EMG 81

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: High Output

Model of guitar or bass: Gibson Les Paul Classic
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Gibson open coil Humbuckers
Other pickups on guitar: Emg-81
Artists using this pickup: Jaymz Hetfield,Kirk Hammett, Slayer, Me
You musical style(s): Metal, Hard rock
Reason for pickup change: The gibson pickups were not giving me the sound i needed to be able to faithfully recreate the sound of Hetfields heavy rhythm guitar

Perceived output level: I plugged them into my amp and i was blown away by how hot and focused the sound was!... it is extremely loud too!
Tone: it has alot of treble with some sharp mids but has a well balanced low end as well
Sonic evaluation: I plugged my Les Paul into a Line6 POD and then into a Mesa/Boogie 2-channel 1 speaker combo.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play mostly Metal and i must say that this pickup is made for metal but is good for any other style of music except country or classical.

Comments: If this pickup were stolen I would be pissed cuz the guy who stole it probably wouldnt even know what the hell it was!As for being destroyed the pickup is built like a high output tank. I love the fact it has the punishing bone rattling crunch of metallica and i didnt have to drop 1500 bucks on a whole new guitar to acheive it. The only thing i could criticize about it is that playing clean with it is hard becuz it distorts in any p.u. position but u learn to adapt to it and screw with some knobs and itz fine..I finally found the sound i am gonna stick with! Long Live Metal!!!!!!

Pickup features: Active humbucking
Impedence or other specs: Er...check the website http://www.emginc.com/

Model of guitar or bass: ESP KH-2 Kirk Hammet Signature Model
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar: EMG-81
Artists using this pickup: Jaymz Hetfield, Kirk Hammet, Slayer...
You musical style(s): Metal, thrash, classical, neo-classical
Reason for pickup change: Came stock with the guitar

Perceived output level: Very high output, much more than all the passives I've heard
Tone: Bassy and trebly, very little mids, sounds real good!
Sonic evaluation: I'm running my KH-2 through a CrateGFX1200h head and 4x12 cab. A lot of other people here say the pickup has no bass, well, with my set-up (which isn't great, I'd rather be running this through a Dual Rectrifer) I have a thick and heavy bottom end that's very well defined no matter how much gain you use, and smooth high end that isn't harsh at all. Also, a lot of people say that this pick-up sounds like crap clean, well, switching both of the pick-ups on and adding some chorus and reverb, I get a really awesome clean sound.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I think it suits anything in the metal genre, also great for hard rock and even classical, if you have one in the neck. Probably the only thing that this pick-up isn't good for is country,

Comments: If these pick-ups crapped out on me, or someone stole it, I'd get another one, even though they are expensive.Although, I might put an EMG-60 in the neck just to see if I could improve the tone (even though it's great, I always assume there's something better out there) I've been playing for about four years, seriously playing for about 1 year. The only gear I own is mentioned above, except for my Epiphone LP. These pick-ups blow away any others that I have heard in as far as output and quietness go, there is a little room for improvement in the tone department, but all in all I'm very happy with the way these sound.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: High Output

Model of guitar or bass: ESP Explorer 200
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Seymour Duncan Designed
Other pickups on guitar: EMG-81
Artists using this pickup: MetallicA, many Metal bands!
You musical style(s): Anything with HEAVY distortion.
Reason for pickup change: I liked my stock pickups, but I wanted more output.

Perceived output level: Much more than stock, but not extremely.
Tone: Good bass, good trebel and highs, I love E'm!
Sonic evaluation: I'm using my guitar thru a Peavey Bandit 112 thru a Boss MT-2 Metal zone pedal.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: This are very good for netal. The clean sounds are a little harsh. Not warm clean sound.

Comments: I love the humbuckers! They Overdrive my amp a hell-of-alot. I'm very very happy! If I lost these I would defenetely love them again! I love them MAN! I do!

Pickup features: active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: 3.25 output voltage, very Hot

Model of guitar or bass: Paul Reed Smith CE-22
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: PRS Dragon Treble
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 60
Artists using this pickup: Metallica, Zack Whyld
You musical style(s): Hard Rock etc.
Reason for pickup change: The stock pick ups were very good and had a very high output, maybe the highest of any passive that I have ever herd. I changed it because the stock was a little muddy in the low mids and bass, I knew what the 81 sounded like so I decided to change it.

Perceived output level: I allready knew what it sounded like and how hot it was but I was supprised how hot the stock one was when the 81 was installed. But the 81 is still the hottest P\U I have ever herd. If their was a better one I would be using it.
Tone: ultra clear highs but not pearcing, smooth mids, great low end with no mud.
Sonic evaluation: My set up is simple. PRS guitars Mesa Dual Recto, mixture of new and vintage stomp box's (Delay, Tremolo, Chorus, Phase) volume and wha. all through a 4 12 mesa cab with vintage 30's

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: for the sound that I am looking for (Modern high gain rock) it is the ideal P\U

Comments: Lets just say that I am actually doing a write up of this pick up, which means it must be a really great product for me, I would buy a new one in a second if it got stolen.

Pickup features:
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: epiphone les paul standard
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: stock
Other pickups on guitar: emg 89
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s): various kinds of metal, some hard rock and blues
Reason for pickup change: Stock pickup wasn't too bad for a stock pickup, but I needed more output, clarity, and a better tone

Perceived output level: Hotter than stock, but not overwhelmingly
Tone: Trebly, but very clear, articulate , and rich
Sonic evaluation: I was almost to the point of throwing this guitar in the dumpster before I got these pickups. I tried way too long to get a good tone out of the stock pickups. So, I decided to spend a couple hundred bucks on new pickups before I went out and spent over a grand on a good guitar. I made a good choice. It sounds like a completely different guitar. When a guitar sounds good it seems a lot easier to play. The stock pickups were weak. Using distortion on them sounded too buzzy, the notes were not clear, and they had no punch at all on the thinner strings . The emg81 was the exact opposite. Right now I'm running it through a Boss MetalZone and a CE-5 into a Crate GFX-212 and it sounds excellent. I think the only way it would sound better is if I were using a high quality tube amp. It doesn't sound good clean(at least in the bridge-I'd like to hear one in the neck). For metal or hard rock or even just using a little overdrive for blues it is heaven. I really like the way it sounds during leads.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: For my style this is a perfect match. I use my neck pickup(emg 89) for clean sounds so this is not an issue.

Comments: I will definitely buy one again if I get a different guitar. I've been playing for about 11 years although most of those years I played strictly bass. There is nothing I dislike about this product. Some say it is too trebly, but at least with my gear I have to disagree. I don't want a pickup with so much bass that makes my amp and walls rumble anyway. I strongly recommend this product. BUY ONE!

Pickup features: Active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: I'm sure somebody else knows

Model of guitar or bass: ESP LTD M-200
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: stock pickups- duncan designed, and assembled by retards
Other pickups on guitar: -
Artists using this pickup: Hetfield, Hammett, Helms(that's me), anyone else who's good.
You musical style(s): METAL & classical guitar
Reason for pickup change: I wanted them to turn me from a booger-picking nerd into a
testosterone-pumping steroid junky. No, I just wanted to be
able to play a lead without blood coming out of my forehead.
I must say I made the right decision.

Perceived output level: Just a bit louder than the stock pickups
Tone: Trebly and clear, but oh so powerful rythm yet!
Sonic evaluation: I "sob sob" have a little pe- pe- peavey blazer 158, damn solid state crap.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I have an 81 in the bridge and another 81 in the neck. so sweet.

Comments: I love this pickup! It does crunchy power chording in the bridge position and brilliant soloing in the neck position. If it were stolen I'd hire Perry Mason to find the guy that stole them. Then I'd walk up to the guy on the street and politely ask him for my pickups back. And when he sticks out his hand I'll chop it off with a machete and cast a voodoo death curse on his nuts.

Pickup features: Active humbuckers
Impedence or other specs: Not sure of the impedence. High output.

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone Les Paul Classic
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Epiphone Stock Humbuckers
Other pickups on guitar: Both pickups are now EMG 81's
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammet, James Hetfield, Buddy Guy, Zack Wilde
You musical style(s): Metal, Blues, Classic Rock, Southern Rock
Reason for pickup change: The stock pickup's sucked. The neck pu souned O.K.,
but I felt I needed new pickups.

Perceived output level: High output. About twice as loud as the stock pickups.
Tone: Bassy, but well balanced. Sounds very nice on whatever setting I use.
Sonic evaluation: I play through a solid state Crate with about 8 pedals. I use a Daddy-O for my distortion, and a Morley wah constantly. The pickups sound like they were made for me.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I could literally play any style with this pickup. It's that awesome.

Comments: I would definitely buy this pickup again. I feel like playing all the time. I have four guitars, and this is the only one I use often. The only thing I can think to make it better would be an easier installation. (It took me and an experienced electrician 3 hours!) To those who think it is limited to metal, you are probably playing through the wrong amp. These pickups sond best through tube amps. Through solid state, they tend to sound sterile unless you have a whole mess of pedals. If you want details about my equipment, I'd gladly e-mail diagrams, explainations and costs to you.

Pickup features: humbucking, active
Impedence or other specs: What?

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez S540Ltd
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Ibanez Stock
Other pickups on guitar: Emg-SA(middle), Emg-89(neck)
Artists using this pickup: Everybody that's good
You musical style(s): Punk,Metal,classical,ska,Alternative etc etc (basicly not country)
Reason for pickup change: I spoil my guitar and I figured what better way to have it sound better and increase it's value (everybody likes to know their guitar is worth more then they paid)It's a lame ass reason but none the less it's badass now.

Perceived output level: Noticeably louder, I an put headphones straight into the guitar and hear it (CRAZY!)
Tone: It's the best it can be considering it's in the bridge
Sonic evaluation: I have an Ultimate Chorus(Fender) and a FabTone(danelectro). I can get most sounds that I desire. Through my set up, any plucking is a treat. I swear, you don't even need to know how to play and it still sounds good.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Everything but country I only tried it in the bridge. I never thought about putting it in the neck.

Comments: If it were stolen, I'd buy a used Emg one because it's hard to spend 80 dollars when I was able to pay 55 for a used one. If it's for a good price,it's a good pickup but I can't justify anything over $80. I have only plaid for a year and a half give or take and I'm progressing quite nicely. I have the Emg Preamp in my guitar, damn, the sustain is almost endless and tapping is responsive nice. This Pickup is a distortion pickup, not to say that it doesn't sound good clean,but I don't play clean through the bridge, I use the middle or neck so I can't really say anything good when it's compared to those sounds. I have to admit that I had a bitch of a time installing them. It's kind of the fault of my Pick selector(Ibanez 5 way) and the manual. They show a "Fender Class" switch and mine is different. It took me several dyas to figure it wasn't working the way it was suppose to. I hated the pickups sounds till I had them figured right. Once all sorted out from a few QUICK responses from their tech, I was jammin and smilin. Don't expect anything magical to come out of these though. True they will enhance your sound but I had to frown when my girlfriend said she didn't notice a difference. Maybe it was just her, but anways, I think they're a great pickup for around 80.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Peavey Predator
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Peavey Passive Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: 2 single coil Peavey passives
Artists using this pickup: Metallica, anybody else really matter?
You musical style(s): Anything that's loud or is fast (Steve Vai, etc.)
Reason for pickup change: I heard thsi is what Metallica used and I heard that they were the top of the line for Heavy Metal playing.

Perceived output level: Really good output, more then the passive coil, very nice sustain, low hum
Tone: Just right amount of low crunch, great highs, not too much middle
Sonic evaluation: I'm using a Peavey Predator through a Rage 158 speaker, and I thought the sound wouldn't be as great since it's such a small speaker. I was so wrong, it sounds great through mostly anything.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: This pickup is good for just about anything, since I only have it in the bridge position I don't know what it sound like with one in the neck position also.

Comments: If it were stolen, I would find one as fast as possible and get it into my guitar. I've only been playing for about 8 months, but I know good sound when I here it. Probably the best thing that I like about it is it gives me that awesome crunch sound that makes you want to start whaling away on it. Probably something that everybody can agree with me on is that they are a little expensive if you buy them brand new. ($118.00 a piece). But again, it's worth it! I'm satisfied with this sound, and I can't wait till I get one in the neck position too. If you would like an all-around pick-up and gets respect from alot of players, I would recommend this pick-up.

Pickup features: Active Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: ESP LTD M-II
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: ESP LH-200
Other pickups on guitar: EMG S
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield, Zakk Wylde, Me
You musical style(s): Everything but counrty/western, thrash/death.
Reason for pickup change: Need some more bass and a little bit more output to get clean signal all the way through my rack.

Perceived output level: Loud, definitely not quiet. I played a KH-2 that was built two years ago and I think EMG actually beefed them up a little bit since then.
Tone: Full tonal response. Its got it where it counts.
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:

Comments:

Pickup features: Correction of my earlier submission...
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass:
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:

Perceived output level:
Tone:
Sonic evaluation:
For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable:

Comments: I can?t belive I gave this pu a 10 before. It?s too sterile with no real personality. Ok, you get killer crunch but no color and if you play it clean it sounds like you?re playing with 10 year old strings... plonk plonk...

Pickup features: active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: dont know

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez RG 320 DX
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: stock Ibanez
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 85
Artists using this pickup: Slayer! others too numerous to list
You musical style(s): Metal only
Reason for pickup change: Stock Ibanez pickups are always too low and muddy. Can't realisticly play metal w/o EMGs anyway in my opinion

Perceived output level: active so they have a small bit of preamp, lots of volume, nice gain output
Tone: nice bite, good clear high end, not TOO much crunch but its not designed to. with an 85 the tone is perfect
Sonic evaluation: Im using a Crate GFX-212 (120 watts solid state, two 12 inch speakers, built in chorus, delay, flange, reverb, and chorus/reverb settings) the sound is f*****g hot! there is just no reason to ever buy any other brand of pickups. with a touch of chorus, the perfect metal tone is achieved.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Metal is the perfect style for this pickup. if your a folk guitarist or into fuzzy lame grunge tone its not for you

Comments: EMG is THE metal pickup. killer tone, killer overdrive, crushing palm mutes, clean peircing solos, and hair raising harmonics. I will always use EMG on any guitar I own

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: 25K pots, .01mF capacitor, 3.25 Output Voltage

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone 1998 Limited Edition Les Paul
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock Pickup
Other pickups on guitar: Stock Neck Pickup
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield, Slayer, and others.
You musical style(s): Metal!!, Jazz, Blues, Classic Rock, Rockabilly, and even Country
Reason for pickup change: I just wanted more gain for a metal onslaught.

Perceived output level: Pretty damned hot, but other people overstate it.
Tone: Trebly, defined mids, just the right amount of bass.
Sonic evaluation: With a Marshall Valvestate 30R and a Boss Metal Zone, the sound is phenomenal. Treble and mid are refined and well preportioned. Bass is heavy, but without a big bass thump. Notes ring clear and true with the gain pushed to the max. You can really hear all the notes in a bar chord. Distortion and tone stay consistent when you turn down the volume knob. It doesn't do clean very well, but it can pass, however, it sounds a little too sterile on a clean setting.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: For METAL, it's a match made in Heaven... or is it Hell? Don't play country with it, though!

Comments: Well, after 4 MONTHS of waiting for a pickup that WASN'T EVEN ORDERED!!!!, I finally pulled the strings and got it for free. I exchanged the crappy little Epiphone amp that came with the cool guiatr for the EMG-81. The stock pickup was pretty good, but the EMG-81 is much better; however, it's not like it's the best pickup in the world. But it still is better than almost all high gain pickups out there. Maybe with a MESA/BOOGIE will I be able to get a great metal sound, but my setup now is very satisfactory.

Pickup features: Humbucking Active
Impedence or other specs: Uh, yeah.

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson RR-1 Rhoads
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: none
Other pickups on guitar: EMG-85
Artists using this pickup: Hetfield, Hammett, Kerry King, Jeff Hanneman, Timo Tolkki, Zakk Wylde, Etc
You musical style(s): Metal! British/Prog
Reason for pickup change: They came stock.

Perceived output level: Pretty hot, but not super duper hot.. About a bit more than a Dimarzio Super Distortion.
Tone: Nice bass definition, not much midrange, lotsa treble.
Sonic evaluation: This rhoads into a Peavey Ultra Plus stack..it sounds really nice, I boost up my mids and bass a lot, and this really balances the sound off.. lotsa bass definition, bright, enhances my amp's natural tube-ness, INCREDIBLE harmonics.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play metal, it sounds great.. it would be a good match for metal or hard rock, not much else.

Comments: I'd definately buy it again, i love it.. awesome. Got my sound, fuck yeah. Came with the guitar, I was happy.

Pickup features: active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: READ MY WHOLE REVIEW!!! HAS INFO THAT OTHER PEOPLE'S DOSE NOT!!!

Model of guitar or bass: ESP Hoizon
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: ESP H-200 (stock pickup)
Other pickups on guitar: same
Artists using this pickup: the wise people
You musical style(s): all kinds of metal, they have too many types, so, i'll say all.
Reason for pickup change: i had a dimarzio super distortion in the bridge for a while but when i saw the EMGs half off due to a mistake in advertising, i couldnt resist. the super distortion was good but the EMG has good reviews and i'v played it before to prove it to myself.

Perceived output level: GREAT!!! if you have a good amplifier and effects setup, this pickup will realy come alive. when i play it on my old practice combo, it stinks. on a good setup, this pickup realy defines notes and reduces noise.
Tone: with the right setup, this will make a custom tone for anyone.
Sonic evaluation: my ESP horizon goes great with my digitech rp-7 and peavy classic 50 combo. (all tube amp)

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: i play lots-o-metal, so the 81 is the best compared to the other EMG models. the higher the pickup number, the higher the output. but the 81 has something that the 85 dosen't that lets you get more crunch.

Comments: if this pickup was destoyed or stolen, i would definatrely replace it. i have been playing for nearly 3 years. the great things about this pickup is that it can be unconnected from the wiring in the guitar, so you can switch it with another model. (no re-wiring needed) a bad thing about the EMG active pickups is that it dosent have a very high output like most people say or think. the noise gate on my pedal blocked it too much do i had to change it so it wasnt as strong. if you have any info in relation to this small problem, contact me. i am very satisfied with this pickup. BUT WARN YOU, DO NOT BUY IT IF INTENDED FOR USE ON A SMALL AMPLIFIER.

Pickup features: Humbuckeing/Active What else?
Impedence or other specs: Dont remember impedance, but i know you have to change you pots to 25k (and add a batt)

Model of guitar or bass: Gibson Explorer '76 Reissue
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Stock Gibsons (496R and 500T)
Other pickups on guitar: Nope only EMG 81, was thinking of a 60 or 85, but the 81 are the highest output.
Artists using this pickup: James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett- Metallica Me- Binge & Purge
You musical style(s): Metal, the good kind with tons of bass, plenty of treble, and no mids at all!
Reason for pickup change: I like the stock pickups, but i knew that the EMG 81's would sound much better. AND THEY DID! Much higher output, less noise, better frequencie response, and many other great things. THE BEST PICKUP IN THE WORLD!

Perceived output level: More gain than passive (duh) with more bass, less mid, and about the same treble. They also sound great clean (well if you also have a low gain input on your amp) But you know they were made for amp melting distortion!
Tone: Bassy, no mids, enough treble, balanced I wired them so they are in phase (i dont trust techs at music stores)
Sonic evaluation: I use as i said a '76 Gibson explorer, i rarely use pedals, but i got a ton of them (like 17) But i mostly use my amps distortion, i have a peavey Transtube bandit (great distortion) that i run into a marshall 4x12. the impeadance had to be matched to make it sound good though. and it does it sounds damn good, for practice and for gigs!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play metal (metallica, own songs, whatever sounds good.) And i think these pickups suit everything well.

Comments: if they were stolen i would have to kill the person who took them, and i doubt they will be destroyed (unless im hit by lightning) I have been playing for three years, but have progresse very well. i own a ton of other equipment that i wont even get into (if you realy want to know, just mail me at MetaLL4723@aol.com)i love everything about these pickups, but hate that i have to unplug it when im done playing, and have to change the battery every once in a while. I compared it to other EMG models, and decided the are great for me. the only thing i wish it had, and some day might add is a system to cut mids even more, and i know EMG makes one.Ive found the perfect sound (guitar wise) with these pickups and my explorer. now i just want an other one (lol)

Pickup features: Active Humbucker.
Impedence or other specs: Check the web site. I get dizzy just looking at all the tech stuff...

Model of guitar or bass: ESP EXPLORER 200
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Seymour Duncan Designed Humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: another Duncan Desinged
Artists using this pickup: James Hetfield(My idle!) and Kirk Hammet form MetallicA, Max Cavalera from Soufly...
You musical style(s): Trash Metal ect.... anything with Loads'O'Distortion.
Reason for pickup change: The stck humbuckers provide an OK crunch, but not enough.

Perceived output level: Sh*t! Beats the Hell out of my stock humbuckers! I'll probably get another for the neck.
Tone: Not too bassy, I have Mid, so this does a good job at helping me eliminate mid.
Sonic evaluation: I'm Running my Explorer 200 thru a Peavey Bandit 112S.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play metal, and this pick-ups were born to KICK ASS.

Comments: I give this pickups the highest score. Too bad they aren't alive or i'll marry them.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker (is that redundant?)
Impedence or other specs: Check their website

Model of guitar or bass: Kramer Focus 3000
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock
Other pickups on guitar: EMG s & EMG SA
Artists using this pickup: Does it matter?
You musical style(s): Hard Rock to Metal, some Blues
Reason for pickup change: Stock PU's were really bad.

Perceived output level: High output but not over-the-top or anything.
Tone: Nice midrange with a little too much treble. This PU has great punch and attack but not a lot of bass. This PU does not have a "fat" sound, so when overdriven and EQ'd you can have the bass response without the mud.
Sonic evaluation: Play it through a 100W Mesa/Boogie Mk III into an old Marshall 4x10 cab. Use a Boss GE-7 graphic EQ in the effects loop (improvement over the the 5-band that is on the Boogie)

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Great match for the styles I play. Use this PU in bridge position only.

Comments: I've been playing for about 24 years or so. I would buy it again, if stolen; but if I could find a passive PU that had a comparable tone and quietness I would buy it instead. Changing batteries is not that big of a deal but every time my tone changes even a little, I wonder "Is it the batteries?"

Pickup features: humbucking. active.
Impedence or other specs: duh, i don't know

Model of guitar or bass: b.c. rich nj warlock
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: b.c. rich stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: other b.c. rich stock humbucker which is not even being used.
Artists using this pickup: from what i've heard, slayer, death, vader, metallica, etc.
You musical style(s): grindcore/death metal/black metal
Reason for pickup change: stock pickups sucked wicked bad. heard these were awesome. i heard right.

Perceived output level: alot more. extremely hot, it might be common to say but it's true.
Tone: full sound, mid range comes through well, i can tell the notes apart easily. awesome crunch. incredible sustain.
Sonic evaluation: i'm using it with a b.c. rich nj warlock through a marshall jcm800 head and marshall 1960a cab and fender 1x15 cab. it sounds awesome, it's hot as hell, with an amazing crunch for palm muting, and the notes are all clear even on blurr/blast parts.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: i play grindcore and yes this is an amazing match. i only have this pickup at the bridge position so i don't know what position it is unsuitable for because i haven't tried it out in any other position yet.

Comments: if it were stolen i would want another one yes. i have been playing for 11 years. i also have a fender american standard stratocaster. i love everything about it i hate nothing. i compared it to the stock pickups which sucked so the emg wins hands down. i wish it came with an emg-85 for free that i could throw in the neck position. i am satisfied with this pickup.

Pickup features: Active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: ehh...?

Model of guitar or bass: ESP Eclipse Custom
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar: Another EMG, I don?t know what model but it can be splitted and it kicks ass!!
Artists using this pickup: Metallica, well anyone in their right mind....
You musical style(s): Hard rock to metal to blues....
Reason for pickup change:

Perceived output level: Every other guitar whith other pickups are soooo lame compared to this one. You bearly need to touch the voume knob on your amp (don?t take this too seriously).
Tone: Due to the geat bassy wood in my guitar I would say that its pretty balanced.... but I don?t really know... it just sounds great.
Sonic evaluation: In my apartment I use my ESP thru a Boss Metalzone pedal into a 25w Fender Frontman.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: For metal this pu works great, when i play clean i just use the neck pu instead cause the 81 is a bit sterile. Not really unsuitable for anything... exept campfire doodling...

Comments: Actually its being repaired right now, due to som weired powerloss thing. But there will never be any other pu on any axe in my arsenal unless i go totally broke.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone G310
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: none
Artists using this pickup: Zakk Wylde (god), Metallica, Slayer, RATM (?)
You musical style(s): Metal, blues, classic rock, everything
Reason for pickup change: stock pickups sucked

Perceived output level: Easily the nhottest pickup ive ever heard (except maybe the Duncan Livewire)
Tone: Pretty balanced but a bit cold w/ high gain. Im not a big fan of its clean tone though.
Sonic evaluation: I'm using this into a boss metal zone and the sound is amazing which then goes into a marshall vs100 combo w/ various other effects in between. It definatly works for me.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Metal, Blues, etc. exceptionally suited to these styles, i however havnt tried it in the neck position but kirk hammet does so its probobly cool.

Comments: Easily the core of my tone and ive grown used to it so it would definatly be replaced if something hapened to it. But then again i wouldnt have bought it ive the Seymour Duncan Livewire wasnt sold out (only because i knew what that sounded like) but thank god it was sold out because i love this p.u. ann id be up the creek w/o it.

Pickup features: humbucker/active
Impedence or other specs: huh?

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez RG470
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: bridge, infinity/made by Ibanez
Other pickups on guitar: Infi
Artists using this pickup: briefly: King/Hanneman- SLAYER, Peter- VADER, Chuck- DEATH, oh yeah, and a couple other sellouts mentioned above.
You musical style(s): just fuckn' said, I think you can tell
Reason for pickup change: The Ibanez infi's are just to weak for what I play and expect from my sound. EMG's are simply active as shit to throw out extreme output and produce the sharp edge presision and crunch for every aspect in metal.

Perceived output level: Bright and heavy if intended
Tone: has more of a bass and treble boost
Sonic evaluation: Ibanez RG470 and Peavy 5150 half stack.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I live metal. This pickup is the soul of my distortion.

Comments: I would buy this again. I have been honored to play guitar for over eight years. I own numorous amounts of gear and I need not list them. The EMG81 extends the character of your sound. That is all. Spread metal, not rumors!- BRUTAL REGARDS...

Pickup features: Active Pickup
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Jap Strat
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Duncan Hot Rails
Other pickups on guitar: Cheap-ass single coils
Artists using this pickup: Over-paid endorsers
You musical style(s): bedroom rock
Reason for pickup change: I thought it would give me more output and a heavier sound.....WRONG!

Perceived output level: Less output than the hot rails
Tone: sharp, scratchy
Sonic evaluation: Jap Strat through a Johnson Millenium. Don't play this pickup through a Johnson or any other Tube wannabe amps.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Blues, Classic Rock, Metal

Comments: If it were stolen it would probably be a blessing in disguise. Maybe I would have better luck with an all tube amp, but it doesn't work through my johnson. I use my g & l with a schaller golden 50's and it sounds very thick and creamy. The hot rails didn't sound bad, but I was just looking for more output. What I got was a very thin sound, no balls. I thought my guitar had been neutered

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: 25k

Model of guitar or bass: 90's Fender Mexican Squier :-(
Position: neck
Pickup being replaced: Entire Electronics and Pickguard
Other pickups on guitar: EMG SA (middle), 85 (neck)
Artists using this pickup: a bunch
You musical style(s): hmmmmmmmmmmmm???
Reason for pickup change: I bought this guitar for $200 inorder to experiment. When I decided to try EMG, I figured I might as well go for the whole kit and caboodle.

Perceived output level: Simply more gain and volume than any other pickup. I might try hooking in another 9v for 18v all in all. Just have to do a little more routing.
Tone: I would definitely say that EMGs have their own tone - unlike any other. The mid-range boost really gives it some character. The 81 is very even, but on the higher end of the frequency spectrum. I have to add more bass when using it, however I have to
Sonic evaluation: I have a Fender Blues Jr. which I like to use alot, simply because it is simpler to use, evaluate, and compare devices on. And I don't care if I blow the thing up trying something, either. My other amp is a 1970 100 watt lead head sitting on a 4x10, 540 watt Eden cab. My list of pedals consists of an MXR distortion, Big Muff distortion, Boss overdrive, Vox wah-wah, ancient Morley volume, 1974 MXR Phaser, Danelectro analog echo, old Electro-Harmonix envelope filter, and newer Uni-vibe w/ foot controller. My other guitars are a '91 Strat, a '94 Lucille, a G+L Legacy Special, and a to be assembled Tele ash body with gold hardware and probably Lindy Fralin pickups. I'm really running out of room!!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: From rockabilly to classical. I love Hendrix, old Genisis, Yes, ELP, and Pink Floyd. The 81 seems better suited to the Metal, Studio, and more technical, less bluesy material.

Comments: I think this pickup is O.K. It's tone doesn't really grab me and pull me in like my other guitars do. I like the 85 in the neck, but when in humbucker mode, it over powers the SA s.c. as does the 81. What I would really like to do is put an 81 and an 85 in either a Les Paul or a Korina flying V with the mid-range boost and treble boost. The mid-range cut is pretty useless. The single coils have more character and punch as well as more tonal range. Well, if they were stolen or whatever, I would not buy them again. The advantages of more power and the cleanest signal around do not outweigh the lack of warmth and the sterile feel of these pickups. If you must have active pickups, then go for EMG. If you want great tone, go for passive.

Pickup features: humbucka
Impedence or other specs: activo

Model of guitar or bass: strat
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup:
You musical style(s):
Reason for pickup change:

Perceived output level: has that sheety metal sound. not shity, just sheety
Tone: no bass. I'll take my duncan for a better overall sound
Sonic evaluation: i use a carvin sx200, which is a killer amp for being solid state. It actually does have a warm sound, only with my epiphone lp ,or the strat turned down too much.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: i play white trash rock/punk. this pickup isn't that good for that stuff. I'll replace it with a duncan most likely.

Comments:

Pickup features: active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: dont know th technical stuff

Model of guitar or bass: custom warmoth soloist
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: put in when guitar arrived from warmoth
Other pickups on guitar: none just the bridge
Artists using this pickup: every one thats serious about metal
You musical style(s): all metal 80's
Reason for pickup change: like i said no chabge just wanted the best in the best. by the way warmoth makes awsome guitars if anybody is enterested.

Perceived output level: i love this pickup, like everyone else says though, it is a ittle trebly. the harmonics that you can get from this thing is killer. emg says its hot so i guess its hot i dont care how it works ijust know it is an awsome product from an awsome company.
Tone: little on the trbly side and i mostly play rythm so i will probably be putting an 85 in my esp.
Sonic evaluation: right now just a crat excaliber half stack, the only effects i have is my little pandoras box, but you can not tell that the awsome sound is comming from that little box.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: i play metal and that seems to be the norm for this pickup. i dont play anythingelse so i would not know if it is good for other styles or not metal most definately

Comments: i have only been playing for about 5 years off and on and owned more guitars than i should have. none of my other guitars had emg's in them but now i know what was missing about them. i have an esp from the custom shop $2600.00 and its about to get an 85 in the bridge and an sa in the neck. if your looking for a pickup look no further emg is the only way to go "EMG get active in your playing" pun intended ha ha ha

Pickup features: Humbucking... Very Active
Impedence or other specs: Yes, the EMG 81 contains these...

Model of guitar or bass: Epiphone LP 100
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock pickup coil tapped by me
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 85
Artists using this pickup: Metallica and various other good bands
You musical style(s): Everything
Reason for pickup change: Stock pickup sounded weak, and got on my nerves...

Perceived output level: hot when you want it to be, quiet when you don't
Tone: a little more trebly than the 85, but a good pickup for the bridge
Sonic evaluation: My Epiphone LP 100 through a 1970 fender princeton reverb, using a DS1 or a Big Muff when i want distortion.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: i play everything, this pickup is very suitable for metal, or even hard rock... it could be used for any style though, maybe not good for folk music or stuff like that...

Comments: If stolen or destroyed, i would definately get a new one, perhaps a different guitar thou... I have been playing for 3 years... i am very satisfied with this pickup so far, and have found "that" sound that i have been looking for... could have been a little less expensive, but hey, pickups are expensive, face the facts... over all, this is a really good pickup...

Pickup features: Humbucking Active
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez Iceman
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Stock Ibanez junk
Other pickups on guitar: just 2 81's
Artists using this pickup: Slayer, Metallica, testament, Zakk Wylde
You musical style(s): Metal, blues, classical,
Reason for pickup change: The other pickups had a dull tone,no output

Perceived output level: More output than any pickup I've played on
Tone: with my rig (Rivera Knucklehead Half stack) I have lows that shake the walls and highs that scream. More of a brighter pickup
Sonic evaluation: Like I said I have a 100watt Knucklehead thru a Marshall 4x12. The guy with the little Fender said this pickup had no low end. I don't
know but i know when I pall mute a low e, I can feel it in my chest.
That's the bottomline.
Probably the best distortion pickup out there. i can get an awesome clean sound by turning my volume all the way down. and that's on my heavy metal channel of my Rivera. Using the 81 in the neck I can get
as good of clean sounds as I'll ever want.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play everything but country. My band plays metal. Great for everything in my opionion. I use one in the brige for distortion. One in the neck for clean or pretty leads. I love it

Comments: YOu have to change a battery once a year. Cry Cry. Cry. I'm getting ready to order more 81's for my other guitars. Others say that the gibson t-500 has a livelier sound. But you can't beat how quiet and how much output this pickup has.

Pickup features: Active Humbucking Pickup
Impedence or other specs: 25k impedance

Model of guitar or bass: Cheap-o-Squier Strat
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: EMG 85
Other pickups on guitar: EMG singles
Artists using this pickup: Metallica, Zakk Wilde, Kerry King....you get the picture.
You musical style(s): Metal and Blues
Reason for pickup change: Liked the EMG 85 but wanted a higher output pickup.

Perceived output level: More than an 85
Tone: no bass or mids mostly highs
Sonic evaluation: I use a Strat and a Randall Halfstack and a Metal Zone. And to be honest I do see what all the fuss is about. I know lots of awesome guitarists use it but with the lack of bass it kinda sucked. I think I might be better if I had the EMG pre-amp that boosts the bass and treble, but then again there is already a lot of treble on this pickup.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Metal and Blues

Comments: Well I'm going to sell this pickup I believe. I got a better sound with the 85. I'm just going to buy the pre-amp that has the boost on it. Then I believe I will have the tone I'm looking for. Maybe it's just hooked up wrong but maybe I just don't like the sound I get. Well out with the 81 and in with the 85 again.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: Low impedance, hi output

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson Kelly
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Jackson J50 and something else... ceramic...
Other pickups on guitar: 81's
Artists using this pickup: Kirk and James of Metallica
You musical style(s): Metal, Hard Rock, Blues, some R&B, NO COUNTRY
Reason for pickup change: The Jackson pickups had sucky sustain and I wanted to create the '5 minute' harmonic sustains that Kirk does sometimes... I also needed to hear the notes I played...

Perceived output level: Crazy Hot - you can still hear it when the amp's volume is on 0!
Tone: Totally Trebly, not much bass at all, come to think of it...
Sonic evaluation: Using a Fender Princeton 112, I find the clean sound very pleasing, the notes are distinct and fast phrases are clear. Overdriving my amp (using the amp's distortion) gives a great hard-rock sound. Also, slamming on the trem gives MUCH better results than with the old Jackson pickups. And surprisingly, when I play a note, i hear it. And when I don't play any, it's silent as ... something with no mouth...

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Great match for metal... Great clean sound for Rock or Blues, not too suitable for soft songs...

Comments: If it were destroyed or stolen, I'd buy them again because of the GREAT deal i get from Sam Ash. I'm about to get a Metal Zone cuz i'm tired of acting like I'm playing rhythm with my DOD Grunge pedal. I love EVERYTHING about this little bugger and well, there's not much to hate. EMG Pickups rule and I'm gonna endorse them when I get famous (if??). I am totally satisfied with the 81, though i'll be testing out an 85 soon...

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: low impedance

Model of guitar or bass: Lotus strat
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock bridge humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: Stock single coils with EMG PA-2 Preamps
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammet, James Hetfield
You musical style(s): Metal, (Metallica, Megadeth, Pantera, Slayer)
Reason for pickup change: I wanted higher output and a better tone

Perceived output level: Hot, more output than any other pickup
Tone: Very bright, mostly trebly, very clear and open sound, you can hear every sting in a chord clearly
Sonic evaluation: I am using a Lotus strat with a Digitech RP-6 guitar processor (sucks) through a Charvel and Epiphone amp.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play mostly metal and this is a good match, although this pickup has a great clean sound, which is surprising because all of the other reviews said that the clean sound is bad. This pickup should be used in the bridge.

Comments: If it were destroyed or stolen I probably would not buy it again, it's too expensive. When buying this pickup I was also considering a
Seymour Duncan Invader or a Dimarzio Evolution. This is a great pickup but it really doesn't change your sound that much. The other reviews seem to really exagerate the output and the overall differance in the sound. Also, changing the battery is a pain in the ass. I have to take off the strings, open the pickgaurd, and then very carefully change the battery. This is probably the best pickup you can get but a better amp or a distortion pedal would improve your sound more. I am going to buy a BOSS Metalzone, this will really let me take advantage of this great pickup.

Pickup features: Humbucking Active
Impedence or other specs: 25k

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson PS6-T
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: J70 (Jackson)
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 85
Artists using this pickup: Jeff Hanneman, Eric Peterson
You musical style(s): Thrash 'n' Burn
Reason for pickup change: Jackson Pickups are too noisy and feed back too much.

Perceived output level: So hot you don't need an amp
Tone: Crunchy mids, lots of bass, Harsh treble
Sonic evaluation: Great pickup for what I do. Jackson PS-6T and VS100 (Marshall). This pickup is really deep Crunchy and tight. Very harsh (in a good way).

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play Thrash. It is the best for what I play- in the vien of Megadeth, Testament and Sacred Riech. I wouldn't use It for the neck, not warm enough not clean enough

Comments: The holy grail of thrash tone. I am so satisfied. I will never use anything else.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: forgot

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez Rx series
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Shitty stock pickup, Yuck!!
Other pickups on guitar: Two shitty single coils, Yuck!!
Artists using this pickup: The best in the world-Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield(METALLICA)
You musical style(s): Metal, Mainly Metallica and Megadeth
Reason for pickup change: If you heard the other ones you would think the guitar came from K-mart

Perceived output level: Kick Ass
Tone: If you play lead this is the pick-up to get, pretty good for lows, but dont try clean sounds you wont get it
Sonic evaluation: Using Crate 30W with Zoom 1010, and Crybaby Wah.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Play Metal, this is the only pickup for metal any other would be an insult to metal, best in bridge position.

Comments: This is the best you can buy and not that pricy compared to some shittier sounding fender or Dimarzio pickups, I am going to put EMG's on my Les Paul to, the pickup sounds better than those too. if anyone knows a kick ass EMG single coil good for clean sounds please E-mail me and tell me.

Pickup features: active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: 4 conductor

Model of guitar or bass: BC Rich Gunslinger
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Dimarzio Super Distortion (stock)
Other pickups on guitar: none
Artists using this pickup: Jeff Hanneman, Kerry King, Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield, Pepper Keenan, Woody Weatherman, Eric Peterson, Robb Flynn, Max Cavelara, MORE!!!
You musical style(s): death-speed-psycho-thrash metal
Reason for pickup change: I wanted the best!

Perceived output level: Extremely hot.... more than anything made by Dimarzio
Tone: Lots of lows and highs, sucked mids
Sonic evaluation: BC Rich -> Vox Wah-> Peavey TT Supreme Head or Crate Stealth head; effects loop is: rocktek chorus->boss phasor->ART 32 band EQ
Sounds great for metal!!!!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Perfect for metal. Good for lead guitarists too (Does a very good "Whole Lotta Love")

Comments: Definitely buy again (I'm trying to find some to put into my other two BC Riches). Played about 9 years and am yet to find anything that even come close for a metal sound. Active though, so bring a spare battery!!

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: ?

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson PS-3T
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock
Other pickups on guitar: Stock
Artists using this pickup: ? (i think metallica... but who cares)
You musical style(s): Metal
Reason for pickup change: New sound, better highs, nicer lead sound

Perceived output level: Louder, and it cranks harmonics up.
Tone: Bassy and High
Sonic evaluation: Peavey 160 W solid state, DOD death metal distortion, morley pro wah

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Metal... it does suite it.

Comments: If it were stolen, I would smile. I've been trying to sell it or
trade it. Its too much hassle to change batteries the whole time,
especially if your guitar has a front cavity (under the dials) for
the pots etc. So think about your guitar's design before you buy it.
One Note : If you replace only one (of 2 or 3) pickups you must
disconnect your ground wire which means **noise**.
I'm going to replace it with a Seymour Duncan Trembucker Distortion
if its a passive :)

Pickup features: Active Humbucking
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez RG 470 L
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: Stock Infinity
Other pickups on guitar: EMG SA
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammett, Zakk Wylde
You musical style(s): Metal
Reason for pickup change: Needed more output, distortion, gain. Needed guitar to overdrive amp with ease.

Perceived output level: Tons of gain. Much more than enough
Tone: Lacks lows and mids. Amp tweaking gets things close. EXG mod would help.
Sonic evaluation: Using Marshall JTM 30 all valve amp through Zoom 505 then Boss Metal Zone. Tons of gain and distortion. Pickups have too much gain to play anything clean. I have to switch guitars for clean sounds

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Metal is primary music type. Pickups are perfect. 81 in neck position is too hot.

Comments: The EMG 81's do the job for me just fine. They SCREAM. It tkes some time to get use to the high output. Pickups are VERY quiet. Iam sold on EMG's. I will probably put them in my Fender strat and Carvin CM 140. The sonic variations that can be had are endless. I wish the pickup had more lows to it but I think a add on module would do the trick. EMG sells a lot of stuff to tailor the sound to meet your needs. Beware of placing a factory order. They screwed up my order twice. I ma still happy with the end result.

Pickup features: humbucking
Impedence or other specs: low impedence

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez rg470 (basswood body, maple neck, rosewood fretboard)
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: stock infinity 2
Other pickups on guitar: EMG-85 and EMG-SA
Artists using this pickup: Most metal musicians
You musical style(s): metal
Reason for pickup change: Heard how much ass they kicked, low noise, high output, looked cool

Perceived output level: it's definetly loud, probably the loudest pickup ever made
Tone: I've been using this pickup as my main pickup for over 3 years, and compared to other pickups, I'd say it's loud, but really that's about it. I mostly hear mids coming through though espesially in the 400-700Hz area. Not as much bass as just about any oth
Sonic evaluation: I have two 4-12 cabs loaded vith Vintage-30's, a tube preamp, tube equilizer, Peavey tube amp - what does it matter what I'm using! - think for yourself!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: metal, industrial melodic metal

Comments: I've been playing more than 5.5 years. For the longest time, I thought it was the pickup of my dreams, but after awhile...I discovered passive pickups again! Like any piece of music equipment, after awhile you start hearing things you don't like. I thought The EMG81 started sounding a little too midrangey (espesially in the 500Hz area) that and it is a little sterole - though that steroleness kinda gives it more of an edgey sound. I think passive crunch harder, but the EMG81 will slam your amp harder. So the choice is yours.

Pickup features: active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: uh, no.

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez RG-570
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Ibanez stock humbucker
Other pickups on guitar: EMG-60 (neck)
Artists using this pickup: SLAYER! metallica, zakk wylde, etc.
You musical style(s): Metal
Reason for pickup change: Needed DEFINITION.. too much muddiness with high gain previously.

Perceived output level: A lot! More than any passive pickup, a little more than duncan's active livewire bucker.
Tone: very clean, even with tons o distortion.. i.e. you can hear each individual note in a chord.. sorta sterile sounding, but it's perfect for recording and rhythm.. solos are good but occasionally lack warmth.
Sonic evaluation: ibanez into metal zone into marshall JCM800..
it sounds GOOD! very high gain.. only problem is it distorts the clean sound, and turning the vol
down doesn't clean up all that well.. but the 60 in neck works wonders for that. As previously
mentioned, for solos, it really lacks the super warmth, that, say, a Duncan JB or Dimarzio PAF Pro
or Evolution have.. but it's still pretty good..

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: perfect for metal! For blues, country, it ain't very good.. it's not a versitle pickup by any means.

Comments: I might replace it again.. I have it on 2 guitars. But it sounds SO much better
when teamed with the EMG PA-2 preamp.. you get more warmth this way.. i like the pickup
though. perfect for metal.. the battery lasts about 4 months for me (powering two
EMGs with one battery), that's okay.. I love recording rhythm with this..
when It comes time to lay down the lead, though, I pull out an axe with Duncans..
just for the warmth!

Pickup features: Active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: needs a 25k volume pot to work well.....

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson Kelly
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Dimarzio X2N
Other pickups on guitar: EMG-85
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammet, James Hetfield, Zaak Wylde etc...
You musical style(s): Rock, Metal
Reason for pickup change: Wanted more clarity and wanted to cut through the mix better

Perceived output level: the Dimarzio X2N was really hotter!!!!!! the EMG is nothing beside it!!
Tone: Middy, no bass at all, balanced highs
Sonic evaluation: I can grok exactly the same tone as and justice for all from Metallica....no problem with that....the crunch is really hard and midrangey. But...........
This PU sounds really thin clean....it sucks!!!
With distortion, it really sucks for rythm too, but cuts through the mix for lead playing. Retains clarity even under massive gain. No bass, and I wanted something balanced...so I personnaly think it sucks for any other thing than lead playing....

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Good for metal....but it's not as hot as other people may say...

Comments: I would buy a set of EMG-85....more bass...more output also!!
I play through a Crate stack and a digitech RP-12.
I'm still searching for THAT sound!!!
Should be hotter, crunchier, and should really have more bass!!

Pickup features: Active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: Uhhh.... what?

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson King V Pro
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced:
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 89 (neck)
Artists using this pickup: James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett (Metallica)
You musical style(s): Heavy Metal
Reason for pickup change: Stock pickups had good output, but were rather noisy especially when distortion and compression were both on at once (lots o' white noise and non-harmonic feedback). Also, just looking to get a better tone overall.

Perceived output level: heh... Radioactive! 20% increase in tonal response over stock pickups.
Tone: Well balanced, slightly scooped lows and highs (great for heavy distortion).
Sonic evaluation: The 81 was part of a total pickup overhaul in which it was placed in my axe along with its sister, the 89, in bridge and neck positions, respectively. Distortion is provided by a Boss Metal Zone placed just behind a Boss compressor/sustainer. At the end of the loop is a Boss noise gate and graphic EQ, which are all fed into a Crate G-130 CXL twin (all solid-state). The gain from the 81 is so good that I get distortion from a clean tone if I hit the strings moderately hard (which is just about damn near all the time). Cleans ring out very bright and clear. As for distorted tones, well, that's where this baby shines even more. I can get as much power output from using the Metal Zone ONLY through the 81 than I used to with added compression/sustain along with the Metal Zone through the stock pickups. As for sustain, well, if I could live a million years and just stand there after hitting an E chord, I'm pretty sure the 81 would still be sustaining it, assuming someone replaced the battery every 3000 hours or so!

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: This pickup is perfect for heavy metal. Distortion purists will not be disappointed!

Comments: As far as pickups are concerned, no others will ever be put into this guitar. I got what I heard was the best, and installed them in my best axe, and it's my best tone ever. Installation was a bit of a pain in the ass (not the 81 alone, but in combination with the 89), but well worth the effort. I'm always looking out for new stuff that will make my tone better, and the EMG's I installed gave me the greatest single-step improvement in sound quality I could ever expect. You shouldn't expect anything less either, so believe me when I say that the EMG's kick ass, and then some.

Pickup features: Active
Impedence or other specs: 25k

Model of guitar or bass: B.C. Rich Warlock
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: DiMarzio
Other pickups on guitar: DiMarzio Passive
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammett-- need I say more? Jamez Hetfield
You musical style(s): MetaL, Hard Rock
Reason for pickup change: The 81 kicks ass and everybody knows it. More of a soloing tone needed and it looks cool.

Perceived output level: UltraHot
Tone: Hardcore
Sonic evaluation: The Warlock through a MetalZone Pedal (Save your money) and a crate 212 Amp.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Metal. Yes. It roxs

Comments: Get one or the second best choice is a Dimarzio X2N...
Thats hot too...

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: 1985 Charvel Strat
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Seymour Duncan Full Shred, Invader, and Di Marzio X2-N
Other pickups on guitar: none
Artists using this pickup: n/a
You musical style(s): Instrumental rock.. ala Via, Satch, Eric Johnson etc. ..
Reason for pickup change: I had an old Charvel body and built a great guitar with the best parts.. I kept switching pick-ups until I found a tone I loved..

Perceived output level: Peels paint on walls.. Rapes and pillages women and small children.. HOT
Tone: Neutral tone.. very clear and sparkling.. even with MASSIVE DISTORTATION
Sonic evaluation: Charvel Guitar - Marshall JCM2000 Full Stack (one JCM800, one JCM900) limited effects.. Morley Wah.. Alesis Rack Reverb/Delay

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Instrumental rock.. Original Metal/Blues/Progressive Rock.. this pick up is the KING..

Comments: The BEST. The ONLY pick-up I have found that can really be used for chords and lead with a JCM2000 on Ultra Gain Lead II (the super distoration chanel).. I have a brand new Jackson SL-1 with a Seymour Duncan JB.. It gets muddy as hell when the overdrive is blazing.. I need to see if I can use an 81 with the stock Seyour Duncan single coils that sound so nice..

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: Low

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez Iceman
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock pickups
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 60 (neck position)
Artists using this pickup: James Hetfield, Kirk Hammet, Kerry King, Max Calvera, Zack Wilde
You musical style(s): Metal, blues, funk
Reason for pickup change: Got sick of the cheesy stock "shred" tone. Wanted more guts and harmonics.

Perceived output level: The output level was at least TWICE as loud as the stock pickup. Excellent feel when guitar volume cranked all the way up or turned down.
Tone: Very crunchy. The treble and mids are awesome, but if you're looking for real thick lows, you won't find them. Excellent balance of tone, though
Sonic evaluation: Crate Blue Voodoo 120 Head
Blue Voodoo 4x12 Cabinet

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: I play mostly thrash/metal combined with blues and funk. The 81 is outstanding for these styles. While the 81 is mostly regarded for metal, I think it's perfect for anyone wanting tonal balance and clarity.

Comments: I've been playing for only three years, but when I first heard it in my
Iceman, I knew I was in love. The clarity of the 81 GREATLY outdoes
the muddiness of coil pickups. I also have an EMG 60 in the neck which
also does a great job. I'm disappointed with the Iceman at this point
and am going to get a Jackson Rhodes and the 81's are going right in.
The only thing about the 81 that people have accused it of is sounding "artificial" as
opposed to the natural coil pickups. And I'll agree that the internal
sheilding and ground within the pickup (hence the term "active system")
does sound a bit dry, I don't care. The thing I love most about the
81 is that when you hit the strings, you can actually hear EVERY
string being played. It's amazing. If you don't care what your guitar
sounds like, go buy a Duncan or Dimarzio. But if you are a discriminating
musician like me and want the best highs, lows, and mids go get an EMG
81. You will NOT be disapointed. And if you are........sue me.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: Impedance: 10 Kohms

Model of guitar or bass: Old Ibanez RX
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock pickup
Other pickups on guitar: stock humbucker at neck, and stock single coil in the middle
Artists using this pickup: Jamez Hetfield, Kirk Hammet, Zakk Wylde
You musical style(s): Metal, Hard Rock, Classic Rock. Some classical stuff...
Reason for pickup change: I was getting tired of the stock pickup sound, and since
this is my old axe, I decieded to mess around with it a bit,
And try out this pickup. I had heard great things about it.

Perceived output level: So damn hot it hurts to look at it...
Tone: pretty well balanced, bassy though.
Sonic evaluation: right now I am running it through shit, but I have head it through a good
setup, and plan to have a similar setup in the very near future.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: For Metal it is great. unsuitable for alternative crap.

Comments: I basically found such a great deal, I decieded to try it out... I really
like it, so I probably would buy it again. I have been playing a litttle
over a year, and my other axe is a Ibanez Satriani, which is still a
million times better than this one even with the 81. Remember, if you are
replacing passive pickups, actives need that battery, so make sure you have
room. I need a new amp to get my desired sound though...

Pickup features: ACTIVE HUMBUCKING
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: WASHBURN DIMEBAG DARRELL SIGNATURE GUITAR, DIMEBOLT FINISH
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: washburn eliminater's in the neck and bridge
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup: Kerry King,Jeff Haneman (slayer), Max cavalera (sepultura) Alot of death metal guitarists
You musical style(s): death metal, trash metal, power groove
Reason for pickup change: The stock washburn pickups sounded very thin and muddy. The emg-81's are have much more gain, and retain clarity even dropped b-tuning..
The 81's are perfect for the metal guitarist...these babies have a very distinct tone....also, these have alot of treble and shred like a razer. These pickups a HOT as hell...well except maybe for the dimarzio's evoltution.
Any ways, if u cover bands like slayer, pantera, deicide, cannibal corpse, this is the one for u. If u want more bass n less treble, then the emg-85's are your next best choice.
The only downfall of this pickups is that you haveto replace the 9 volt batter everyonce in a while.Secondly i wish emg made this pickup a little MORE cruNchY

Perceived output level: HOTTER THAN HELL, this thing MELTS
Tone: TREBly, retains alot of clarity
Sonic evaluation: IM using a marshall vs-100 head thru a boss metal zone pedal into a marshall 4x12. and a fender m-80 chorus head thru another marshall cab. i run it also into a digitech rp-6 and vox wah

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: MeTaL, but u get great clean sounds outa this too

Comments: i would buy it again
But i would like something with more crunch to the tone

Pickup features: high output active humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson Kelly KE-3
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: stock
Other pickups on guitar:
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammet, Zakk Wylde, Kerry King, James Hetfield
You musical style(s): metal, progressive rock, classic rock
Reason for pickup change: wanted a higher output pickup, the EMG's had long sustain and low impedance which was a definite plus

Perceived output level: hot enough to overdrive my amp with the gain turned to 0
Tone: very balanced, nice bass and highs, very nice mids
Sonic evaluation: Fender Ultimate Chorus

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: this pickup is just what I wanted, hot with killer sustain and awesome balance

Comments: I love the sound, but the sound in my head still needs a killer amp

Pickup features: active humbucker
Impedence or other specs: I have no idea

Model of guitar or bass: Jackson RR-4 pro
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: stock Jackson
Other pickups on guitar: stock Jackson neck
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammett, Kerry King
You musical style(s): thrash, progressive, death metal
Reason for pickup change: stock didn't have enough punch

Perceived output level: kicks stock pickup's ass..LOUD!
Tone: enough bass, low mids, nice treble
Sonic evaluation: running a Jackson though a Peavey Special 212

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: play a hell of alot of METAL...a match made in heaven ( or hell )

Comments: I will put this pickup in all my future guitars...I have been palying for 6 years and belive me...this is what I've been looking for..thankx EMG for making a killer pickup!!!

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: ??????

Model of guitar or bass: Gibson Explorer
Position: all positions
Pickup being replaced: None
Other pickups on guitar: 81 in the Neck
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammet? Hetfield
You musical style(s): Blues -->Metal
Reason for pickup change: None came in used 81 custom shop Explorer

Perceived output level: Hot, but then we all know that.
Tone: Good Lows and Highs very little mids. The Metal pickup of legend.
Sonic evaluation: These are in an 81 Explorer neck and bridge. Currently playing through a Johnson millennium amp.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: When I play metal this is what I use. These may be a bit tonaly challanged for less distorted more mellow music.

Comments: I have been playing for 19 years. If this guitar was lost or stolen, I would find something else with EMG 81's These are a must for Metal players!

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs:

Model of guitar or bass: Ibanez RG470
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Stock Ifinity 1
Other pickups on guitar: EMG SAV, EMG 85
Artists using this pickup: Kirk Hammet, James Hetfield, Kerry King, Zakk Wylde
You musical style(s): Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive Rock, Blues
Reason for pickup change: The stock pickups sounded very weak, no beef to them. Had uncontrollable feedback

Perceived output level: Extremely high output, a lot of balls. Strong enough to overdrive my clean channel. Sounds almost identical to the Kirk Hammet signature ESP.
Tone: Ideal for metal. Very balanced tone. Able to achieve squealing harmonics easily.
Sonic evaluation: I have an Ibanez RG 470 loaded with EMG's playing through a Digitech RP 12 into a 100 watt Crate 212 combo

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: For Metal I can't think of a better pickup. Works very well for any style

Comments: Would buy again in a heartbeat. The pots that it comes with suck ass! They're very fragile.

Pickup features: Active Humbucker
Impedence or other specs: Low impedance

Model of guitar or bass: JS-1
Position: bridge
Pickup being replaced: Dimarzio Fred (see review)
Other pickups on guitar: EMG 85
Artists using this pickup: Metallica, Zakk, Testament, Slayer, etc.
You musical style(s): Heavy/Progressive metal
Reason for pickup change: Fred was fizzy and middy

Perceived output level: About as hot as you can get
Tone: Very good balance between highs and lows (not many mids though)
Sonic evaluation: I am using an Ibanez JS-1 directly into a 5150 stack. It sounds like Satan lives in my amp!!! This is IT!!!
The sound is heavy as hell, but very balanced and smooth.

For which styles and positions is this pickup (un)suitable: Heavy/Progressive metal...this is IT!!! Nothing else will do

Comments: I only payed $25 for it, so this was the deal of the century. These are the only pickups I will ever use....Just watch out for the cheap-ass pots that EMG includes (I bought a few extra pot sets...only $5 a set)