EMG2921 vs EMG2984 — Compare
EMG 85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold vs EMG PX Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 85 is a guitar humbucker for high-gain metal and rock, while the EMG PX is a bass pickup for modern funk and slap styles. Choose the 85 if you play electric guitar and need articulate high-output tone for dense mixes; choose the PX if you play bass and want punchy, dynamic response across finger and slap techniques.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold | EMG PX Active Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Humbucker form-factor with Alnico 5 magnet for warm, aggressive guitar tone
- ✓ 1870 Hz resonant frequency emphasizes upper midrange articulation and cutting power
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life with -101 dBV noise floor for ultra-quiet high-gain applications
Why choose EMG PX Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Single-coil P-style format fits standard bass configurations seamlessly
- ✓ Dual output modes: 2.00V finger/thumb and 8.50V thump for technique versatility
- ✓ 3.20 kHz resonant frequency delivers articulate midrange presence ideal for slap and modern rock bass
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these pickups interchangeably in the same instrument?
No. The EMG 85 is a guitar humbucker pickup, while the EMG PX is a bass pickup in P-style single-coil format. They are designed for entirely different instruments and mounting configurations.
Which has a lower noise floor?
The EMG PX is quieter at -106 dB output noise (measured at 60 Hz), compared to the EMG 85's -101 dBV specification. Both are extremely quiet for active pickups.
How do the output levels compare?
The EMG 85 delivers 3.10V RMS with 4.50V peak output for guitars. The EMG PX offers 2.00V for finger/thumb playing and 8.50V for slap thump on bass, making direct comparison difficult since they serve different instruments and playing techniques.
What is the battery life for each?
Both pickups deliver 3000 hours of battery life per 9V cell, with identical 80 µA current draw specifications.