EMG3558 vs EMG3601 — Compare
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG 40JX 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 85 is a guitar humbucker for rock and metal players seeking aggressive tone, while the EMG 40JX is a bass pickup engineered for tight, articulate 5-string bass playing. These are completely different instrument categories—choose based on whether you're outfitting a guitar or bass.
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EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
EMG 40JX 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | EMG 40JX 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ High output (3.1 V string, 4.5 V strum) cuts through dense mixes
- ✓ Long shaft design fits Les Paul-style guitars directly
- ✓ Solderless installation with included wiring kit and battery clip
- ✓ Up to 3000 hours battery life from single 9V battery
Why choose EMG 40JX 5-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Purpose-built for 5-string bass with proper extended housing dimensions
- ✓ Active X Series preamp with 25k volume and tone potentiometers
- ✓ Ceramic bar magnet design delivers tight low end without excess noise
- ✓ Solderless Quik-Connect wiring accelerates installation
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the EMG 85 on a bass or the 40JX on a guitar?
No. The EMG 85 is a guitar humbucker with a long shaft design for Les Paul-style guitar cavities. The EMG 40JX is a bass pickup with a 4-inch extended housing sized for 5-string bass configurations. They are not interchangeable.
Which pickup needs a battery and how long does it last?
Both are active pickups and require a 9V battery. The EMG 85 is rated for up to 3000 hours of typical use. Battery life specs for the EMG 40JX are not provided in the available information.
Are these pickups hard to install?
No. Both feature EMG's Quik-Connect solderless wiring system to eliminate traditional solder joints. The EMG 85 comes with a complete wiring kit including volume/tone controls, output jack, and battery clip. Installation time is significantly reduced compared to traditional pickups.
What genres suit each pickup?
The EMG 85 excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive music with drop tunings, delivering aggressive articulate tone. The EMG 40JX is voiced for funk, progressive bass lines, and studio sessions where tight articulation and extended frequency response matter.