Are the EMG SA pickups active or passive?

The EMG SA set consists of active pickups, meaning they require a 9V battery to power their internal preamps for higher output and lower noise.

What is the typical price for this set?

The EMG SA Single Coil Pickup Set in Ivory typically retails for approximately £219.

What magnet type is used in the EMG SA?

These pickups utilize Alnico V magnets, which are known for providing a warmer, more classic single-coil tone compared to ceramic alternatives.

Do these pickups eliminate hum?

Yes, the active design of the EMG SA set makes them virtually noiseless, eliminating the 60-cycle hum common in traditional single-coil pickups.

How does the neck pickup sound compared to the bridge?

The neck pickup offers a creamy texture ideal for emotive playing, while the bridge pickup is voiced for a brighter, more articulate and twangy sound.

Can I use these for high-gain music?

Absolutely. The EMG SA set is designed to handle high gain and distortion without losing clarity or becoming excessively noisy.

What colour is this specific set?

This specific model comes in an Ivory finish, providing a vintage look for the guitar.

Does this set include all three pickups?

Yes, the EMG SA set includes three matching single-coil pickups intended for the bridge, middle, and neck positions.

Will these fit a standard Stratocaster?

Yes, they are designed to fit standard single-coil pickup routes and pickguards, such as those found on Fender Stratocaster models.

How is the midrange response on the SA set?

The SA set features an enhanced midrange, which is specifically tuned to help notes pop out and soar through a live or recorded mix.

What is the main benefit of the active circuitry?

The primary benefits include a higher output level, virtually everlasting sustain, and a signal that is less susceptible to tone loss over long cables.

Does this set come with a battery?

While the pickups require a 9V battery for operation, the battery itself is usually sold separately or included as part of the installation kit rather than the pickup units themselves.

Gear article

EMG SA Single Coil Pickup Set Ivory

The EMG SA Single Coil Pickup Set is a trio of premium active pickups designed to deliver classic single-coil tonality with a significantly more prominent voice. Featuring high-output active circuitry, the set provides enhanced midrange and sustain while virtually eliminating the hum typical of traditional passive single-coils.

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Overview

The EMG SA Single Coil Pickup Set is a comprehensive electronics upgrade for Stratocaster-style electric guitars. Unlike traditional passive pickups, these active units require a 9-volt battery to power their internal preamps. This design allows for a 'mule kick' output level that far exceeds standard vintage pickups, offering players a more aggressive and responsive performance across various musical genres.

Sound and Character

The SA set is characterised by its ability to maintain clarity under heavy processing. Key tonal features include:

Enhanced Midrange: Helps lead lines 'pop' and cut through dense band mixes.
Increased Sustain: The active circuitry allows for longer-lasting notes compared to passive designs.
Tonal Range: The bridge pickup is voiced for bright, articulate twang, while the neck pickup provides a creamy, rich texture suitable for expressive solos.
Noise Reduction: As active pickups, they are virtually silent, eliminating the 60-cycle hum often found in single-coil configurations.

Versatility and Gain

While many single-coils struggle with high-gain settings due to noise and lack of punch, the EMG SA set is specifically designed to handle everything from 'crystal clear' cleans to 'crunchy and dirty' distortion. The high output ensures that even when loaded with gain, the pickups retain their articulation and do not become muddy, making them suitable for rock, metal, and fusion as well as traditional pop and blues.

Installation and Aesthetics

The set is finished in a classic Ivory housing, offering a vintage aesthetic that contrasts with the modern technology found inside. These pickups are standard single-coil size, making them compatible with most Stratocaster-style pickguards, such as the Fender 11-hole or contemporary patterns. They typically use EMG's solderless installation system, simplifying the wiring process for users looking to upgrade their current instrument.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to passive alternatives like the Fender American Standard Stratocaster components, the EMG SA set offers significantly more output and a flatter frequency response with less interference. While passive pickups are often praised for their organic 'dynamics,' the EMG SA provides a more consistent signal and better performance for players using long cable runs or complex pedalboards. Against other EMG models, the SA is noted for its use of Alnico V magnets, which provide a warmer, more 'vintage' feel than the ceramic-based EMG S series.

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Frequently asked questions

Are the EMG SA pickups active or passive?: The EMG SA set consists of active pickups, meaning they require a 9V battery to power their internal preamps for higher output and lower noise.
What is the typical price for this set?: The EMG SA Single Coil Pickup Set in Ivory typically retails for approximately £219.
What magnet type is used in the EMG SA?: These pickups utilize Alnico V magnets, which are known for providing a warmer, more classic single-coil tone compared to ceramic alternatives.
Do these pickups eliminate hum?: Yes, the active design of the EMG SA set makes them virtually noiseless, eliminating the 60-cycle hum common in traditional single-coil pickups.
How does the neck pickup sound compared to the bridge?: The neck pickup offers a creamy texture ideal for emotive playing, while the bridge pickup is voiced for a brighter, more articulate and twangy sound.
Can I use these for high-gain music?: Absolutely. The EMG SA set is designed to handle high gain and distortion without losing clarity or becoming excessively noisy.
What colour is this specific set?: This specific model comes in an Ivory finish, providing a vintage look for the guitar.
Does this set include all three pickups?: Yes, the EMG SA set includes three matching single-coil pickups intended for the bridge, middle, and neck positions.
Will these fit a standard Stratocaster?: Yes, they are designed to fit standard single-coil pickup routes and pickguards, such as those found on Fender Stratocaster models.
How is the midrange response on the SA set?: The SA set features an enhanced midrange, which is specifically tuned to help notes pop out and soar through a live or recorded mix.
What is the main benefit of the active circuitry?: The primary benefits include a higher output level, virtually everlasting sustain, and a signal that is less susceptible to tone loss over long cables.
Does this set come with a battery?: While the pickups require a 9V battery for operation, the battery itself is usually sold separately or included as part of the installation kit rather than the pickup units themselves.