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 rock and metal guitarists. It is most commonly used in the bridge position to maximize its aggressive tonal characteristics.

What type of magnets are used in the EMG 81?

The pickup is loaded with super-powered ceramic magnets. These magnets contribute to the pickup's signature sharp attack and powerful output, which are essential for high-gain musical styles.

Does the EMG 81 require a battery?

Yes, as an active pickup, the EMG 81 requires a power source, typically a 9V battery, to operate its internal preamp. This allows for high output with low noise and consistent tone regardless of cable length.

In which guitar position is the EMG 81 best suited?

The manufacturer recommends the EMG 81 for the bridge position. Its voicing is specifically designed to provide the bite and clarity needed for lead playing and rhythm crunch.

What is the typical price range for this pickup?

The EMG 81 Chrome edition typically retails for approximately £99.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current market conditions.

How does the Chrome finish affect the pickup?

The Chrome finish is purely aesthetic, providing a sleek, metallic look that matches other chrome hardware like the Gotoh 203B-4 bridge. It does not alter the fundamental electronic specifications of the 81 model.

What are 'close aperture coils'?

Close aperture coils are a design feature of the EMG 81 that helps produce a more focused and detailed sound. This contributes to the 'gigantic immense sound' described by the manufacturer.

Can the EMG 81 be used for genres other than rock?

While it is marketed as vital for rock and essential for injecting a rock edge, its clarity makes it useful for any genre requiring a high-output, low-noise signal. However, it is most popular in heavy metal and hard rock.

What is the benefit of using an active pickup like the 81?

Active pickups offer higher output levels and reduced hum compared to many passive designs. This makes them ideal for players using high-gain amplifiers or extensive effects chains.

Is the EMG 81 compatible with standard 6-string guitars?

Yes, the EMG 81 is designed as a 6-string humbucker pickup. It fits into standard humbucker routing found on most modern electric guitars.

How does the 81 help with lead guitar playing?

The pickup provides sharp high-end notes and fluid sustain. This ensures that individual notes in a solo remain distinct and powerful even when using heavy distortion.

Is the mounting hardware included with the pickup?

While specific accessories can vary by package, the pickup is part of the EMG ecosystem which often utilizes a solderless installation system. Users may also need to purchase compatible knobs, such as Fender Stratocaster Knobs, if they are performing a full guitar aesthetic overhaul.

Gear article

EMG 81 Humbucker Pickup (Chrome)

The EMG 81 is a high-output active humbucking pickup designed specifically for lead guitar and high-gain applications. It is renowned for its intense power and sharp high-end response, making it a foundational component in modern rock and metal guitar setups.

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Overview

The EMG 81 is one of the most recognisable active pickups in the music industry. Specifically engineered for the bridge position, this six-string humbucker is built to deliver high-volume output with exceptional clarity. The Chrome version provides a polished aesthetic finish, allowing the pickup to integrate seamlessly with standard guitar hardware such as the Gotoh 203B-4 Bass Bridge or the Fender American Standard Stratocaster Tremolo Bridge.

Technical Design and Features

The internal architecture of the EMG 81 features powerful ceramic magnets paired with close aperture coils. This combination is designed to produce a detailed intensity and an incredible amount of high-end cut. Because it is an active pickup, it requires an internal power source (typically a 9V battery) to operate its integrated preamp, which ensures a consistent signal even through long cable runs or complex pedalboards.

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Sound Character

The sonic profile of the 81 is defined by its 'immense sound' and 'sharp high end.' It is voiced to provide a sharp attack and fluid sustain, which is vital for rock guitarists who require their leads to cut through a dense mix. Unlike traditional passive pickups, the 81 maintains its clarity and punch even under extreme levels of distortion, preventing the low end from becoming 'muddy'.

Applications and Suitability

This pickup is primarily suited for musicians looking to 'ramp up' their guitar's overall voice with an 'exhilarating rock edge.' While it is versatile enough for various genres, it is considered essential for rock and heavy metal where high-gain performance is required. It is frequently installed as an upgrade to stock pickups in solid-body electric guitars.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to passive options, the EMG 81 offers a higher output and a more compressed, focused frequency response. While passive components like the Fender Jazzmaster Pickup Covers or Stratocaster Knobs focus on traditional aesthetics and vintage tones, the EMG 81 is a modern performance tool focused on power. It is often paired with other EMG models, such as the EMG 85, to provide a balanced tonal palette between the bridge and neck positions.

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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 rock and metal guitarists. It is most commonly used in the bridge position to maximize its aggressive tonal characteristics.
What type of magnets are used in the EMG 81?: The pickup is loaded with super-powered ceramic magnets. These magnets contribute to the pickup's signature sharp attack and powerful output, which are essential for high-gain musical styles.
Does the EMG 81 require a battery?: Yes, as an active pickup, the EMG 81 requires a power source, typically a 9V battery, to operate its internal preamp. This allows for high output with low noise and consistent tone regardless of cable length.
In which guitar position is the EMG 81 best suited?: The manufacturer recommends the EMG 81 for the bridge position. Its voicing is specifically designed to provide the bite and clarity needed for lead playing and rhythm crunch.
What is the typical price range for this pickup?: The EMG 81 Chrome edition typically retails for approximately £99.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current market conditions.
How does the Chrome finish affect the pickup?: The Chrome finish is purely aesthetic, providing a sleek, metallic look that matches other chrome hardware like the Gotoh 203B-4 bridge. It does not alter the fundamental electronic specifications of the 81 model.
What are 'close aperture coils'?: Close aperture coils are a design feature of the EMG 81 that helps produce a more focused and detailed sound. This contributes to the 'gigantic immense sound' described by the manufacturer.
Can the EMG 81 be used for genres other than rock?: While it is marketed as vital for rock and essential for injecting a rock edge, its clarity makes it useful for any genre requiring a high-output, low-noise signal. However, it is most popular in heavy metal and hard rock.
What is the benefit of using an active pickup like the 81?: Active pickups offer higher output levels and reduced hum compared to many passive designs. This makes them ideal for players using high-gain amplifiers or extensive effects chains.
Is the EMG 81 compatible with standard 6-string guitars?: Yes, the EMG 81 is designed as a 6-string humbucker pickup. It fits into standard humbucker routing found on most modern electric guitars.
How does the 81 help with lead guitar playing?: The pickup provides sharp high-end notes and fluid sustain. This ensures that individual notes in a solo remain distinct and powerful even when using heavy distortion.
Is the mounting hardware included with the pickup?: While specific accessories can vary by package, the pickup is part of the EMG ecosystem which often utilizes a solderless installation system. Users may also need to purchase compatible knobs, such as Fender Stratocaster Knobs, if they are performing a full guitar aesthetic overhaul.