coil mode (2.225 kHz resonant frequency)—provide dimensional tonal range that sits predictably in a mix across both voices. The ceramic/steel magnet and 10 kohm output impedance deliver tight low-end definition and articulate highs, while active circuitry ensures consistent output regardless of cable length or interface input impedance—critical for reliable multitrack capture and DI workflows.
Installation & Studio Compatibility
Measuring 69.9 x 38.1 x 27.6 mm with a mounting screw distance of 78.5 mm, the 1.1" thickness fits standard humbucker cavities without modification. The black cover maintains a clean aesthetic, and the inclusion of a 25 k tone potentiometer, 25 k push/pull potentiometer, battery bus, stereo output socket, pickup cables, output cable, battery cable, and mounting hardware enables straightforward installation and quick setup for session use.
Key Features
- Dual internal preamps—one tuned for single-coil mode, one for dual-coil mode
- Push/pull potentiometer switches between humbucker and single-coil voices
- Resonant frequency: 3.6 kHz (single-coil), 2.225 kHz (dual-coil)
- Output impedance: 10 kohm
- Ceramic/steel magnet construction
- Noise-cancelling technology in both modes
- Battery life: 1550 hours
- Solderless connections for fast installation
- Dimensions: 69.9 x 38.1 x 27.6 mm; mounting screw distance 78.5 mm
- 1.1" thickness fits standard humbucker cavities
- Black cover finish
- Made in the USA
- Includes 25 k tone potentiometer, 25 k push/pull potentiometer, battery bus, stereo output socket, and all necessary cables and hardware
The EMG 81TW combines the clarity and punch of a modern active pickup with genuine dual-voice flexibility, making it a versatile tool for producers and engineers working across genre-specific tonal palettes in the studio.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
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At a Glance
The EMG 81TW is an active dual-voice humbucker that switches between full humbucker (2.225 kHz resonant peak) and single-coil (3.6 kHz) modes, offering dimensional tonal range and noise-free operation across both settings. Its tight low-end definition and articulate high-end response sit cleanly in dense mixes, while dual internal preamps and 10 kohm output impedance ensure consistent, load-independent recording—ideal for tracking high-gain, metal, progressive, and multi-voice production sessions. Fast solderless wiring and complete hardware inclusion make integration into your session guitar straightforward, and the 1550-hour battery life keeps downtime out of your workflow.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ High-gain applications
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Extended Range
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Acoustic Folk
- – Blues
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between humbucker and single-coil modes?
The push/pull potentiometer switches the 81TW between dual-coil humbucker mode (2.225 kHz resonant frequency, tighter low end) and single-coil mode (3.6 kHz resonant frequency, brighter articulation). Each mode has its own optimized internal preamp, so you get full tonal authority in either voice without compromise.
Will this fit my guitar without modification?
Yes—the 81TW measures 69.9 x 38.1 x 27.6 mm with 1.1" thickness and 78.5 mm mounting screw distance, fitting standard humbucker cavities without routing or modification. Solderless connections also simplify installation.
How long does the battery last?
The 81TW delivers approximately 1550 hours of battery life. The active circuitry requires a 9V battery, and the included battery bus and cables make replacement straightforward.
Is this pickup good for blues and jazz?
The 81TW is optimized for high-gain, metal, progressive, and studio work; it excels with thick, articulate tones and noise-cancelling clarity in those genres. Traditional jazz and blues players typically favor passively voiced humbuckers or single-coils with different EQ characteristics.
What comes in the box?
The pickup includes both potentiometers (25 k tone and 25 k push/pull), battery bus, stereo output socket, pickup cables, output cable, battery cable, and all mounting hardware—everything you need for installation.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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