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EMG 58X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

The 58X offers warm clarity and touch sensitivity across all positions, while the 85X prioritizes aggressive midrange and note definition with a long-shaft design for standard cavities. Choose the 58X for versatile positioning and responsive dynamics; pick the 85X for maximum midrange punch and drop-tuning clarity in fixed bridge positions.

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EMG 58X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$139.00
View EMG 58X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$139.00
View EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

Specs side by side

EMG 58X Active Humbucker Pickup in ChromeEMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Price$139.00$139.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 58X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ X Series preamp adds extended headroom and touch sensitivity for dynamic responsiveness
  • ✓ Bridge or any position ready—flexible placement options
  • ✓ Warm with clarity tone prevents muddiness even at extreme gain
  • ✓ Solderless installation with all wiring components included

Why choose EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ Long-shaft design fits standard humbucker cavities without modification
  • ✓ Alnico V magnet and 1.87 kHz resonant peak deliver aggressive midrange and note definition
  • ✓ Exceptional battery life—approximately 3000 hours per 9V cell
  • ✓ Split shaft volume/active tone control set included for complete retrofit
Bottom line: Choose the 58X if you need flexible positioning and responsive touch dynamics across your guitar. Choose the 85X if you have a standard cavity, prioritize midrange aggression and note clarity in drop tunings, and want maximum battery efficiency.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup fits a standard humbucker cavity without modification?

The EMG 85X is designed with a long-shaft configuration that fits standard humbucker cavities directly. The 58X does not specify cavity compatibility in the provided description.

Which pickup is better for aggressive metal and drop tunings?

Both are engineered for metal and drop tunings. The 85X emphasizes aggressive midrange and note definition at high gain; the 58X delivers high output with controlled compression and warmth. The 85X's midrange voicing may cut through denser mixes more assertively.

What are the installation differences?

Both use solderless systems. The 58X includes 25k potentiometers and a complete cable assembly. The 85X includes a split shaft volume/active tone control set and battery clip set. The 85X typically requires fewer external components for retrofit installation.

How does battery life compare?

The 85X provides approximately 3000 hours per 9V cell. The 58X battery life is not specified in the available information.

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