EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG110
Description
EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG S/S/81 delivers articulate single-coil clarity in the neck and middle positions paired with the punchy, high-output character of the legendary EMG 81 bridge humbucker. This three-pickup configuration captures versatile tonal range without sacrificing the aggressive edge that defines EMG's active circuit sound. The solderless connectors and included wiring harness streamline the recording setup process on compatible instruments.
Tone & Electronics for Tracking
The ceramic magnet construction across all three pickups ensures bright, cutting response with controlled sustain that records with clarity across your mix. The EMG 81 bridge pickup operates at a 1.63 kHz resonant frequency, delivering the high-output punch suited to lead takes and solos, while the single coils provide the articulation needed for tight rhythm tracking and layering clean guitar beds. Active circuitry powered by a standard 9V battery (rated for over 1000 hours of playing time) maintains consistent output and noise rejection across all positions—critical for maintaining coherent tonal character from track to track in your session.
Installation & Wiring
The solderless connectors eliminate traditional soldering requirements, reducing installation complexity and getting your instrument session-ready faster. This set includes everything needed for a complete upgrade: volume pot, tone pots, three-way selector switch, output jack, pickup cables, battery cable, and mounting hardware—all components are manufactured to EMG's specifications and made in the USA.
Key Features
- Three-position configuration: bridge, middle, and neck
- Hybrid design combining EMG 81 humbucker with ceramic single coils
- High output active circuit
- Ceramic magnet material
- Solderless connectors for simplified installation
- EMG 81 bridge pickup resonant frequency: 1.63 kHz
- DC resistance per pickup: 10 kΩ
- 9V battery power (1000+ hours operating time)
- Includes volume and tone controls, selector switch, and all cables
- Complete wiring harness and mounting hardware included
- Made in the USA
The S/S/81 delivers three distinct recorded voices while maintaining EMG's signature active performance and reliability across your production work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG S/S/81 gives you three distinct voices in one system: bright, articulate single-coil clarity for rhythm and texture, paired with the high-output EMG 81 bridge humbucker for aggressive, cutting lead tones that sit powerfully in a mix. The active circuit with ceramic magnets delivers controlled sustain, noise rejection, and a 1000+ hour battery life, making it reliable for long studio sessions and overdub work. This is the pickup set for producers and engineers tracking metal, hard rock, and progressive music who need tonal flexibility without sacrificing punch or articulation.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate single-coil clarity, high-output aggression, bright cutting response, controlled sustain, active circuit noise rejection |
| 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 guitar types is the S/S/81 compatible with?
The S/S/81 is designed for standard Strat-style pickguard configurations with single-coil spacing in the neck and middle positions and a humbucker routing at the bridge. The solderless connectors and included wiring harness are straightforward to install on compatible instruments, though individual guitar geometry may vary.
How long does the 9V battery last before needing replacement?
The 9V battery is rated for over 1000 hours of playing time. Typical players should expect several months of regular use before needing a fresh battery, depending on daily playing time.
Is this pickup set suitable for styles outside of metal and hard rock?
The S/S/81 is optimized for metal, hard rock, and progressive music. The active circuit and high-output bridge pickup are less well-suited to jazz, blues, and folk styles, which typically benefit from lower-output, warmer passive pickups.
What is included in the complete wiring harness?
The set includes volume and tone pots, a three-way selector switch, output jack, pickup cables, battery cable, mounting hardware, and all three pickups. Everything is manufactured to EMG specifications and made in the USA, so no additional components are needed for a complete swap.
How does the active circuit improve performance compared to passive pickups?
The active circuit maintains consistent output and noise rejection across all three pickup positions and frequencies, critical for heavy, articulate playing where signal clarity and sustain matter. The ceramic magnet construction across all three pickups delivers a bright, cutting response with controlled sustain suited to aggressive lead and rhythm work.
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. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $20 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.