Pricing and availability
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $289
High-end/Boutique
$99
$200+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Elevate your guitar's performance to rock legend status with the EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett pre-wired pickguard set. Designed in collaboration with the Metallica lead guitarist himself, this iconic setup combines Kirk's signature EMG-81 humbucker with two EMG-S single-coil pickups. Whether you're shredding blistering solos or laying down rhythm with surgical precision, this set delivers a tight, controlled sound that's as iconic as Hammett's own tone.
The EMG KH20 is ready to mount straight out of the box, featuring a sleek, custom pearl white pickguard with contrasting black knobs. The pickups are equipped with ceramic magnets, ensuring a high-output, razor-sharp attack and long sustain—perfect for the modern guitarist seeking versatility and power. The five-position switch, along with master volume and tone controls, offers a wide range of tonal possibilities, from the classic single-coil shimmer to a high-gain metal crunch.
EMG's Quick-Connect system makes installation a breeze, so you can spend less time fiddling with wires and more time playing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic hobbyist, this set is engineered to unleash your guitar's full potential.
Key Features:
- Complete pre-wired assembly on a custom pearl white pickguard
- EMG-81 humbucker at the bridge for high-output and long sustain
- Two EMG-S single-coil pickups in neck and middle positions with ceramic magnets
- Five-position switch for versatile tonal options
- Master volume and tone controls
- Black potentiometer knobs for a sleek look
- Designed for easy installation with EMG's Quick-Connect system
Product specs
| Instrument | Stratocaster |
| Type | 1 x EMG 81 Humbucker, 2 x EMG S Single-coil |
| Configuration | HSS Pickguard Set |
| Active/Passive | Active |
| Magnet Material | Ceramic/Steel |
| Number of Conductors | 2 wire plus battery |
| DC Resistance | 10K |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Covering | Covered |
FAQs
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What is included in the EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett Active Pickup Prewired Guitar Pickguard Set?
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The EMG KH20 set includes a prewired pickguard featuring one EMG 81 humbucker and two EMG S single-coil pickups, specifically configured for a Stratocaster guitar in an HSS setup.
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Are the EMG KH20 pickups suitable for metal music?
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Yes, the EMG KH20 pickups are ideal for metal music, offering a powerful and aggressive tone with tight searing harmonics, thanks to the active EMG 81 humbucker and ceramic/steel magnet construction.
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Do the EMG KH20 pickups require a battery?
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Yes, the EMG KH20 pickups are active and require a battery to power the preamp and deliver their signature high-output sound.
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Can the EMG KH20 pickguard set be installed on any Stratocaster guitar?
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The EMG KH20 pickguard set is designed for standard 6-string Stratocaster guitars. Ensure your guitar's body cavity can accommodate the active electronics and battery compartment.
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What is the benefit of using EMG's active pickups in the KH20 set?
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EMG's active pickups in the KH20 set provide a higher output, reduced noise, and a more dynamic range, making them suitable for achieving Kirk Hammett's signature tone.
Videos
Eko Ljatifi
VGS RoadCruiser VST-110 with EMG KH20 - Kirk Hammett
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional tone versatility, from metal to blues, with minimal hum or noise
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Smooth and responsive volume and tone controls enhance playability
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Easy installation with solderless, pre-wired setup; perfect for DIY upgrades
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Active pickups provide powerful, clean, and dynamic sound
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Neck pickup delivers a clean low end even at high gain
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Five-way switch offers diverse tonal options, expanding sonic possibilities
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Fits easily into many guitar models, notably Mexican Stratocasters, with minimal modification
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High build quality ensures long-term durability and reliability
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Excellent clarity and definition, even with heavy distortion
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Humbucker in bridge position offers thick, chunky tones ideal for rock and metal
CONS
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Incompatibility with some guitar models without modification
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Lack of black pickguard option limits aesthetic choices
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High price point might deter budget-conscious buyers
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Battery replacement can be inconvenient for some users
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG KH20 Kirk Hammett.
Build quality
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The lack of 'f' stamp on the neck's backplate may indicate a Fender neck paired with a non-Fender body.
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Features and functionality
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The KH20 loaded pickguard is valued at $300 new, highlighting its significant contribution to the guitar's sound and value.
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A 9V battery can last between 2000 to 3000 playing hours with EMG pickups, provided the instrument cable is unplugged when not in use.
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The EMG 81 pickup is praised for its attack and mid-range punch, especially suitable for hard rock and metal genres.
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Comparisons
User experience
Setup and maintenance
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There is ample space in a Strat's control cavity for a 9V battery, eliminating the need for routing when adding an EMG KH20 pickguard.
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Wrapping the battery in insulating tape or foam helps prevent potential short circuits within the control cavity.
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Owners recommend replacing stock saddles with GuitarFetish.com models and using 10-gauge strings for optimal playability on MIM Strats.
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Adjustments to neck, intonation, and action, along with a guidebook, are recommended for achieving a better setup on MIM Strats.
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Mods and upgrades
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
40
Nice pickups if you like a bridge humbucker.
I've had this set of pickups for almost 20 years in a Mexican Stratocaster. I've learned a lot about what I want from my guitar tone in this time (specifically: at least a humbucker in the neck position), but I'm ultimately just playing as a hobby. The EMGs have held up beautifully in that time.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.