EMG SA/SA/81 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
- EMG3081
Description
EMG SA/SA/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The EMG SA single-coil delivers articulate, chimey highs with controlled lows—a hallmark of EMG's active design philosophy. This ivory-finished unit pairs exceptional clarity with the noise rejection that active circuitry provides, making it essential for tracking and mixing sessions where definition and hum-free operation are non-negotiable. The Alnico V magnet ensures responsive dynamics across pick attacks and string bends, capturing nuance consistently across multiple takes.
Tone & Electronics
The 3.75 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes upper midrange articulation, ideal for rhythm takes that cut through dense mixes and lead lines with natural presence. With 0.6V RMS output and 0.85V peak output, this pickup delivers consistent signal to audio interfaces and preamps without excessive compression, while the -90 dBV output noise floor ensures clean recording chain operation free from 60-cycle hum—critical when stacking takes or running direct recording workflows.
Power & Specifications
The 9V battery supply operates at just 80 microamps current draw, yielding 3000 hours of battery life—roughly four months of daily studio use before replacement. The 10 kΩ output impedance interfaces cleanly with standard studio electronics and audio interfaces, minimizing signal coloration throughout the production chain.
Key Features
- Active single-coil design with Alnico V magnet
- Ivory finish
- 3.75 kHz resonant frequency
- 0.6V RMS output voltage
- 0.85V peak output voltage
- -90 dBV output noise specification
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 80 microamps current draw at 9V
- 3000-hour battery life (9V)
- Includes 25k volume pot, dual 25k tone pots, 5-way selector, and complete wiring harness
This EMG SA pickup balances the tonal clarity of a traditional single-coil with the noise immunity and output consistency of active circuitry, delivering reliable tracking and mixing performance across sessions and production styles.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SA/SA/81 active single-coil captures articulate highs and controlled lows with exceptional clarity and zero hum—a workhorse for recording rock, metal, and hard-rock tracks that need to cut through a dense mix. Its 3.75 kHz resonant peak emphasizes upper-midrange definition, and the consistent 0.6V RMS output feeds preamps and interfaces cleanly without compression or coloration. This pickup excels at tracking rhythm and lead work where tonal separation and noise-free operation matter most.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Studio Sessions, Gigging |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate highs, controlled lows, upper midrange emphasis, high clarity, noise-free |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the battery life, and how often will I need to replace it?
The 9V battery lasts approximately 3000 hours—roughly four months of daily playing—at just 80 microamps current draw. You'll get extended use between replacements, making it practical for touring and studio sessions.
Is this pickup suitable for jazz or blues?
No; the EMG SA is optimized for rock, hard rock, and metal. Its upper-midrange emphasis and articulate character are designed for clarity and cut-through in those genres, not the warm, smooth tone blues and jazz players typically seek.
What's included in the package?
The set includes the EMG SA pickup, a 25k volume pot, dual 25k tone pots, a 5-way selector switch, and a complete wiring harness—everything needed for installation.
How does the active design reduce noise?
The active circuitry and -90 dBV output noise specification virtually eliminate 60-cycle hum and interference that plague passive single-coils, while the Alnico V magnet maintains responsive dynamics across pick attacks and bends.
Will this pickup work with my standard guitar wiring?
Yes; the 10 kΩ output impedance interfaces cleanly with standard guitar electronics, and the 0.6V RMS output (0.85V peak) delivers consistent signal without excessive compression to your amp or preamp.
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.
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