Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $99

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$99

$200+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "EMG SAV". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 3, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the full potential of your electric guitar with the EMG SAV pickup, a masterful creation born from a collaboration with the legendary Steve Lukather. This overwound pickup is engineered for those seeking a punchy attack and high output without compromising on tonal richness. The innovative design incorporates hidden Alnico 5 pole pieces, creating a sleek, uniform aesthetic that doesn't just look good—it's built to perform.

Inspired by Lukather's signature sound, the EMG SAV utilizes the classic SA preamp, ensuring that you get that unmistakable EMG clarity and sustain. The flat pole pieces are strategically positioned to bring the pickup closer to the strings, delivering enhanced output and a more aggressive tonal edge. Whether you're shredding solos or laying down rhythm tracks, this pickup promises to deliver a sound that's as dynamic and expressive as your playing style.

But it's not just about power; it's about precision and versatility. With its Quik-Connect system, installation is a breeze, allowing you to effortlessly swap out components and customize your sound. The included prewired control set with volume, tone controls, and a 5-way switch gives you the flexibility to experiment and find your unique voice.

Elevate your guitar's performance with the EMG SAV, where innovation meets artistry in every note.

Key Features:

  • Overwound design for high output and punchy attack
  • Hidden Alnico 5 pole pieces for a sleek look
  • Classic SA preamp for signature EMG sound
  • Flat pole pieces for closer proximity to strings
  • Easy installation with EMG's Quik-Connect system
  • Includes prewired control set with volume, 2 tone controls, and 5-way switch
  • Comes with output jack, battery clip, screws, and springs

Product specs

Brand EMG
Model SAV/SET-B Active Alnico V Flat Single Coil Set
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Guitar Pickups

FAQs

What type of pickups are the EMG SAV?

The EMG SAV pickups are active single-coil pickups featuring an Alnico V magnet, designed to deliver a classic Stratocaster sound with modern enhancements.

Are EMG SAV pickups suitable for high-gain music styles?

Yes, EMG SAV pickups are well-suited for high-gain music styles, providing clarity and noise reduction due to their active design, making them ideal for rock and metal genres.

How does the EMG SAV compare to traditional single-coil pickups?

The EMG SAV offers a quieter, more powerful output than traditional single-coil pickups, thanks to its active circuitry, which reduces noise and enhances signal clarity.

What is the battery life for EMG SAV pickups?

The EMG SAV pickups have an approximate battery life of 1000 hours, depending on usage habits like unplugging the guitar when not in use.

Can the EMG SAV pickups be used in any electric guitar?

While the EMG SAV pickups can be installed in most electric guitars, they require space for a 9V battery and may need additional routing for active circuitry.

EMGSoundSamples

EMGSoundSamples

SAV Neck Lead

Video thumbnail for SAV Neck Lead by EMGSoundSamples

SAV Neck Lead

EMGSoundSamples

EMGSoundSamples

Video thumbnail for SAV Neck Clean by EMGSoundSamples

SAV Neck Clean

EMGSoundSamples

EMGSoundSamples

Video thumbnail for EMG SAV Set Demo by EMGtv

EMG SAV Set Demo

EMGtv

EMGtv

Video thumbnail for Active vs Passive Strat Pickups! EMG SAV and SV Demo and Comparison by Marvin Martelly

Active vs Passive Strat Pickups! EMG SAV and SV Demo and Comparison

Marvin Martelly

Marvin Martelly

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG SAV.

Comparisons

  • EMG SA pickups offer a lower midrange spike compared to SSL-1s, reducing the ice-pick high end typically associated with SSL-1s.

    Source
  • The EMG SAVs are often confused with the DG20 set, which is specifically designed for David Gilmour's tone.

    Source

User experience

  • An owner reports that adjusting EMG SA pickup heights can mitigate spikiness, achieving a more balanced tonal character.

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  • An owner noted that their set was previously owned by a tech who worked with Keith Urban, adding provenance and potential historical value.

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  • Users report that swapping strings and professional setup significantly improve playability and tone of budget guitars.

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Features and functionality

  • EMG SA pickups are described as having a thicker sound with less top end, making them suitable for bright guitars.

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Value and pricing

  • A 1997 set of EMG SAVs can be a good deal at $120 compared to their new price of around $250.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A guitar may have intonation issues if the nut height is incorrect, especially if notes are sharp when fretted.

    Source
  • Professional setup, including nut adjustment, is crucial before modifying pickups for better tonal quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider EMG S and SAV pickups for a versatile mix of metal and melodic tones.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Single coil pickups, like those in a Strat-style guitar, offer diverse tonal options, complementing humbucker-equipped guitars.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Maddie Rice uses EMG SAV

Maddie Rice

Guitarist

The Late Show Band

...
Verified via Maddie Rice

On her website Maddie states that she uses EMG SAVs: "I very happily endorse EMG pickups- I use EMG’s 57s and SAVs in my electrics".

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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