EMG 81-8 Black
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
EMG
81-8 Black
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
This is EMG's answer to the 8-string demand – a beefed-up 81 sound. It’s a powerhouse pickup, perfect for modern metal, djent, and anything that needs serious low-end chunk and aggressive high-end sizzle. If you're rocking an 8-string and want that classic EMG growl without modifying your guitar too much, this is a solid choice.
Product Description
- EMG 81-8 Black
- Active humbucker for 8-string guitars
- Classic EMG 81 sound in an 8-string soapbar cabinet
- Dimensions: 38 x 89 mm
- Colour: Black
- Incl. Quik-Connect cable
- volume/sound
- knob set with knurled shaft
- output jack
- battery clip
- screws & springs
PROS
- • Delivers the iconic 81 aggression, tailored for the extended range of 8-string guitars.
- • The soapbar design provides a tighter, more focused low-end response compared to standard 81s.
- • Included Quick-Connect cable simplifies installation, a real time-saver for most players.
- • The included knobs and jack offer a complete, ready-to-install package; a nice touch.
CONS
- • Active circuitry demands battery power, adding a potential maintenance consideration.
- • The aggressive output can be overwhelming for players seeking a more nuanced, vintage tone.
- • The fixed nature of the EMG 81-8 limits tonal flexibility compared to coil-splitting options.
Product Video
Key Features
Type
Active Humbucker
Position
Bridge (typically, but adaptable)
Magnet
Alnico V
Output Level
High
DC Resistance
17.5kΩ (approximate, varies slightly by production run)
Mounting
4-Hole
Similar Products
Ibanez GRG320FA-TVT
ST Style Guitars
$439
Electric Guitar, Body: Poplar, Top: Basswood with Art Grain in flamed maple look, Bolt-on neck:...
Applause Jump Dark Matter
Other Acoustic Guitars
$362
Acoustic Guitar with Pickup, Type: OM with cutaway, Top: Solid European spruce, Back and...
Kawai K-200 ATX 4 WDB Piano
Pianos
$9,119
Piano, With AnytimeX-4 equipment, Millennium III mechanics with ABS carbon parts of...
Frequently Asked Questions
The soapbar housing concentrates the magnetic field, resulting in a tighter low-end and slightly more focused high-end compared to the standard 81's more open sound.
The Quick-Connect is excellent for quick swaps and DIY installs, but a soldered connection will always provide the most reliable and noise-free signal.
It's generally compatible, but you may need to adjust your preamp's gain to prevent clipping or an overly harsh sound. Experimentation is key.
