EMG SX/SX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG6496
Description
EMG SX/SX/81X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG SX/SX/81X configuration captures articulate single-coil clarity in the neck and middle positions paired with the aggressive bite of an 81X humbucker at the bridge. This three-pickup setup delivers responsive dynamics across the full tonal spectrum, maintaining output and definition through every recorded layer. The active circuitry ensures consistent signal integrity and sustain whether tracking clean passages or pushing saturation.
Recording & Mix Compatibility
The dual SX single coils excel at capturing articulation and snap for funk, pop, and clean session work, while the 81X bridge humbucker provides focused aggression for lead tracking and heavy rhythm parts. Active circuitry with low-impedance design eliminates mud and unwanted noise, yielding a tight, articulate response that sits cleanly in dense mixes across all three positions.
Technical Specifications
Both SX pickups operate on the EMG active standard with integrated preamp, while the 81X employs a ceramic magnet design optimized for definition and sustain. The set requires a 9V battery and standard wiring harness compatible with most guitar configurations; installation demands soldering and proper grounding for optimal performance.
Key Features
- Dual EMG SX active single-coil pickups in neck and middle positions
- 81X active humbucker with ceramic magnet at bridge
- Low-impedance active circuit design reduces noise and output impedance
- Consistent output levels across all three positions
- Enhanced sustain and harmonic clarity
- Fast transient response ideal for articulate playing styles
- Compatible with standard guitar wiring harnesses
- Requires 9V battery power
- Soldered connection installation
- Black cover finish
- Tight magnetic field for focused tone
- Factory-tested and ready to install
This pickup set delivers professional-grade active performance suitable for home studio tracking, multitrack production, and session work across multiple genres.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SX/SX/81X active set captures articulate single-coil definition in the neck and middle positions while the bridge 81X humbucker adds focused aggression and sustain for punchy lead layers and heavy rhythms. Active circuitry and low-impedance design eliminate noise and mud, keeping tracks tight and defined in the mix across multiple genres—ideal for pop, funk, and rock productions that demand clarity without sacrificing output. The consistent output levels across all three positions and fast transient response make tracking and re-amping straightforward in home and professional studios.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Pop
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What guitars is this pickup set compatible with?
The SX/SX/81X set uses a standard wiring harness compatible with most guitar configurations and requires soldering and proper grounding for installation. Confirm your guitar's routing and electronics cavity before purchasing to ensure proper fit.
Does this set require any special power or batteries?
Yes, the active circuitry requires a 9V battery to operate. The battery powers the integrated preamp in both the SX and 81X pickups for consistent signal integrity and low-impedance output.
What genres and playing styles is this set designed for?
The SX/SX/81X excels in funk, pop, and rock across studio and live settings. The dual single coils provide articulation for clean work and snap, while the 81X bridge delivers aggressive bite for leads and heavy rhythm—less suited to traditional jazz and folk applications.
How does the active design affect tone compared to passive pickups?
The active low-impedance circuit eliminates mud and unwanted noise while ensuring fast transient response and consistent output across all three positions. This yields a tight, articulate sound with enhanced sustain and harmonic clarity compared to passive alternatives.
Is soldering required to install these pickups?
Yes, installation requires soldering and proper grounding for optimal performance. The set includes a standard wiring harness, but professional installation is recommended if you lack soldering experience.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. On this item that is roughly $21 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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