EMG 81X Long Shaft 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
- EMG4858
Description
EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81X is a high-output active humbucker engineered to capture aggressive, articulate tones with an exceptionally low noise floor—essential for clean tracking and mixing at any gain setting. Its compact preamp circuitry and low-impedance design deliver tight low-end definition and cutting midrange presence that sits distinctly in dense mixes without requiring EQ correction. The long-shaft configuration accommodates deeper cavities and non-standard mounting applications, expanding compatibility across different instrument platforms in your sessions.
Recording Tone & Output Characteristics
This pickup generates 4.00V string output and 8.50V strum output with a 1.72 kHz resonant frequency, producing punchy articulation and controlled sustain across the fretboard that translates clearly to multitrack recording. The -105 dBV noise floor at 60Hz ensures capture of clean, hum-free signal paths even during heavy compression or gain-staging for modern production techniques, eliminating session artifacts and re-recording scenarios.
Power & Installation for Studio Use
Powered by a single 9V battery with approximately 3000 hours of battery life, the X-Series preamp operates at just 80 microamps current draw—minimizing battery changes during long tracking sessions. The EMG Solderless Quick-Connect system with 3-pin header simplifies installation and enables quick component swaps between instruments or experimental setups without downtime.
Key Features
- Active dual-coil humbucker with X-Series preamp
- Ceramic and steel magnet construction
- Steel rail pole pieces with close aperture coils
- 4.00V string output voltage
- 8.50V strum output voltage
- 1.72 kHz resonant frequency
- -105 dBV output noise (60Hz)
- 2.00 kΩ output impedance
- 80 microamps current draw at 9V
- 3000-hour battery life per 9V cell
- EMG Solderless Quick-Connect wiring system
- Long-shaft configuration for deep or recessed cavities
The 81X Long Shaft combines EMG's proven active platform with extended reach, delivering defined, noise-free output that records with precision and mixes with clarity across modern production work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81X Long Shaft is an active humbucker engineered to track clean and punchy in modern rock and metal sessions, with a -105 dBV noise floor and tight low-end definition that sits well in dense arrangements. Its 4.00V string output and 8.50V strum output deliver consistent, predictable gain staging for recording without unwanted artifacts, and the long-shaft format accommodates non-standard pickup cavities found on many studio guitars. Ideal for producers and engineers tracking heavy material who need a pickup that delivers reliability, minimal noise, and articulate midrange presence.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the long-shaft configuration do, and do I need it?
The long-shaft design accommodates deeper pickup cavities and non-standard mounting applications commonly found on certain guitar models. Use it if your guitar has a recessed or deeper-than-standard pickup route; standard-shaft pickups may not seat properly in those cavities.
How long does the battery last?
A single 9V battery provides approximately 3000 hours of playing time, or roughly 4–5 months of regular use. The pickup draws only 80 microamps, minimizing drain between battery changes.
Is this pickup suitable for blues or jazz?
No. The 81X is optimized for metal, hard rock, and progressive styles with its high output and articulate, aggressive tone profile. Jazz and blues players typically prefer lower-output, warmer-sounding pickups.
What is the noise floor, and why does it matter?
The -105 dBV noise floor at 60Hz is extremely clean, meaning the pickup produces virtually no hum or buzz even at high gain settings. This matters for live performance and recording because you can push gain hard without picking up unwanted background noise or hum artifacts.
How is this pickup installed?
The EMG Solderless Quick-Connect system uses a 3-pin header that connects without soldering, allowing tool-free installation and easy component swaps. No special wiring knowledge required.
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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