EMG2546 vs EMG4836 — Compare
EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black vs EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
The Kerry King 81/85 is an active set with tight, high-output aggression and noise-killing electronics ideal for drop-tuned metal and extreme gain; the Marty Friedman is a passive set with natural dynamics and harmonic richness that balances articulate definition with smooth sustain for progressive and lead-focused players. Choose Kerry King for maximum tightness and noise rejection in extreme metal; choose Marty Friedman for organic responsiveness and tonal flexibility.
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EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black | EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249.00 | $249.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Active electronics eliminate noise floor completely (–100 dBV), critical for high-gain metal and drop tunings
- ✓ Tight, focused low end from ceramic/steel magnet bridge pickup designed specifically for articulate palm-muted riffs
- ✓ Included PA2 booster and solderless Quik-Connect system ready to install immediately
- ✓ 1500-hour battery life and extended 27V headroom option for long sessions and maximum dynamic range
Why choose EMG Marty Friedman Passive Humbucker Pickup Set in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery, no noise floor concerns, true plug-and-play longevity
- ✓ Alnico 5 magnets deliver natural harmonic richness and organic sustain missing from active systems
- ✓ Four-conductor solderless wiring enables coil-splitting for expanded tonal palette beyond single voicing
- ✓ Smooth, clear high-end response suits lead work and studio precision without overly aggressive character
Frequently asked questions
Which set handles drop tunings better?
The Kerry King 81/85 is specifically engineered for drop tunings and extreme metal, with the bridge pickup's tight, focused character and high output designed to maintain articulation and control when tuned down. The Marty Friedman, while versatile and capable in lower tunings, is voiced more for balanced responsiveness across standard and alternate tunings rather than extreme drops.
Do I need to replace my potentiometers or wiring?
The Kerry King 81/85 includes dual 25k volume/tone potentiometers and all required wiring harnesses for complete installation out of the box. The Marty Friedman uses four-conductor solderless wiring for flexibility but does not specify included potentiometers, so compatibility with your existing electronics should be verified before purchase.
What's the practical difference between active and passive noise performance?
The Kerry King 81/85 active system maintains a –100 dBV noise floor, which is essential for high-gain metal tones where even minor hum becomes audible. The Marty Friedman passive design has a higher noise floor typical of passive humbuckers but is still professional-grade; the trade-off is no battery dependency and natural, uncolored harmonic response.
Which is better for studio recording?
Both are used in professional studios. The Kerry King 81/85 excels in heavy metal and hard rock sessions where tight, articulate tone and noise-free recording are priorities. The Marty Friedman's natural dynamics and coil-split capability make it more versatile for diverse session work spanning progressive, lead, and varied hard rock styles.