EMG4322 vs EMG4323 — Compare
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Both are EMG 85X active humbuckers with identical core specs (1.87 kHz resonance, 9V battery, 3000-hour life, solderless install), but they differ in finish and output voltage specifications. The Black Chrome suits players prioritizing maximum headroom (4.5V strum output), while the Brushed Black Chrome offers a premium aesthetic with RMS-based output ratings (1.25V RMS) and is marketed slightly toward fusion players alongside metal and rock.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Higher peak output voltage (4.5V strum) for extended headroom in extreme high-gain settings
- ✓ Classic Black Chrome finish
- ✓ String-and-strum output measurements provide clear dynamic range reference
Why choose EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Brushed Black Chrome finish adds visual refinement and modern appeal
- ✓ RMS and peak voltage specs (1.25V RMS, 1.75V peak) align with industry standard measurement
- ✓ Explicitly suited for fusion alongside metal and hard rock
Frequently asked questions
Are the actual tone and performance identical?
Both use Alnico V magnets, 1.87 kHz resonant frequency, 10K ohm output impedance, and solderless wiring. The output voltage specifications differ in how they're measured, but real-world tone should be nearly identical across both models.
Which has higher output?
Product A lists 4.5V strum output. Product B lists 1.25V RMS with 1.75V peak. RMS and peak measurements are not directly comparable to the strum voltage standard, making direct comparison difficult, but Product A appears optimized for maximum peak headroom.
Do these work in both bridge and neck positions?
Product B explicitly states compatibility with bridge or neck position. Product A does not specify position restrictions, though EMG 85X pickups are typically versatile across positions.
What is the battery life and power draw?
Both deliver 3000 hours of battery life on a single 9V battery. Product A draws 80 mA; Product B draws 80 microamps. This discrepancy in specification notation is unusual, but if accurate, Product B would have significantly extended battery life.