EMG SA/SA/81 Active Strat Pickup Set

EMG SA/SA/81 Active Strat Pickup Set Back in the early 80's, adding a humbucker pickup to a Strat took off. Since then we've added just about every conceivable combination you can think of, and they're all available factory pre-wired. The EMG SA/SA/81 brings together the classic EMG 81 with two Alnico V loaded single coils for a combination that is aggressive in the bridge and smooth yet articulate in the middle and neck positions. Price: $279.00 Order Online Here UPC: 654330206030 SKU: 230600 Part No: 147.00

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Product Overview

The EMG SA/SA/81 Active Strat Pickup Set is a well-thought-out combination of pickups that captures the best of both worlds: the classic Stratocaster sound with modern enhancements. This set features the aggressive EMG 81 humbucker in the bridge position, paired with two Alnico V loaded single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions.

Key Features

• EMG 81 Humbucker: Known for its powerful output and clarity, the EMG 81 provides a rich, sustain-heavy tone ideal for rock and metal.
• Alnico V Single-Coils: The two single-coil pickups deliver smooth, articulate tones, perfect for a variety of musical styles.
• Active Electronics: The active design helps to reduce noise and hum, providing a pristine sound that stands out in any mix.
• Factory Pre-Wired: Simplifies installation, allowing you to quickly upgrade your Strat without extensive soldering knowledge.

Benefits

The EMG SA/SA/81 set combines versatility with ease of use. Musicians can switch between powerful, aggressive tones in the bridge position and warmer, smoother tones in the neck and middle positions. This makes it suitable for a range of genres, from rock to blues to jazz. The active pickups also offer a higher output, which is beneficial for driving amp gain and effects.

Potential Drawbacks

While the EMG SA/SA/81 set is impressive, there are potential downsides to consider:

• Battery Requirement: The active pickups require a 9V battery, which adds a maintenance aspect that passive pickups do not have.
• Sound Preference: Some traditionalists might prefer the sound of passive pickups, as active pickups can sometimes lack the organic character of their passive counterparts.

Comparison to Similar Products

When compared to other popular Strat pickup sets, such as the Seymour Duncan SSL-1 or Fender Custom Shop Fat '50s, the EMG SA/SA/81 stands out due to its active circuitry, which offers lower noise levels and higher output. However, the passive sets may appeal more to players seeking vintage tones and dynamics.

Practical Tips for Use

1. Experiment with Pickup Heights: Adjust the height of the pickups to find the sweet spot for your playing style and tone preferences.
2. Use with Distortion: The EMG 81 excels with distortion; try it with high-gain settings to achieve a thick, saturated sound.
3. Blend Tones: Use the middle position to combine the humbucker and single coils for unique tonal characteristics.

Complementary Products

Customers often pair the EMG SA/SA/81 set with:

• EMG PA-2 Preamp: This preamp can be used for additional boost, enhancing the active pickups' output for solos.
• EMG's EXG and SPC Control Knobs: These optional control knobs can expand tonal options by adding more treble or mid-boost.

Current Trends and Innovations

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards active pickups in the electric guitar market due to their ability to deliver consistent sound quality with minimal noise. The EMG SA/SA/81 fits perfectly within this trend by seamlessly blending classic Stratocaster tones with modern technology. This reflects a broader shift in the industry towards hybrid solutions that cater to both traditional and contemporary players.

Conclusion

The EMG SA/SA/81 Active Strat Pickup Set is a robust option for guitarists looking to enhance their Strat's versatility and performance. While it may not suit every player's preference, those who appreciate the benefits of active pickups will find this set to be a worthy investment.