EMG 81-8 Black

Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy

EMG 81-8 Black

EMG

81-8 Black

4.8 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 523272
Brand: EMG
Model: 81-8 Black
Price: $122.10

* 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

Behringer WING Compact Flyht Pro Bundle - Digital Mixers

Behringer WING Compact Flyht Pro Bundle

Digital Mixers

$2,748
4.8 Expert Rating
Harley Benton SpaceShip 80 Bundle - Guitar Effect Power Supplies

Harley Benton SpaceShip 80 Bundle

Guitar Effect Power Supplies

$219
4.8 Expert Rating
Ibanez GRG320FA-TVT - ST Style Guitars

Ibanez GRG320FA-TVT

ST Style Guitars

$439
Electric Guitar, Body: Poplar, Top: Basswood with Art Grain in flamed maple look, Bolt-on neck:...
4.5 Expert Rating
Line6 Pod GO Bundle - Guitar Multi Effects

Line6 Pod GO Bundle

Guitar Multi Effects

$614
4.6 Expert Rating
Applause Jump Dark Matter - Other Acoustic Guitars

Applause Jump Dark Matter

Other Acoustic Guitars

$362
Acoustic Guitar with Pickup, Type: OM with cutaway, Top: Solid European spruce, Back and...
4.5 Expert Rating
Kawai K-200 ATX 4 WDB Piano - Pianos

Kawai K-200 ATX 4 WDB Piano

Pianos

$9,119
Piano, With AnytimeX-4 equipment, Millennium III mechanics with ABS carbon parts of...
4.5 Expert Rating
Thomann Home Studio Bundle - Studio Packages

Thomann Home Studio Bundle

Studio Packages

$164
4.8 Expert Rating
Harley Benton SpaceShip 60 Bundle - Guitar Effect Power Supplies

Harley Benton SpaceShip 60 Bundle

Guitar Effect Power Supplies

$175
4.8 Expert Rating

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.

We use cookies to improve your experience. Learn more