What is the EMG SL20?

The EMG SL20 is a pre-wired active pickup system mounted on a pickguard, designed as the signature set for guitarist Steve Lukather of Toto.

Which pickups are included in the SL20 set?

The set includes one EMG 85 humbucker for the bridge position and two SLV custom single-coil pickups for the middle and neck positions.

What makes the SLV pickups different from standard EMG single-coils?

The SLV pickups feature increased coil windings. This design provides a fuller, meatier tone that handles high-output rock playing better than standard low-wind single coils.

Does this system require a battery?

Yes, as these are active EMG pickups, they require a 9V battery to operate. The battery powers the internal preamps that provide the high output and low noise characteristics.

Is the SL20 pickguard difficult to install?

The system is designed for easy installation. It comes pre-wired to the pickguard with all controls already connected, allowing for a straightforward drop-in replacement.

What kind of sound is the EMG 85 known for in this set?

The EMG 85 is known for industry-leading clarity and a thick, powerful tone. In the bridge position of the SL20, it provides a robust lead voice for rock and fusion.

What is the typical price for the EMG SL20 in the UK?

The typical price range for this pre-wired pickup system is approximately GBP 228.

Is the pickguard included with the pickups?

Yes, the SL20 comes as a complete assembly with the pickups, pots, and switch already mounted to a black pickguard.

What genre of music is the SL20 best suited for?

While versatile, it is primarily designed for rock. The high output and clarity make it ideal for both stage performances and studio recording where diverse rock tones are needed.

Can the SL20 be used in a passive guitar?

Yes, but you must replace the entire electronics system with the provided active assembly and ensure there is space for a 9V battery in the control cavity.

Does the SL20 set eliminate 60-cycle hum?

Yes, because these are active pickups with internal shielding and preamps, they are virtually silent and free from the hum associated with traditional passive single-coils.

Are the controls pre-wired on the SL20?

Yes, the volume and tone controls are pre-wired. The set is designed to be fitted to the guitar immediately upon removal from the packaging.

Gear article

EMG Steve Lukather SL20 Pro Series Pickguard

The EMG SL20 is a pre-wired active pickup system designed for the signature sound of Toto guitarist Steve Lukather. It features a specific HSS configuration consisting of an EMG 85 humbucker and two SLV custom single-coil pickups, all integrated into a ready-to-install pickguard.

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Overview

The EMG SL20 Steve Lukather System is a high-performance electronics upgrade designed for Stratocaster-style guitars. As a 'Pro Series' assembly, the unit comes fully pre-wired to a black pickguard, including the master volume and tone controls, along with a five-way selector switch. This design aims to provide a professional-grade rock tone with the convenience of a solderless or minimal-solder installation process.

Pickup Components and Design

The system is defined by its unique blend of active pickups. The bridge position features the EMG 85 humbucker, a staple in the EMG catalogue known for its exceptional clarity and power. The middle and neck positions are occupied by SLV single-coil pickups. These are custom-designed for Steve Lukather, featuring increased coil windings compared to standard EMG models. This modification results in a 'meatier' tone that retains the classic single-coil snap but provides enough output to balance effectively with the bridge humbucker.

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Tonal Characteristics

The SL20 is engineered for a diverse range of rock sounds. The SLV single-coils offer a crystal-clear response that is well-suited for high-gain environments without the hum typically associated with passive single-coils. The EMG 85 in the bridge provides a muscular, full-bodied sound that excels in lead playing and heavy rhythm work. Collectively, the system is described as having an unmistakable rock character with high output and studio-quality definition.

Installation and Compatibility

One of the primary advantages of the SL20 is its ease of installation. Because the pickups, pots, and switch are pre-mounted and wired to the pickguard, users can replace their entire existing electronics suite in one step. It is typically designed to fit standard 11-hole Stratocaster mounting patterns, making it a popular choice for musicians looking to transform a standard instrument into a high-output rock machine without extensive luthier work.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the EMG SL20?: The EMG SL20 is a pre-wired active pickup system mounted on a pickguard, designed as the signature set for guitarist Steve Lukather of Toto.
Which pickups are included in the SL20 set?: The set includes one EMG 85 humbucker for the bridge position and two SLV custom single-coil pickups for the middle and neck positions.
What makes the SLV pickups different from standard EMG single-coils?: The SLV pickups feature increased coil windings. This design provides a fuller, meatier tone that handles high-output rock playing better than standard low-wind single coils.
Does this system require a battery?: Yes, as these are active EMG pickups, they require a 9V battery to operate. The battery powers the internal preamps that provide the high output and low noise characteristics.
Is the SL20 pickguard difficult to install?: The system is designed for easy installation. It comes pre-wired to the pickguard with all controls already connected, allowing for a straightforward drop-in replacement.
What kind of sound is the EMG 85 known for in this set?: The EMG 85 is known for industry-leading clarity and a thick, powerful tone. In the bridge position of the SL20, it provides a robust lead voice for rock and fusion.
What is the typical price for the EMG SL20 in the UK?: The typical price range for this pre-wired pickup system is approximately GBP 228.
Is the pickguard included with the pickups?: Yes, the SL20 comes as a complete assembly with the pickups, pots, and switch already mounted to a black pickguard.
What genre of music is the SL20 best suited for?: While versatile, it is primarily designed for rock. The high output and clarity make it ideal for both stage performances and studio recording where diverse rock tones are needed.
Can the SL20 be used in a passive guitar?: Yes, but you must replace the entire electronics system with the provided active assembly and ensure there is space for a 9V battery in the control cavity.
Does the SL20 set eliminate 60-cycle hum?: Yes, because these are active pickups with internal shielding and preamps, they are virtually silent and free from the hum associated with traditional passive single-coils.
Are the controls pre-wired on the SL20?: Yes, the volume and tone controls are pre-wired. The set is designed to be fitted to the guitar immediately upon removal from the packaging.