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EMG 81 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 81 is a high-output aggressive pickup designed for metal and hard rock, while the EMG 85 offers more controlled, articulate tone suited to studio and progressive work. Choose the 81 if you want maximum punch and sustain in high-gain settings; pick the 85 if clarity and versatility across bridge and neck positions matter more.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 81 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Ceramic/steel magnet delivers aggressive, punchy character ideal for metal and hard rock
- ✓ 1.63 KHz resonant peak emphasizes mids and cutting highs for high-gain clarity
- ✓ Maximum output energy for sustain and presence in distorted applications
Why choose EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Alnico V magnet produces smoother, more musical harmonic response
- ✓ 1.87 KHz resonant peak offers focused midrange without ear fatigue
- ✓ Solderless installation saves wiring time compared to traditional setups
- ✓ Works equally well in bridge or neck position for flexible placement
Frequently asked questions
What's the practical difference in output between these two?
Both deliver 3V (string) and 4.5V (strum) under test conditions, but the 81's ceramic/steel magnet produces more aggressive harmonic coloration, while the 85's Alnico V design yields smoother, more controlled response. Output voltage is nearly identical; character and frequency response differ.
Which one should I use in the neck position?
The EMG 85 is specifically designed to work well in either bridge or neck position. The EMG 81 is primarily optimized for bridge placement in high-gain contexts, though it can be used in neck if you want aggressive tone there.
How long does the battery last in each?
Both pickups deliver approximately 3000 hours of battery life at 9V, so battery maintenance is essentially equivalent between the two models.
Which has less noise?
The EMG 85 measures -101 dB noise at 60 Hz versus the EMG 81's -100 dB—a negligible real-world difference. Both are exceptionally quiet for active pickups.