What is the primary function of the EMG 81?

The EMG 81 is a high-output active humbucker designed to provide intense power and sharp high-end notes for electric guitars. It is most commonly used by rock and metal guitarists to enhance their instrument's overall voice and sustain.

What type of magnets are used in the EMG 81?

The pickup is loaded with super-powered ceramic magnets. These magnets contribute to the sharp high-end response and the aggressive, biting character that the model is famous for.

Which guitar position is best for the EMG 81?

It is described as being perfect for the bridge position. In this location, it captures the most treble-rich frequencies of the string, which complements the pickup's high-output and sharp voicing.

Does the EMG 81 require a battery?

Yes, as an active pickup, it requires a power source, typically a 9-volt battery, to operate its internal preamp. This allows it to achieve high output levels with very low noise compared to passive pickups.

What kind of sound can I expect from the EMG 81?

Users can expect a gigantic, immense sound with significant clarity in the high frequencies. It is designed to provide an exhilarating rock edge that remains defined even under heavy distortion.

What are 'close aperture' coils?

Close aperture coils are a design feature of the EMG 81 that focuses the magnetic field. This helps produce a tighter, more precise signal that is highly beneficial for fast, technical playing styles.

Is this pickup suitable for jazz or blues?

While it can be used for any genre, it is specifically vital for rock guitarists and those looking for intense power. Its bright, high-output nature is generally less suited for the warm, mellow tones typically associated with traditional jazz.

How does the EMG 81 handle high gain?

It is specifically built to excel with high gain. Its active circuitry reduces the hum and interference often encountered when using high-gain amplifiers, ensuring the signal remains clear and punchy.

What is the typical price for an EMG 81?

The typical price range for a new EMG 81 6-string humbucker is approximately £85. This makes it a mid-range investment for guitarists looking to upgrade their instrument's electronics.

Can the EMG 81 be paired with other pickups?

Yes, it is often paired with the EMG 85 or EMG 60 in the neck position. However, since it is an active pickup, it is most easily paired with other active components to avoid complex wiring or impedance issues.

Is the EMG 81 available for 7-string or 8-string guitars?

The standard EMG 81 is a 6-string humbucker pickup. While EMG makes variants for guitars with more strings, the specific 81 model described here is designed for standard 6-string electric guitars.

What is included in the 'Parts & spares' category for this item?

As a 'Parts & spares' item, the EMG 81 is sold as a standalone component for installation or replacement. It allows guitarists to customise their instrument's sound without purchasing a completely new guitar.

Gear article

EMG 81 Humbucker Pickup

The EMG 81 is a high-output active humbucking pickup designed primarily for the bridge position of electric guitars. Utilising ceramic magnets and close aperture coils, it is widely regarded as a benchmark for rock and heavy metal guitar tones due to its intense power and sharp high-end definition.

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Overview

The EMG 81 is a seminal component in the 'Parts & spares' category, specifically engineered to provide guitarists with a high-gain, low-noise signal. It is an active pickup, meaning it requires a battery (typically 9V) to power its internal preamp, which enables the use of low-impedance coils. This design results in a pickup that can drive long cable runs and effects chains without the high-frequency loss associated with traditional passive designs.

Design and Key Features

The construction of the EMG 81 is centred around powerful ceramic magnets and close aperture coils. These specifications are chosen to maximise output while maintaining clarity.

Ceramic Magnets: Provide a bright, aggressive attack that helps the guitar cut through dense mixes.
Close Aperture Coils: Designed to capture a specific window of string vibration, enhancing the 'tightness' of the sound.
Active Preamp: Integrated into the housing to reduce hum and noise while boosting the signal to 'super-powered' levels.

Sonic Character

The EMG 81 is known for its immense, gigantic sound, specifically tailored for the rock genre. Its tonal profile is characterised by a sharp high-end response and a focused low end, which prevents the 'muddy' sound often found in high-output passive pickups. The 'intense power' mentioned by the manufacturer translates to a high level of natural sustain and a consistent response that is essential for technical playing styles.

Application and Ideal User

This pickup is most effective when placed in the bridge position, where string tension is highest and the tone is naturally brightest. It suits musicians who require an exhilarating rock edge and those who play with high amounts of distortion or overdrive. Because it offers such consistent output, it is a staple for professional guitarists who need a reliable, high-performance voice for recording and live performances.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to other guitar components such as standard Fender Jazzmaster pickups or contemporary Jazz Bass hardware, the EMG 81 is a specialised tool for high-gain performance. While passive humbuckers might offer a more vintage, 'organic' feel, the 81 provides a level of clarity and power that is difficult to achieve without active electronics. It represents a significant upgrade for any guitar intended for modern rock or metal applications.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the EMG 81?: The EMG 81 is a high-output active humbucker designed to provide intense power and sharp high-end notes for electric guitars. It is most commonly used by rock and metal guitarists to enhance their instrument's overall voice and sustain.
What type of magnets are used in the EMG 81?: The pickup is loaded with super-powered ceramic magnets. These magnets contribute to the sharp high-end response and the aggressive, biting character that the model is famous for.
Which guitar position is best for the EMG 81?: It is described as being perfect for the bridge position. In this location, it captures the most treble-rich frequencies of the string, which complements the pickup's high-output and sharp voicing.
Does the EMG 81 require a battery?: Yes, as an active pickup, it requires a power source, typically a 9-volt battery, to operate its internal preamp. This allows it to achieve high output levels with very low noise compared to passive pickups.
What kind of sound can I expect from the EMG 81?: Users can expect a gigantic, immense sound with significant clarity in the high frequencies. It is designed to provide an exhilarating rock edge that remains defined even under heavy distortion.
What are 'close aperture' coils?: Close aperture coils are a design feature of the EMG 81 that focuses the magnetic field. This helps produce a tighter, more precise signal that is highly beneficial for fast, technical playing styles.
Is this pickup suitable for jazz or blues?: While it can be used for any genre, it is specifically vital for rock guitarists and those looking for intense power. Its bright, high-output nature is generally less suited for the warm, mellow tones typically associated with traditional jazz.
How does the EMG 81 handle high gain?: It is specifically built to excel with high gain. Its active circuitry reduces the hum and interference often encountered when using high-gain amplifiers, ensuring the signal remains clear and punchy.
What is the typical price for an EMG 81?: The typical price range for a new EMG 81 6-string humbucker is approximately £85. This makes it a mid-range investment for guitarists looking to upgrade their instrument's electronics.
Can the EMG 81 be paired with other pickups?: Yes, it is often paired with the EMG 85 or EMG 60 in the neck position. However, since it is an active pickup, it is most easily paired with other active components to avoid complex wiring or impedance issues.
Is the EMG 81 available for 7-string or 8-string guitars?: The standard EMG 81 is a 6-string humbucker pickup. While EMG makes variants for guitars with more strings, the specific 81 model described here is designed for standard 6-string electric guitars.
What is included in the 'Parts & spares' category for this item?: As a 'Parts & spares' item, the EMG 81 is sold as a standalone component for installation or replacement. It allows guitarists to customise their instrument's sound without purchasing a completely new guitar.