EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed 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
- EMG4866
Description
EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 81X is a high-output active humbucker engineered to capture aggressive, articulate tone with an exceptionally low noise floor—essential for tracking and mixing in the studio. This long-shaft variant integrates seamlessly into modern guitar setups, delivering tight, controlled response across the full dynamic range. Built for recording sessions where clarity and presence cut through dense arrangements and high-gain tracking scenarios.
Tone & Recording Performance
The 81X combines ceramic and steel magnets with close-aperture dual coils to produce a focused, punchy output that translates well to tape and digital interfaces. With 8.50V strum voltage and 4.00V string voltage, this pickup captures definition without bloat—the 1.72 kHz resonant frequency keeps mids articulate and poking through the mix while the -105 dB output noise specification ensures a clean signal path ideal for layered recordings and post-production work.
Studio Integration & Setup
The EMG Solderless Quick-Connect system streamlines instrument prep and eliminates downtime between sessions without requiring traditional soldering. Standard humbucker mounting accommodates most guitar cavities, while the 3-pin Quick-Connect header and 1/4" output jack provide flexible interface options for home-studio environments. Single 9V battery powers the preamp for approximately 3000 hours of playing time, keeping session interruptions to a minimum.
Key Features
- Active humbucker with X-Series preamp
- Dual-coil configuration with close-aperture coils
- Ceramic and steel magnet system
- Steel rail pole pieces
- 8.50V strum voltage / 4.00V string voltage output
- -105 dB output noise specification
- 1.72 kHz resonant frequency
- 2.00 kΩ output impedance
- EMG Solderless Quick-Connect wiring system
- 80 microamps current @ 9V
- Approximately 3000-hour battery life per 9V cell
- Standard humbucker mounting ring
The 81X delivers the controlled aggression and noise rejection required for modern high-gain tracking and production without compromise.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81X is a high-output active humbucker engineered to sit clearly in dense, heavy mixes with minimal noise and maximum articulation across the frequency range. Its -105 dB output noise spec and 1.72 kHz resonant peak make it ideal for recording aggressive genres where definition and presence matter; the tight low end and punchy midrange cut through compression and effects without muddiness. Quick-Connect wiring speeds up mic-to-tape workflow when you're tracking multiple takes.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Djent, High-Gain Recording, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, tight low end, articulate mids, minimal noise, punchy |
| 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 does 'long shaft' mean, and will it fit my guitar?
Long shaft refers to the pickup's threaded mounting post height; it's designed for modern guitars with standard humbucker cavities. Standard humbucker mounting rings ensure compatibility with most modern solidbody guitars.
Is this pickup good for genres outside metal and hard rock?
The 81X is optimized for high-gain, aggressive tones and minimal noise in tight mixes. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk styles, which typically benefit from warmer, more dynamic passive pickups.
Do I need to solder this pickup, or can I install it myself?
The EMG Solderless Quick-Connect system eliminates traditional soldering; it uses a 3-pin header and 1/4" output jack for flexible wiring. A single 9V battery powers the preamp and lasts approximately 3000 hours of playing time.
How does the 81X compare to a passive humbucker or other active pickups?
The 81X is an active humbucker with 8.50V strum voltage and -105 dB output noise, delivering higher output and lower noise than most passive humbuckers. It shares aggressive voice with the standard EMG 81 but with enhanced articulation and presence.
What kind of tone should I expect from this pickup?
Expect high output, tight low end, articulate mids, and minimal noise—a focused, punchy response designed to cut through dense mixes. The 1.72 kHz resonant frequency keeps midrange definition sharp in high-gain applications.
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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