EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4319
Description
EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81X captures articulate, high-output performance in a compact active humbucker format. Engineered for producers tracking guitars that demand clarity and sustain across modern metal and hard rock productions, this pickup delivers classic EMG reliability with refined frequency response that cuts through dense mixes without losing definition.
Tone & Output Characteristics
The 81X produces a 4.00V string output with 8.50V strum output voltage, maintaining definition across the frequency spectrum with a 1.72 kHz resonant frequency that avoids the murk of lower-output designs. The integrated VLPF (Variable Low Pass Filter) active tone control rolls off unwanted high-frequency harshness, letting you dial in articulation during tracking or mixing without brittleness.
Design & Recording Integration
The dual-coil humbucker configuration with close aperture coils and steel rail pole pieces ensures tight, controlled capture of string vibrations in the recording chain. Installation is simplified by the EMG Solderless Quick-Connect system with a 3-pin Quick-Connect header—no soldering required, so you can swap configurations between session guitars efficiently.
Key Features
- Active humbucker with X-Series preamp
- Ceramic and steel magnet construction
- Steel rail pole pieces for articulate response
- 4.00V string output / 8.50V strum output voltage
- 1.72 kHz resonant frequency
- VLPF (Variable Low Pass Filter) active tone control
- Solderless Quick-Connect wiring system
- Single 9V battery operation
- 3000-hour battery life per charge
- Brushed Black Chrome finish
- Dual-coil humbucker with close aperture coils
- 3-pin Quick-Connect header
The EMG 81X combines proven active electronics with articulate output and user-friendly installation, making it an effective tracking choice for engineers and producers seeking tonal refinement and session flexibility without added complexity.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81X delivers articulate, controlled high-output tones ideal for heavy music production and drop-tuned recording sessions. Its refined frequency response and variable tone control let you dial in aggression without losing definition in your mix, and the solderless Quick-Connect system means faster turnaround between tracking and adjustments. Pick it when you need clarity and sustain in metal, hard rock, or progressive recordings.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Drop Tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, articulate, tight low end, controlled sustain, reduced harshness |
| 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 genres and tunings is the 81X designed for?
The 81X excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive music, and performs exceptionally well in drop tunings thanks to its tight, controlled low-end response. It is not optimized for jazz, blues, or folk styles.
Do I need to solder this pickup, or is installation simple?
No soldering required—the EMG 81X uses the Solderless Quick-Connect system with a 3-pin header that plugs directly into your guitar's wiring harness. Installation is straightforward and fast.
What makes the 81X different from the standard EMG 81?
The 81X refines the classic 81 with an integrated VLPF (Variable Low Pass Filter) active tone control that rolls off high-frequency harshness while maintaining articulation, and it features close-aperture coils for tighter pickup response.
How long does the battery last, and how does it power?
The 81X runs on a single 9V battery and delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life per charge, making it reliable for long sessions and touring.
Will this pickup fit any guitar, or are there compatibility concerns?
The 81X is a standard humbucker-sized pickup that fits any guitar with a humbucker cavity. Verify your guitar's pickup cavity size and wiring harness type before purchase if you are upgrading an existing pickup.
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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