EMG3418 vs EMG3467 — Compare
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold vs EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG 85 delivers a balanced, articulate tone with refined highs and natural clarity suited for modern rock and studio work, while the EMG 81 is a high-output aggressive pickup engineered for metal and drop-tuning applications. Choose the 85 if you want versatility across multiple genres; choose the 81 if you prioritize maximum output and high-gain tightness.
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EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold | EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Higher RMS output (3.10 V vs 1.25 V) for better signal strength and mix presence
- ✓ Refined high-frequency response and natural focus ideal for studio recording
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (1870 Hz) provides warmer, more balanced midrange
- ✓ Solderless 2-wire plus battery connector requires zero modification
Why choose EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ 2.25 kHz resonance frequency generates controlled midrange aggression for high-gain tones
- ✓ Ceramic magnets and close aperture coils deliver signature articulate attack and compression
- ✓ 19mm long shaft specifically designed for Les Paul–style guitars
- ✓ Chrome and stainless steel build offers durable, consistent tonal character
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has higher output?
The EMG 85 delivers 3.10 V RMS output compared to the EMG 81's 1.25 V RMS, making the 85 significantly hotter and more suitable for driving effects and mixing.
Are these pickups suitable for jazz or blues?
No—both pickups are optimized for metal, hard rock, and modern rock. Their aggressive character and high gain handling make them poorly suited to jazz and blues styles that benefit from warmth and dynamic response.
What guitar platforms are these designed for?
The EMG 85 uses a standard humbucker long shaft compatible with most platforms. The EMG 81 features a 19mm long shaft specifically engineered for Les Paul–style guitars with closer aperture coil spacing.
How do the tone characters differ?
The EMG 85 emphasizes balanced clarity and refined highs with a natural focus, ideal for cutting through mixes. The EMG 81 prioritizes controlled midrange aggression and articulate attack with reduced feedback, tuned for maximum high-gain definition.