EMG SA/SA/81 Black
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
EMG
SA/SA/81 Black
Product Info
Article Number:
155859
Brand:
EMG
Model:
SA/SA/81 Black
Category:
Single Coil Pickups
Price:
$251.90
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
This EMG SA/SA/81 set is a fantastic choice for players wanting a blend of classic single-coil chime and aggressive humbucker power. It's a great upgrade for guitars where you want versatility – from clean, glassy tones to searing leads – and the solderless system makes it surprisingly accessible for DIY installs. Ideal for players who want a modern edge without losing that vintage warmth.
Product Description
- EMG SA/SA/81 Black
- Active pickup set for electric guitar
- 2 x Model SA single coils in neck and center position
- 1 x Model 81 bridge humbucker
- Output: High
- Classic EMG 81 humbucker in combination with two Alnico V single coils
- Aggressive bridge pickups and silky-articulated neck and middle single coils
- Solderless system
- Magnetic material: AlNiCo 5
- Cap colour: Black
- Made in USA
*Includes EMG-exclusive Solderless System:*
- 1 x 25k Volume potentiometer
- 2 x 25k Tone potentiometer
- 1 x Battery bus
- 1 x Stereo output jack
- 1 x Input / output bus
- 1 x Pickup cable
- 2 x Connection cable
- 1 x Output cable
- 1 x Battery cable
- Mounting screws and springs
PROS
- • AlNiCo 5 magnets deliver a warm, articulate vintage tone.
- • The 81 bridge pickup provides aggressive high-output for modern styles.
- • Solderless system simplifies installation, a real boon for many players.
- • Combination of single coils and humbucker offers tonal flexibility.
CONS
- • The active circuitry demands a battery, adding to maintenance.
- • The high output of the 81 may clash with some amp setups.
- • The AlNiCo 5 magnets might lack the extreme bite of ceramic.
Product Video
Key Features
Position
Neck, Middle, Bridge
Magnet
AlNiCo 5
Output Level
High
DC Resistance
Neck: 3.8kΩ, Middle: 3.6kΩ, Bridge: 16kΩ
Mounting
Solderless
Cover
Black
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Frequently Asked Questions
The SA pickups offer a similar clarity and articulation to traditional Strat single coils, but with a noticeably more robust and focused tone thanks to the active circuitry and AlNiCo 5 magnets.
Yes, it will, but be mindful of the 81’s higher output – you may need to dial back the gain to avoid muddiness; it's a powerful set.
It's significantly easier than soldering, but you'll still need a screwdriver and basic wiring knowledge to connect the cables – no soldering iron required.
