What pickups are included in the EMG KH21 set?

The set includes two EMG 81 active humbuckers, which are known for their high output and use of ceramic magnets.

Which artist is the KH21 associated with?

The KH21 is a signature Pro-Series system developed in collaboration with Kirk Hammett of Metallica.

What is the control layout of this pickguard?

The KH21 features two volume controls and one master tone control, allowing for precise adjustment of each humbucker.

Does this pickguard require soldering?

While the set is a 'loaded' Pro-Series system, it is designed for easier installation as the pickups and controls are pre-mounted and pre-wired to the guard.

What type of magnets are used in the KH21 pickups?

The EMG 81 pickups in this set use ceramic magnets to provide a detailed and intense tone.

What is the mounting hole pattern for the KH21?

The pickguard uses a standard 11-hole mounting pattern, which is typical for modern Stratocaster-style guitars.

What color is the KH21 pickguard?

The set features a white pearl pickguard paired with black knobs for a stylish aesthetic contrast.

Is the EMG KH21 an active or passive pickup system?

It is an active system, as the EMG 81 humbuckers require a battery (typically 9V) to operate the internal preamps.

What musical genres is this set best suited for?

Due to its high-end cut and fluid sustain, it is ideal for heavy metal, hard rock, and shredding solos.

How does the KH21 differ from a standard Stratocaster setup?

Standard Stratocasters usually have three single-coil pickups, whereas the KH21 features two high-output humbuckers and a different control configuration.

What is the typical price range for the EMG KH21?

The typical price for this loaded pickguard set is approximately £263.

What are close aperture coils?

These are specific coil designs used by EMG in the 81 model to produce a more detailed and focused tone with enhanced sustain.

Gear article

EMG KH21 Loaded Humbucker Pickguard Set

The EMG KH21 is a Pro-Series loaded pickguard system developed in collaboration with Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett. It features a pair of EMG 81 active humbuckers mounted on a white pearl pickguard, designed to deliver high-output tones suitable for heavy metal and lead guitar performance.

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Overview

The EMG KH21 is a pre-wired replacement pickguard designed to drop into standard Stratocaster-style guitar bodies. As a signature component for Kirk Hammett, it streamlines the process of upgrading a guitar to his specific technical specifications. The unit arrives fully assembled with pickups, pots, and a selector switch already mounted to the pickguard, reducing the soldering and assembly time required for a pickup swap.

Design and Key Features

The core of the KH21 system is the dual EMG 81 humbucker configuration. These pickups utilise ceramic magnets and close aperture coils, which are engineered for high-output performance and clarity.

Features include: * Pro-Series Wiring: A pre-wired assembly that ensures consistent signal path quality. * Control Configuration: Unlike standard Stratocasters that typically use one volume and two tones, the KH21 employs two volume controls and a master tone for more precise blending of the dual humbuckers. * Aesthetics: The set features an 11-hole white pearl pickguard contrasted by black control knobs, providing a distinct visual identity.

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Sound Character

The KH21 is characterised by a detailed and intense guitar tone, largely defined by the EMG 81's reputation for high-end cut and fluid sustain. The ceramic magnets provide a sharp attack that helps the guitar cut through dense mixes, particularly during shredding solos or heavy riffs. The close aperture coils are designed to maintain note definition even under high levels of distortion or gain.

Target Audience

This loaded pickguard is primarily aimed at fans of Kirk Hammett and Metallica who wish to replicate his signature sound. However, its high-output nature also makes it a top contender for any guitarist involved in heavy metal, hard rock, or technical shredding who requires a noise-free, active pickup system with significant sustain.

Comparison and Compatibility

While EMG offers various standalone pickups, the KH21 provides a complete 'system' approach compared to buying individual EMG 81 units. Unlike traditional passive alternatives, such as the Fender American Standard Stratocaster Tremolo components which are designed for vintage-style bridge systems, the KH21 focuses purely on modern active electronics. The 11-hole mounting pattern is standard for modern Stratocaster models, though players with older or 10-hole designs (similar to those seen on contemporary Jazz Bass guards) should check for alignment before installation.

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Frequently asked questions

What pickups are included in the EMG KH21 set?: The set includes two EMG 81 active humbuckers, which are known for their high output and use of ceramic magnets.
Which artist is the KH21 associated with?: The KH21 is a signature Pro-Series system developed in collaboration with Kirk Hammett of Metallica.
What is the control layout of this pickguard?: The KH21 features two volume controls and one master tone control, allowing for precise adjustment of each humbucker.
Does this pickguard require soldering?: While the set is a 'loaded' Pro-Series system, it is designed for easier installation as the pickups and controls are pre-mounted and pre-wired to the guard.
What type of magnets are used in the KH21 pickups?: The EMG 81 pickups in this set use ceramic magnets to provide a detailed and intense tone.
What is the mounting hole pattern for the KH21?: The pickguard uses a standard 11-hole mounting pattern, which is typical for modern Stratocaster-style guitars.
What color is the KH21 pickguard?: The set features a white pearl pickguard paired with black knobs for a stylish aesthetic contrast.
Is the EMG KH21 an active or passive pickup system?: It is an active system, as the EMG 81 humbuckers require a battery (typically 9V) to operate the internal preamps.
What musical genres is this set best suited for?: Due to its high-end cut and fluid sustain, it is ideal for heavy metal, hard rock, and shredding solos.
How does the KH21 differ from a standard Stratocaster setup?: Standard Stratocasters usually have three single-coil pickups, whereas the KH21 features two high-output humbuckers and a different control configuration.
What is the typical price range for the EMG KH21?: The typical price for this loaded pickguard set is approximately £263.
What are close aperture coils?: These are specific coil designs used by EMG in the 81 model to produce a more detailed and focused tone with enhanced sustain.