EMG 808X 8-String Guitar Pickup User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the user manual for your new EMG 808X 8-String Guitar Pickup. This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your pickup. The EMG 808X is designed to deliver exceptional tone and presence for 8-string guitars, featuring Alnico V loaded, wide aperture coils and the advanced X series preamp.

A key feature of the EMG 808X is its solderless wiring system, which simplifies the installation process, allowing for easy setup and modification.

Figure 1: An overhead view of the EMG 808X 8-String Guitar Pickup in red. The pickup has a rectangular shape with a textured matte finish and the 'EMG' logo visible on one end.

2. Setup and Installation

The EMG 808X utilizes a solderless wiring system for straightforward installation. Before beginning, ensure your guitar is unplugged and the strings are loosened or removed to access the pickup cavity.

2.1 Required Tools

• Small Phillips head screwdriver
• Wire cutters/strippers (if modifying existing wiring)
• Multimeter (optional, for checking connections)

2.2 Installation Steps (Solderless System)

1. Prepare the Cavity: Carefully remove your old pickup and clean the pickup cavity.
2. Connect the Pickup: The EMG 808X comes with pre-attached quick-connect cables. Connect these cables to the appropriate inputs on your EMG solderless bus board or existing EMG wiring harness. Ensure all connections are secure and fully seated.
3. Power Connection: If installing into a new system, connect the battery clip to a 9V battery. Ensure the battery is fresh for optimal performance.
4. Grounding: Verify all grounding connections are properly made to prevent hum and noise.
5. Mount the Pickup: Place the EMG 808X into the pickup cavity and secure it using the provided screws and springs. Adjust the pickup height to your preference.
6. Test Connections: Before reassembling your guitar, plug it into an amplifier and gently tap the pickup with a non-metallic object (e.g., a screwdriver handle) to confirm signal output.
7. Reassemble: Once confirmed, re-string your guitar and perform final adjustments.

For detailed wiring diagrams specific to your guitar's configuration, please refer to the official EMG website or consult a qualified guitar technician.

3. Operating Your EMG 808X Pickup

The EMG 808X is designed to provide a powerful, articulate, and dynamic tone for 8-string guitars. Its unique design addresses the common issue of muddy low F# strings, offering clarity and definition across the entire frequency spectrum.

3.1 Tonal Characteristics

• Clarity and Definition: The Alnico V loaded, wide aperture coils ensure that even the lowest notes retain their harmonic character and articulation.
• Balanced Response: Provides a balanced output across all strings, from the deep low F# to the articulate upper register.
• Dynamic Control: The X series preamp offers increased headroom, allowing for a more responsive and dynamic playing experience. This means the pickup reacts sensitively to your picking attack, from soft nuances to aggressive riffs.
• Versatility: Equally effective in both bridge and neck positions, the 808X can be used to achieve a wide range of tones suitable for various musical genres.

3.2 Optimizing Performance

To get the best performance from your EMG 808X, experiment with pickup height adjustments. Lowering the pickup can result in a more open, less compressed sound, while raising it can increase output and sustain. Adjust to find the optimal balance for your playing style and guitar.

4. Maintenance and Care

Proper care will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your EMG 808X pickup.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the pickup cover. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish.
• Battery Replacement: As an active pickup, the EMG 808X requires a 9V battery. Replace the battery when you notice a decrease in output, loss of clarity, or distortion. A fresh battery is crucial for maintaining the pickup's dynamic range and tone.
• Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the pickup to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
• Physical Damage: Protect the pickup from impacts or sharp objects that could scratch or dent the cover.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your EMG 808X pickup, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

If these solutions do not resolve the issue, please contact EMG customer support or an authorized service center.

6. Specifications

• Model: EMG 808X
• Type: Active Humbucker
• Magnet Type: Alnico V
• Coil Design: Wide Aperture
• Preamp: X Series
• Wiring: Solderless Quick-Connect System
• Power: 9V Battery (required for active operation)
• Item Weight: 0.01 ounces (approximate)
• ASIN: B081GCYFNV
• Date First Available: December 6, 2019

7. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information regarding your EMG 808X pickup, please refer to the official EMG website or the warranty card included with your product. Warranty terms typically cover manufacturing defects for a specified period from the date of purchase.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or to inquire about replacement parts, please visit the official EMG website or contact their customer service department directly.

Official EMG Website: www.emgpickups.com