Another great thing about the EMG-81 humbucker is it's quiet. Perfect if you're the only guitarist in the band, and need to switch from rhythm to lead and still keep the band moving. The ceramic magnet in combination with wide aperture steel poles lend a quick attack but the tone stays nice and fat at the same time. Distortion during lead passages is consistent, sustain is long and the breakup fades smoothly. If you're looking for exceptional qualities in a rock pickup, the EMG-81 is the one. Whether you're playing power rock 'n' roll, or overdriving your amp, there's a razor sharp attack, and incredible sustain for brilliant soloing. The 81 is at its best for high volume overdrive and amps with a master volume. The EMG-81 pickup is a high-output pickup designed especially for the lead guitarist. Under any condition, the humbucker responds accurately to your technique. The EMG-85 works best if you like the natural distortion that comes from overdriving the front end of your amp. The midrange has great definition and doesn't get foggy or muddy in the rhythm position. It's a perfect choice as a rhythm pickup in combination with an 81 in the bridge. Because of a more natural tone, it works great as a rhythm and blues pickup because it has loads of output but isn't muddy. The 85 uses two Alnico magnet-loaded coils with a wide aperture to maintain a beefy low end and a fatter top end. Details about the EMGs onboardAlthough the EMG-85 pickup has more measurable output than the 81, its frequency response and string interface are different. Black satin hardware includes Grover tuners and locking tune-o-matic bridge. From Ozzy Osbourne, Pride and Glory, and now Black Label Society, Zakk has always used EMG active pickups and you'll find a pair onboard in the time-tested combination of EMG 85/81 that has helped define Zakk's sound. radius with 22 jumbo frets, just the way Zakk likes it. The Barbarian offers the player one of Zakk's most elegant designs featuring a solid mahogany body, quilted maple top, and a set 3-piece maple neck. With nordic spirit this double cutaway is ready to seize the stage. The Wylde Audio Barbarian electric guitar is part of the first wave of models to come from this new company. It's perhaps no surprise that he's now going from making great music to making great guitars at the head of his own company. Full specs: A distinctive model with active EMG pickups and signature features.With scorching riffs and remarkable stage presence, Zakk Wylde has earned his reputation as heavy metal's premier lead guitarist. Top quality components - black satin hardware, EMG 81/85 pickups, Grover Tuners, set neck, made in Korea. Near mint condition, two tiny dings in the body can't see in photos clearly. Item: 124674516571 Wylde Audio Barbarian Raw Top Korean Psychic Bullseye Zakk Ozzy EMGs.