EMG Active Pickups Australia - 81/85, Signature Sets & More
EMG Pickups Australia - Active Guitar Pickups for Metal & High Gain
Quick Answer
EMG active pickups deliver high output, low noise, and consistent tone for metal and hard rock. Most popular: EMG 81 (bridge - aggressive, tight bass) and EMG 85 (neck - thick, warm). Active design requires 9V battery but eliminates hum and provides maximum clarity at high gain. Perfect for metal, hard rock, and shred. In stock at Angkor Music Melbourne with professional installation available ($80-160). Call (03) 8360 7799 for pickup recommendations and installation quotes.
EMG active pickups have defined the sound of modern metal for over 40 years. From Metallica to Zakk Wylde, countless metal legends choose EMG for maximum output, zero noise, and unmatched clarity at extreme gain levels.
High Output
Maximum gain without noise
Zero Hum
Silent operation, no interference
Consistent Tone
Same sound in every guitar
Easy Install
Solderless system available
What Are EMG Active Pickups?
EMG pickups are active pickups, meaning they use a preamp powered by a 9V battery to boost the signal before it leaves the guitar. This design provides several advantages over traditional passive pickups, particularly for high-gain playing styles like metal and hard rock.
Advantages of EMG Active Pickups
- High Output: Maximum signal strength drives amps harder
- Zero Noise: No 60-cycle hum, dead silent when not playing
- Consistent Tone: Less affected by guitar wood, more predictable
- Tight Bass: Focused low-end perfect for palm muting
- Extended Highs: Clarity and definition at extreme gain
- Long Cable Runs: No tone loss with long cables
- Low Impedance: Works better with effects pedals
Considerations
- Battery Required: 9V battery needs replacing (1500+ hours life)
- Different Character: Less "organic" than passive pickups
- Not for Everyone: Better for high gain than clean/blues
- Installation Cost: Requires routing for battery compartment (if not present)
- Less Dynamic: Compressed sound compared to passive
Bottom line: If you play metal, hard rock, or high-gain music, EMG pickups are probably perfect. If you play blues, jazz, or clean tones primarily, passive pickups may suit you better.
Most Popular EMG Pickup Models
EMG offers dozens of pickup models, but these are the most popular and widely used by professional metal and rock guitarists worldwide. We stock all of these models at Angkor Music.
EMG 81 - The Metal Standard (Bridge Position)
The EMG 81 is the most popular active pickup in the world and the standard for modern metal. Aggressive, tight, and articulate with incredible note definition even under massive distortion.
Tone Characteristics:
- Extremely tight bass response (perfect for palm muting)
- Aggressive, cutting midrange
- Extended high-end clarity
- Compressed, focused attack
- Ceramic magnet for maximum output
Best For:
Metal, thrash, death metal, metalcore, hard rock, shred. Bridge position primarily, though some players use it in neck position too.
Famous Users:
- James Hetfield (Metallica)
- Kirk Hammett (Metallica)
- Zakk Wylde
- Kerry King (Slayer)
- Alexi Laiho
- Gary Holt (Exodus/Slayer)
Most Popular Pickup
In stock now
EMG 85 - Warm & Thick (Neck Position)
The EMG 85 is the perfect complement to the 81, offering a warmer, thicker tone ideal for neck position. Fuller lows and smoother highs make it great for lead playing and rhythm.
Tone Characteristics:
- Fuller, fatter bass response than 81
- Smooth, warm midrange
- Slightly subdued highs (less harsh)
- Thicker overall tone
- Alnico magnet (warmer than ceramic)
Best For:
Neck position primarily (though some use in bridge). Great for lead guitar, solos, and rhythm playing when you want more warmth than the 81 provides.
Famous Users:
- Zakk Wylde (neck position)
- Alexi Laiho
- Many Metallica players
- Used by countless metal bands
Classic 81/85 Set
Most popular combination
EMG 81/85 Set - The Metal Standard Combination
The EMG 81/85 set is the most popular active pickup combination in metal history. EMG 81 in bridge for aggressive rhythm and tight palm muting, EMG 85 in neck for thick leads and warmer rhythm tones. This is the combination used by Metallica, Zakk Wylde, Slayer, and thousands of metal bands worldwide. If you're unsure which EMG pickups to get, start here.
EMG 60 - Vintage-Style Active (Neck Position)
The EMG 60 offers a more vintage-style tone than the 85, with smoother response and more dynamic sensitivity. Good choice for players who want active pickup benefits with more "organic" feel.
- Smoother, more rounded tone than 85
- Better for clean tones
- More dynamic response
- Alnico magnets
- Popular in 81/60 set combination
EMG 57/66 Set - Modern Metal Alternative
The EMG 57/66 set is a newer design offering similar characteristics to the classic 81/85 but with slightly more open tone and less compression. Popular with modern metal players seeking more dynamic response.
- 57 in bridge - aggressive but more open than 81
- 66 in neck - thick and warm like 85 but less compressed
- More dynamic response than 81/85
- Better for players who want active benefits with more "feel"
EMG Signature Pickup Sets
Zakk Wylde EMG Set
EMG 81/85 set with custom black chrome caps. Zakk's personal choice for decades. Same pickups as standard 81/85 but with distinctive black finish.
Het Set (Hetfield)
James Hetfield's signature set includes EMG JH (bridge) and EMG 60 (neck). Designed specifically for aggressive rhythm and tight palm muting with more vintage-style neck tone.
Kirk Hammett Set
EMG Bone Breaker set with custom voicing for lead playing. Higher output than standard 81/85 with enhanced midrange for solos.
Kerry King Set
Slayer guitarist's signature set featuring dual EMG 81s (bridge and neck). Maximum aggression in both positions for brutal rhythm and lead tones.
How to Choose EMG Pickups for Your Guitar
Quick Selection Guide
If you play metal, thrash, or hard rock:
EMG 81/85 Set - Bridge 81 for tight rhythm, Neck 85 for thick leads. This is the standard. Can't go wrong. Most popular choice for metal worldwide.
If you want modern metal with more dynamics:
EMG 57/66 Set - Similar to 81/85 but less compressed, more open. Better "feel" under your fingers while maintaining active pickup benefits.
If you play clean and lead more than rhythm:
EMG 81/60 Set - Bridge 81 for when you need aggression, Neck 60 for smoother, more vintage-style lead tones and cleaner passages.
If you're Zakk Wylde fan or want his tone:
Zakk Wylde EMG Set - Same as 81/85 but with black chrome caps. Get the exact pickups Zakk uses in his guitars.
If you want maximum brutality in both positions:
Dual EMG 81s (Kerry King style) - 81 in both bridge and neck. Extreme aggression everywhere. Only do this if you rarely play clean or want pure brutality.
EMG Pickup Installation Service
We offer professional EMG pickup installation at Angkor Music Melbourne. EMG pickups can be installed using either traditional soldering or EMG's solderless wiring system (included with most EMG sets).
What's Included in Installation
- Remove old pickups
- Install EMG pickups (bridge and/or neck)
- Route battery compartment (if needed - additional cost)
- Connect EMG solderless wiring system
- Test all positions and electronics
- Setup included (if requested)
Installation Pricing
Single Pickup: $80
Pickup Set (Bridge + Neck): $140
Full HSS/SSS Set: $180
Battery Box Routing: From $50 (if not present)
Note: Most modern guitars have battery compartments already. If yours doesn't, we can route one professionally. Call for quote.
Professional Installation Recommended: While EMG's solderless system is designed for DIY installation, we recommend professional installation to ensure proper grounding, secure connections, and optimal performance. Incorrectly installed pickups can hum, cut out, or fail completely.
EMG Active Pickups vs Passive Pickups
Understanding the difference between active (EMG) and passive pickups helps you make the right choice for your playing style.
| Feature | EMG Active | Passive (Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio) |
|---|---|---|
| Output Level | Very high, consistent | Varies by model |
| Noise/Hum | Zero hum, dead silent | Some hum (especially single coils) |
| Battery Required | Yes (9V, 1500+ hours) | No |
| Tone Character | Tight, focused, compressed | More dynamic, organic |
| Best For | Metal, hard rock, high gain | All styles, especially blues/clean |
| Clean Tones | Good but compressed | More dynamic range |
| Installation | Solderless option available | Soldering required |
| Price Range | $190-280 per pickup | $190-350 per pickup |
EMG Pickups FAQs
Do EMG pickups really sound different than passive pickups?
Yes, significantly. EMG active pickups sound tighter, more focused, and more compressed than passive pickups. The bass response is tighter (better for palm muting), the mids are more aggressive, and the highs are extended and clear. They excel at high-gain metal tones but sound less dynamic and organic for clean playing compared to passive pickups. If you play metal or hard rock primarily, EMGs are ideal. If you play blues, jazz, or clean tones mostly, passive pickups are usually better.
How long do EMG batteries last?
EMG pickups use standard 9V batteries that typically last 1,500-3,000 hours of playing time. For most players, this means 1-2 years before replacement. The battery only drains when a cable is plugged into the output jack, so unplugging when not playing extends battery life. Many players keep a spare 9V battery in their case. When the battery dies, your guitar simply goes silent - it won't damage anything. Cost: $2-5 per battery replacement.
What's the difference between EMG 81 and 85?
EMG 81: Uses ceramic magnets, tighter bass, more aggressive mids, extended highs. Best in bridge position for rhythm playing and palm muting. More focused and cutting.
EMG 85: Uses alnico magnets, fuller bass, warmer mids, smoother highs. Best in neck position for lead playing and solos. Thicker and warmer overall.
Most metal players use 81 in bridge and 85 in neck for the best of both worlds. Some players (Kerry King) use dual 81s for maximum aggression everywhere.
Can I install EMG pickups in any guitar?
Yes, EMG pickups fit in standard humbucker routes and can be installed in virtually any guitar. The main requirement is space for a 9V battery compartment. Most modern guitars (especially those with active electronics or locking tremolos) already have battery compartments. If your guitar doesn't have one, we can route a compartment professionally (typically $50-120 additional). EMG also offers mounting rings and pickup covers in various colors to match your guitar. Installation from $120-160 at Angkor Music Melbourne.
Are EMG pickups good for clean tones?
EMG pickups can produce clean tones, but they're not as dynamic and touch-sensitive as high-quality passive pickups. The clean sound is somewhat compressed and less organic. If you play clean tones 50% or more of the time, passive pickups (Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio) may suit you better. However, if you play metal or high-gain music primarily and need clean tones occasionally, EMG cleans are perfectly usable - just different in character. Models like the EMG 60 and 57/66 set offer better clean response than the standard 81/85.
What's the solderless wiring system?
EMG includes a solderless wiring system with most pickup sets. This system uses push-fit connectors that snap together without soldering, making installation easier and faster. The system includes color-coded cables that connect pickups to pots, switches, and output jack. While designed for DIY installation, we still recommend professional installation to ensure proper grounding and avoid common mistakes. The solderless system is reliable when installed correctly but can cause intermittent issues if connections aren't fully seated.
Which famous metal bands use EMG pickups?
Metallica (James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett), Slayer (Kerry King, Gary Holt), Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society, Ozzy), Children of Bodom (Alexi Laiho), Exodus (Gary Holt), Testament, Death Angel, Lamb of God, and thousands of other metal bands worldwide. EMG pickups have been the standard for thrash, death metal, and metalcore for decades. If you hear tight, aggressive, high-gain metal tone, there's a very good chance it's EMG 81/85.
Shop EMG Pickups at Angkor Music Melbourne
We stock EMG 81, 85, 60, 57/66 sets, signature pickups, and all major EMG models. Professional installation available. Call for pricing, advice, and installation quotes.
Angkor Music Melbourne - EMG Authorized Dealer
4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018
In Stock Now - Professional Installation Available
EMG Pickups Australia - Active Guitar Pickups for Metal & High Gain
Quick Answer
EMG active pickups deliver high output, low noise, and consistent tone for metal and hard rock. Most popular: EMG 81 (bridge - aggressive, tight bass) and EMG 85 (neck - thick, warm). Active design requires 9V battery but eliminates hum and provides maximum clarity at high gain. Perfect for metal, hard rock, and shred. In stock at Angkor Music Melbourne with professional installation available ($80-160). Call (03) 8360 7799 for pickup recommendations and installation quotes.
EMG active pickups have defined the sound of modern metal for over 40 years. From Metallica to Zakk Wylde, countless metal legends choose EMG for maximum output, zero noise, and unmatched clarity at extreme gain levels.
High Output
Maximum gain without noise
Zero Hum
Silent operation, no interference
Consistent Tone
Same sound in every guitar
Easy Install
Solderless system available
What Are EMG Active Pickups?
EMG pickups are active pickups, meaning they use a preamp powered by a 9V battery to boost the signal before it leaves the guitar. This design provides several advantages over traditional passive pickups, particularly for high-gain playing styles like metal and hard rock.
Advantages of EMG Active Pickups
- High Output: Maximum signal strength drives amps harder
- Zero Noise: No 60-cycle hum, dead silent when not playing
- Consistent Tone: Less affected by guitar wood, more predictable
- Tight Bass: Focused low-end perfect for palm muting
- Extended Highs: Clarity and definition at extreme gain
- Long Cable Runs: No tone loss with long cables
- Low Impedance: Works better with effects pedals
Considerations
- Battery Required: 9V battery needs replacing (1500+ hours life)
- Different Character: Less "organic" than passive pickups
- Not for Everyone: Better for high gain than clean/blues
- Installation Cost: Requires routing for battery compartment (if not present)
- Less Dynamic: Compressed sound compared to passive
Bottom line: If you play metal, hard rock, or high-gain music, EMG pickups are probably perfect. If you play blues, jazz, or clean tones primarily, passive pickups may suit you better.
Most Popular EMG Pickup Models
EMG offers dozens of pickup models, but these are the most popular and widely used by professional metal and rock guitarists worldwide. We stock all of these models at Angkor Music.
EMG 81 - The Metal Standard (Bridge Position)
The EMG 81 is the most popular active pickup in the world and the standard for modern metal. Aggressive, tight, and articulate with incredible note definition even under massive distortion.
Tone Characteristics:
- Extremely tight bass response (perfect for palm muting)
- Aggressive, cutting midrange
- Extended high-end clarity
- Compressed, focused attack
- Ceramic magnet for maximum output
Best For:
Metal, thrash, death metal, metalcore, hard rock, shred. Bridge position primarily, though some players use it in neck position too.
Famous Users:
- James Hetfield (Metallica)
- Kirk Hammett (Metallica)
- Zakk Wylde
- Kerry King (Slayer)
- Alexi Laiho
- Gary Holt (Exodus/Slayer)
Most Popular Pickup
In stock now
EMG 85 - Warm & Thick (Neck Position)
The EMG 85 is the perfect complement to the 81, offering a warmer, thicker tone ideal for neck position. Fuller lows and smoother highs make it great for lead playing and rhythm.
Tone Characteristics:
- Fuller, fatter bass response than 81
- Smooth, warm midrange
- Slightly subdued highs (less harsh)
- Thicker overall tone
- Alnico magnet (warmer than ceramic)
Best For:
Neck position primarily (though some use in bridge). Great for lead guitar, solos, and rhythm playing when you want more warmth than the 81 provides.
Famous Users:
- Zakk Wylde (neck position)
- Alexi Laiho
- Many Metallica players
- Used by countless metal bands
Classic 81/85 Set
Most popular combination
EMG 81/85 Set - The Metal Standard Combination
The EMG 81/85 set is the most popular active pickup combination in metal history. EMG 81 in bridge for aggressive rhythm and tight palm muting, EMG 85 in neck for thick leads and warmer rhythm tones. This is the combination used by Metallica, Zakk Wylde, Slayer, and thousands of metal bands worldwide. If you're unsure which EMG pickups to get, start here.
EMG 60 - Vintage-Style Active (Neck Position)
The EMG 60 offers a more vintage-style tone than the 85, with smoother response and more dynamic sensitivity. Good choice for players who want active pickup benefits with more "organic" feel.
- Smoother, more rounded tone than 85
- Better for clean tones
- More dynamic response
- Alnico magnets
- Popular in 81/60 set combination
EMG 57/66 Set - Modern Metal Alternative
The EMG 57/66 set is a newer design offering similar characteristics to the classic 81/85 but with slightly more open tone and less compression. Popular with modern metal players seeking more dynamic response.
- 57 in bridge - aggressive but more open than 81
- 66 in neck - thick and warm like 85 but less compressed
- More dynamic response than 81/85
- Better for players who want active benefits with more "feel"
EMG Signature Pickup Sets
Zakk Wylde EMG Set
EMG 81/85 set with custom black chrome caps. Zakk's personal choice for decades. Same pickups as standard 81/85 but with distinctive black finish.
Het Set (Hetfield)
James Hetfield's signature set includes EMG JH (bridge) and EMG 60 (neck). Designed specifically for aggressive rhythm and tight palm muting with more vintage-style neck tone.
Kirk Hammett Set
EMG Bone Breaker set with custom voicing for lead playing. Higher output than standard 81/85 with enhanced midrange for solos.
Kerry King Set
Slayer guitarist's signature set featuring dual EMG 81s (bridge and neck). Maximum aggression in both positions for brutal rhythm and lead tones.
How to Choose EMG Pickups for Your Guitar
Quick Selection Guide
If you play metal, thrash, or hard rock:
EMG 81/85 Set - Bridge 81 for tight rhythm, Neck 85 for thick leads. This is the standard. Can't go wrong. Most popular choice for metal worldwide.
If you want modern metal with more dynamics:
EMG 57/66 Set - Similar to 81/85 but less compressed, more open. Better "feel" under your fingers while maintaining active pickup benefits.
If you play clean and lead more than rhythm:
EMG 81/60 Set - Bridge 81 for when you need aggression, Neck 60 for smoother, more vintage-style lead tones and cleaner passages.
If you're Zakk Wylde fan or want his tone:
Zakk Wylde EMG Set - Same as 81/85 but with black chrome caps. Get the exact pickups Zakk uses in his guitars.
If you want maximum brutality in both positions:
Dual EMG 81s (Kerry King style) - 81 in both bridge and neck. Extreme aggression everywhere. Only do this if you rarely play clean or want pure brutality.
EMG Pickup Installation Service
We offer professional EMG pickup installation at Angkor Music Melbourne. EMG pickups can be installed using either traditional soldering or EMG's solderless wiring system (included with most EMG sets).
What's Included in Installation
- Remove old pickups
- Install EMG pickups (bridge and/or neck)
- Route battery compartment (if needed - additional cost)
- Connect EMG solderless wiring system
- Test all positions and electronics
- Setup included (if requested)
Installation Pricing
Single Pickup: $80
Pickup Set (Bridge + Neck): $140
Full HSS/SSS Set: $180
Battery Box Routing: From $50 (if not present)
Note: Most modern guitars have battery compartments already. If yours doesn't, we can route one professionally. Call for quote.
Professional Installation Recommended: While EMG's solderless system is designed for DIY installation, we recommend professional installation to ensure proper grounding, secure connections, and optimal performance. Incorrectly installed pickups can hum, cut out, or fail completely.
EMG Active Pickups vs Passive Pickups
Understanding the difference between active (EMG) and passive pickups helps you make the right choice for your playing style.
| Feature | EMG Active | Passive (Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio) |
|---|---|---|
| Output Level | Very high, consistent | Varies by model |
| Noise/Hum | Zero hum, dead silent | Some hum (especially single coils) |
| Battery Required | Yes (9V, 1500+ hours) | No |
| Tone Character | Tight, focused, compressed | More dynamic, organic |
| Best For | Metal, hard rock, high gain | All styles, especially blues/clean |
| Clean Tones | Good but compressed | More dynamic range |
| Installation | Solderless option available | Soldering required |
| Price Range | $190-280 per pickup | $190-350 per pickup |
EMG Pickups FAQs
Do EMG pickups really sound different than passive pickups?
Yes, significantly. EMG active pickups sound tighter, more focused, and more compressed than passive pickups. The bass response is tighter (better for palm muting), the mids are more aggressive, and the highs are extended and clear. They excel at high-gain metal tones but sound less dynamic and organic for clean playing compared to passive pickups. If you play metal or hard rock primarily, EMGs are ideal. If you play blues, jazz, or clean tones mostly, passive pickups are usually better.
How long do EMG batteries last?
EMG pickups use standard 9V batteries that typically last 1,500-3,000 hours of playing time. For most players, this means 1-2 years before replacement. The battery only drains when a cable is plugged into the output jack, so unplugging when not playing extends battery life. Many players keep a spare 9V battery in their case. When the battery dies, your guitar simply goes silent - it won't damage anything. Cost: $2-5 per battery replacement.
What's the difference between EMG 81 and 85?
EMG 81: Uses ceramic magnets, tighter bass, more aggressive mids, extended highs. Best in bridge position for rhythm playing and palm muting. More focused and cutting.
EMG 85: Uses alnico magnets, fuller bass, warmer mids, smoother highs. Best in neck position for lead playing and solos. Thicker and warmer overall.
Most metal players use 81 in bridge and 85 in neck for the best of both worlds. Some players (Kerry King) use dual 81s for maximum aggression everywhere.
Can I install EMG pickups in any guitar?
Yes, EMG pickups fit in standard humbucker routes and can be installed in virtually any guitar. The main requirement is space for a 9V battery compartment. Most modern guitars (especially those with active electronics or locking tremolos) already have battery compartments. If your guitar doesn't have one, we can route a compartment professionally (typically $50-120 additional). EMG also offers mounting rings and pickup covers in various colors to match your guitar. Installation from $120-160 at Angkor Music Melbourne.
Are EMG pickups good for clean tones?
EMG pickups can produce clean tones, but they're not as dynamic and touch-sensitive as high-quality passive pickups. The clean sound is somewhat compressed and less organic. If you play clean tones 50% or more of the time, passive pickups (Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio) may suit you better. However, if you play metal or high-gain music primarily and need clean tones occasionally, EMG cleans are perfectly usable - just different in character. Models like the EMG 60 and 57/66 set offer better clean response than the standard 81/85.
What's the solderless wiring system?
EMG includes a solderless wiring system with most pickup sets. This system uses push-fit connectors that snap together without soldering, making installation easier and faster. The system includes color-coded cables that connect pickups to pots, switches, and output jack. While designed for DIY installation, we still recommend professional installation to ensure proper grounding and avoid common mistakes. The solderless system is reliable when installed correctly but can cause intermittent issues if connections aren't fully seated.
Which famous metal bands use EMG pickups?
Metallica (James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett), Slayer (Kerry King, Gary Holt), Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society, Ozzy), Children of Bodom (Alexi Laiho), Exodus (Gary Holt), Testament, Death Angel, Lamb of God, and thousands of other metal bands worldwide. EMG pickups have been the standard for thrash, death metal, and metalcore for decades. If you hear tight, aggressive, high-gain metal tone, there's a very good chance it's EMG 81/85.
Shop EMG Pickups at Angkor Music Melbourne
We stock EMG 81, 85, 60, 57/66 sets, signature pickups, and all major EMG models. Professional installation available. Call for pricing, advice, and installation quotes.
Angkor Music Melbourne - EMG Authorized Dealer
4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018
In Stock Now - Professional Installation Available
