EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3085
Description
EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The EMG S/S/81 configuration pairs two ceramic single-coil pickups with an 81 bridge humbucker to deliver versatile tonal range from articulate highs to aggressive lows. This active system operates on a single 9-volt battery, eliminating passive pickup constraints and providing consistent output across the entire frequency spectrum. The ivory finish integrates cleanly into most instrument aesthetics while maintaining the proven performance characteristics EMG pickups are known for.
Tone & Output Character
The dual single-coil configuration in the neck and middle positions produces the clarity and snap essential for tracking articulate rhythm parts and expressive lead lines in the mix, while the 81 bridge humbucker delivers focused, high-output aggression that cuts through dense arrangements. Active circuitry ensures a low noise floor and dynamic range that passive designs cannot match, with output voltage stability across temperature and humidity variations—critical for maintaining consistent records across multiple takes and session days.
Active System & Studio Integration
The integrated active preamp operates from a standard 9-volt battery with an estimated runtime of 1000 hours, allowing extended periods between battery changes and eliminating mid-session power issues. Single-coil construction in ivory requires no modification to standard single-coil routes, and the 81 bridge humbucker fits conventional humbucker cavities—integration into your instrument demands only basic soldering competence and standard routing compatibility verification.
Key Features
- Two ceramic single-coil pickups (neck and middle positions)
- EMG 81 active humbucker bridge pickup
- Active preamp circuitry with 9-volt battery power
- Estimated 1000-hour battery life
- Low-noise active output design
- Ivory color finish
- Compatible with standard single-coil and humbucker routing
- Consistent output voltage across operating range
The S/S/81 set balances articulate single-coil response with potent humbucker aggression, capturing clean rhythmic detail while maintaining enough edge for lead tracking and heavy tones—ideal for producers and engineers building multi-genre sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG S/S/81 active set captures articulate single-coil snap in neck and middle positions while the 81 bridge humbucker delivers focused, high-output aggression—ideal for recording heavy and progressive material that demands clarity in rhythm sections and punch in lead work. Active circuitry eliminates the noise floor and output inconsistencies of passive designs, ensuring stable, dynamic tracking across multiple takes and temperature-controlled studio environments. The 1000-hour battery life and compact footprint make this a dependable choice for home and professional studio setups focused on modern metal and hard rock production.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Djent |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate highs, aggressive lows, low noise floor, high output, dynamic range |
| 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 playing styles is this pickup set best suited for?
The S/S/81 configuration excels in metal, hard rock, progressive, and djent playing styles where articulate rhythm clarity and aggressive bridge aggression are priorities. It is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk applications.
How long does the 9-volt battery last, and how difficult is it to change?
The battery provides an estimated 1000 hours of runtime before replacement is needed. Battery changes are straightforward maintenance requiring removal of the battery cover, typically located on the guitar body or accessible via the electronics cavity.
Will this pickup set fit my guitar without routing modifications?
The two single-coil pickups fit standard single-coil routes with no modification, and the 81 bridge humbucker fits conventional humbucker cavities. You should verify your guitar's routing compatibility before ordering, as some instruments may require minor adjustment.
How does the active circuitry compare to passive pickups?
Active circuitry delivers a lower noise floor, greater dynamic range, and consistent output voltage across temperature and humidity changes—advantages passive designs cannot provide. The integrated preamp ensures stable signal strength whether you are playing softly or aggressively.
What soldering and installation skills are required?
Installation demands only basic soldering competence and standard routing compatibility verification. If you have installed pickups before or are comfortable with fundamental soldering, this set is well within reach.
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.