EMG SA Active Single Coil 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
- EMG1218
Description
EMG SA Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The EMG SA captures the articulate snap and clarity of a classic single-coil design with the consistency and low-noise floor of active electronics. This pickup combines traditional Alnico V character with modern circuit topology, delivering definition across genres without the hum and susceptibility that plague passive designs—essential for tracking clean, controlled takes in the studio.
Tone & Recording Response
Built around an Alnico V bar magnet and tuned to a resonant frequency of 3.70 KHz, the SA produces punchy midrange articulation with transparent highs that sit naturally in a mix. The active preamp circuit keeps output noise at -101 dBV across the power band, yielding 1.00 V string output and 3.00 V strum output for responsive dynamics and minimal 60 Hz hum—critical for reducing noise during overdubs and post-production editing.
Studio Integration & Setup
The low-impedance preamp and internal shielding ensure quiet operation even in high-gain recording scenarios and densely-miked sessions. Installation integrates seamlessly into your rig: the included solderless connection system with pickup and connect cables means no downtime soldering during sessions. Power efficiency supports extended tracking days—the pickup draws just 80 microamps at 9V for battery life up to 3000 hours, and the circuit tolerates supply voltages up to 27 volts DC for flexible power configurations across different rigs.
Key Features
- Alnico V bar magnet for warm, focused single-coil character
- Resonant frequency: 3.70 KHz
- Output voltage (string): 1.00 V
- Output voltage (strum): 3.00 V
- Output noise: -101 dBV at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 KOhm
- Current draw: 80 microamps at 9V nominal
- Battery life: 3000 hours typical
- Maximum supply voltage: 27 volts DC
- Active preamp with internal shielding
- Solderless installation system with cables included
- Ivory finish
The EMG SA merges single-coil articulation with the noise immunity and operational consistency that active circuitry provides, making it a dependable choice for tracking vintage-voiced and high-output applications with minimal post-production noise cleanup.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SA brings transparent single-coil definition and warm character to recording sessions with active noise rejection that keeps your tracks clean at -101 dBV. Its punchy midrange and articulate highs cut through mixes without the 60 Hz hum that can plague passive pickups, and the consistent 1.0 V string output ensures predictable, responsive capture across rock, pop, funk, and studio genres. Solderless installation and extended battery life (3000 hours) make it a hassle-free choice for home studios and session work.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Rock, Pop, Funk, Studio Sessions, Home Recording |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate snap, punchy midrange, transparent highs, warm single-coil character, low-noise |
| Less specialized for | Traditional Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this pickup really need a battery, and how long does it last?
Yes, the EMG SA runs on a 9V battery that lasts approximately 3000 hours under typical use. The circuit draws only 80 microamps, so battery changes are infrequent, and the design tolerates supply voltages up to 27V DC if you prefer an external or rechargeable power solution.
What skill level is this pickup designed for?
The SA suits beginner through professional players across rock, pop, funk, studio, and home-recording applications. Its active circuitry and low-noise floor make it forgiving in high-gain contexts while delivering the clarity that advanced players expect.
Is soldering required to install it?
No—the pickup includes a solderless connection system with pickup and connect cables, so installation is straightforward and requires no soldering experience.
How does the EMG SA compare to other single-coil options?
The SA blends the warm, articulate character of vintage single-coils (comparable to Fender Custom Shop 69 or Lollar Imperial tone) with the noise immunity and consistency of active electronics, eliminating hum and susceptibility issues that passive designs face.
What genres is this pickup best suited for?
The SA excels in rock, pop, funk, and studio sessions where articulate definition and low noise are priorities. It is not recommended for traditional jazz or folk applications where vintage passive voicing is preferred.
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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