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EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black vs EMG TX System Active Prewired Pickup Set in Red
The Kerry King 81/85 is a high-output humbucker set engineered specifically for metal and aggressive genres, while the TX System is a Telecaster-optimized single-coil active set designed for versatility across recording, practice, and gigging. Choose the Kerry King for dedicated drop-tuned metal tone; choose the TX System if you play Telecaster and want modern active convenience across multiple styles.
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EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
EMG TX System Active Prewired Pickup Set in Red
Specs side by side
| EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black | EMG TX System Active Prewired Pickup Set in Red | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249.00 | $239.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG Kerry King 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
- ✓ Dual-humbucker design with tight low end and high output optimized for metal and drop tunings
- ✓ Warm neck response (EMG-85) paired with articulate bridge clarity (EMG-81)
- ✓ Includes PA2 20 dB gain booster for extended headroom
- ✓ Professional-grade noise floor and dynamic range across fretboard
Why choose EMG TX System Active Prewired Pickup Set in Red
- ✓ Prewired Telecaster-specific configuration—no routing or body modification needed
- ✓ Completely solderless installation with simple cable connections only
- ✓ Transparent, articulate single-coil character works across genres beyond metal
- ✓ Lower output (1.00V string response) maintains clarity in clean and moderate-gain settings
Frequently asked questions
What guitar types do these fit?
The Kerry King 81/85 is a humbucker set that fits standard dual-humbucker routing on guitars like Les Pauls, SGs, and superstrats with humbucker cavities. The TX System is prewired specifically for Telecaster body cavities and cannot be adapted to other guitar types without significant modification.
Can I use the TX System for metal?
The TX System's lower output (1.00V string response vs. Kerry King's 3.00V) and single-coil character make it less suited for tight, aggressive metal tones. It excels in cleaner, more transparent contexts like studio recording and moderate-gain playing.
Which has easier installation?
Both are solderless, but the TX System requires zero soldering and only cable connections, making it the absolute easiest plug-and-play option. The Kerry King uses EMG Quik-Connect solderless connectivity but involves more component assembly and routing considerations depending on your guitar.
What's the output difference and why does it matter?
The Kerry King bridge pickup outputs 3.00V single-note (4.50V strum) for aggressive, gain-friendly tone; the TX System outputs 1.00V string response (3.00V strum) for clean, articulate definition. Higher output drives amp saturation earlier; lower output preserves transparency at high gain levels.