EMG 81 Active Humbucker Guitar Pickup
The EMG-81 is a high output pickup designed especially for the lead guitarist. It was actually developed in 1979 along with the EMG-58. Like most EMG's, it wasn't heavily advertised until 1981. The EMG-81 has the familiar U-shaped humbucking structure but replaces the pole pieces with steel bars and a smaller ceramic magnet. The EMG-81 is at its best for high volume overdrive. It has become the choice for metal and extreme players alike, Kirk Hammett from Metallica and Kerry King of Slayer to name only two.
If you're looking for exceptional qualities in a high output pickup, the EMG-81 is the one. Two 81's are featured in Kirk Hammett's Signature ESP Guitar, the KH-4. The EMG Pro-Series KH-21 also features Kirk�s usual dual 81 set-up for retrofit into any Stratocaster* style guitar.
Sound Samples
EMG 81 Pickup (Clean)
EMG 81 Pickup (Dirty Lead)
