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EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White vs EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 85X is built for high-gain metal and hard rock with aggressive, punchy midrange and maximum clarity, while the EMG 60X offers versatility across genres with warmer, more balanced tone and defined highs. Choose the 85X if you play heavy music and need aggressive articulation; choose the 60X if you record, perform live across styles, or want a pickup that handles both clean and overdriven tones dynamically.
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EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White
EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White | EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $125.00 | $125.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White
- ✓ Higher output voltage (4.00V string / 8.50V strum) for aggressive, cutting tones in high-gain settings
- ✓ Alnico V magnet delivers punchy midrange and sustain optimized for metal and drop tunings
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (1.91 kHz) focuses energy in the sweet spot for heavy rhythm and lead clarity
- ✓ Proven workhorse for extreme genres with noise-free performance at any stage volume
Why choose EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Lower output voltage (3.00V string / 8.00V strum) provides headroom for dynamic range and clean tones without breakup
- ✓ Ceramic magnet and higher resonant frequency (2.28 kHz) deliver defined highs and articulate mids across multiple genres
- ✓ Balanced warmth makes it equally suited for studio recording, home sessions, and live performance
- ✓ More versatile character works with extended-range guitars and pedalboard setups without coloration
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for metal and hard rock?
The EMG 85X is specifically designed for metal and hard rock. Its Alnico V magnet, higher output, and lower resonant frequency (1.91 kHz) deliver the punchy midrange and aggressive articulation those genres demand. The 60X is more balanced and versatile, making it less ideal for extreme high-gain applications.
Can I use either pickup for studio recording?
The EMG 60X is optimized for studio use because its lower output and higher headroom reduce unwanted breakup and allow dynamic recording across clean and overdriven tones. The 85X can work in the studio for heavy music but is less forgiving on dynamics.
What is the main spec difference between these pickups?
The 85X has higher output (4.00V vs. 3.00V on single strings), an Alnico V magnet with a lower resonant frequency (1.91 kHz), and is optimized for high-gain aggression. The 60X has a ceramic magnet, higher resonant frequency (2.28 kHz), and is designed for balanced, versatile tone across genres.
Do both pickups require soldering to install?
No. Both the 85X and 60X include the solderless Quik-Connect system with everything needed for drop-in installation—no soldering required. Both also support 9V battery power with 3000-hour battery life.