EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3097
Description
EMG 81X Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 81X captures articulate, focused tone with tight low-end response and crisp high-end clarity—a refined take on the legendary 81 platform. This active humbucker excels in high-gain recording contexts where note definition and mix separation matter, cutting through dense arrangements without losing punch or clarity. The ivory finish provides classic aesthetic appeal while the compact form factor integrates seamlessly into virtually any pickup cavity.
Active Electronics & Studio Signal Chain
Powered by a single 9V battery with exceptional efficiency, the 81X generates controlled output that remains articulate even at extreme volumes. The onboard active circuit ensures consistent signal integrity and near-zero noise floor, making this pickup ideal for recording sessions where clean, artifact-free signal transmission is essential for layering and processing.
Tone & Frequency Response for Mixing
The ceramic/steel magnet structure and 1.63 kHz resonant frequency create a signature midrange peak that positions vocals and leads clearly within any mix. Output voltage of 3V (string) and 4.5V (strum) provides controlled dynamics without excessive compression, preserving playing articulation and sustain detail across all dynamics—critical for producing transparent, expressive recordings.
Key Features
- Ceramic/Steel (C/S) magnet construction
- Active electronics powered by single 9V battery
- Resonant frequency: 1.63 kHz
- Output voltage (string): 3V
- Output voltage (strum): 4.5V
- Output noise: -100 dBV at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 KOhm
- Battery life: 3000 hours
- Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
- Current draw at 9V: 80 mA
- Finish: Ivory
- Active humbucker configuration
The EMG 81X remains the standard-bearer for aggressive yet controllable high-output pickup performance, delivering decades of proven reliability in professional and studio environments.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81X is an active humbucker designed for recording engineers and producers tracking aggressive guitar tones that need to sit clearly in a mix without muddiness or noise floor issues. Its controlled 3–4.5V output, low noise floor, and focused midrange peak make it ideal for layering high-gain parts in metal and hard rock productions. The consistent signal integrity from its active circuit ensures reliable, repeatable takes across recording sessions.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ High-Gain Recording
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is the 81X best suited for?
The 81X excels in metal, hard rock, and high-gain recording contexts where articulate note definition and punch are essential. It is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk applications.
How does the active circuit work and what do I need to power it?
The 81X is powered by a single 9V battery and delivers exceptional efficiency with a 3000-hour battery life. The active circuit maintains a near-zero noise floor and consistent signal integrity, making it ideal for both recording and live performance.
What are the tone characteristics and output specs?
The ceramic/steel magnet structure and 1.63 kHz resonant frequency create a midrange peak that cuts through mixes. Output voltage is 3V when string struck and 4.5V when strummed, providing controlled dynamics while preserving articulation across all playing intensities.
Will this pickup fit my guitar?
The EMG 81X has a compact form factor that integrates seamlessly into virtually any standard humbucker pickup cavity. Confirm your guitar accepts standard-sized humbuckers before purchasing.
How does the 81X compare to other high-output active pickups?
The 81X is the refined version of EMG's legendary 81 platform and competes with models like the Seymour Duncan JB and DiMarzio D-Activator. It prioritizes articulation and clarity in high-gain contexts while maintaining controlled output and a tight low end.
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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