EMG 81 Active Guitar Humbucker Pickup Instruction Manual

Introduction

The EMG 81 is an active guitar humbucker pickup designed for high-output performance. It utilizes powerful ceramic magnets and close aperture coils to deliver a tone characterized by detailed intensity, significant high-end cut, and fluid sustain. This pickup is versatile and can be used in both bridge and neck positions, offering distinct tonal qualities for various musical applications.

Features

• Utilizes powerful ceramic magnets and close aperture coils.
• Designed for detailed intensity, incredible amounts of high-end cut, and fluid sustain.
• Optimized for bridge position to enhance lead tones, cutting through dense mixes.
• Provides a blistering sound when used in both neck and bridge positions.
• Compatible with classic 81/85 and versatile 81/60 pickup combinations.
• Features EMG's solderless installation system for easy setup.

What's in the Box

• 1 x EMG 81 Active Guitar Humbucker Pickup
• Installation hardware (screws, springs, wiring harness for solderless installation)

Setup and Installation

The EMG 81 pickup features a solderless installation system, simplifying the setup process. This allows for quick and easy swapping of pickups without the need for soldering equipment. Ensure your guitar is compatible with active pickups and has space for a 9V battery.

Image: Components of the EMG solderless installation kit, including potentiometers, output jack, battery clip, and various cables.

Installation Steps:

1. Prepare the Guitar: Carefully remove the existing strings and pickups from your guitar.
2. Mount the Pickup: Place the EMG 81 pickup into the desired position (bridge or neck) and secure it using the provided screws and springs.
3. Connect Wiring: Utilize the solderless wiring harness to connect the pickup to the potentiometers (volume/tone), output jack, and battery clip. Follow the wiring diagram provided with your specific EMG kit.
4. Install Battery: A 9V battery is required to power the active pickup. Connect the battery clip to a fresh 9V battery and secure it within the guitar's control cavity.
5. Test and Adjust: Re-string your guitar and test the pickup's functionality. Adjust pickup height as needed for optimal tone and output.

Operating the Pickup

The EMG 81 is an active humbucker, meaning it requires a 9V battery for operation. Its design provides a high-output signal with low noise, making it ideal for genres requiring clarity and power. The tone is characterized by a sharp attack, pronounced high-end, and extended sustain. When placed in the bridge position, it excels at cutting through a mix for lead guitar work. In combination with another EMG pickup in the neck position (such as an 85 or 60), it can produce a wide range of powerful and articulate sounds.

Maintenance

The primary maintenance for active EMG pickups involves replacing the 9V battery periodically. The lifespan of the battery depends on usage, but it is recommended to replace it when you notice a decrease in output or a change in tone quality. Always disconnect the guitar cable from the output jack when not in use to conserve battery life.

Troubleshooting

If you experience issues such as low output, distorted sound, or no sound from your EMG 81 pickup, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Check Battery: The most common cause of active pickup issues is a dead or low 9V battery. Replace the battery with a fresh one.
• Verify Connections: Ensure all solderless connections are secure and properly seated according to the wiring diagram.
• Inspect Cables: Check your guitar cable for any damage or faulty connections.
• Pickup Height: Incorrect pickup height can affect tone and output. Adjust the pickup height to find the optimal balance.

Specifications