EMG4594 vs EMG4620 — Compare
EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 60X is a versatile 6-string humbucker built for balanced articulation across rock and metal styles, while the EMG 85-8X is purpose-built for 8-string extended-range guitars with aggressive output and tight low-end control. Choose the 60X if you play standard tuning; choose the 85-8X if you need an 8-string pickup for djent, progressive metal, or drop tunings.
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EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Long shaft design fits standard 6-string guitar cavities
- ✓ Lower output (3.00V single / 8.00V strum) maintains dynamic range without over-compression
- ✓ Balanced midrange (2.28 kHz) suits rhythm and lead clarity across multiple genres
- ✓ Included tone control and split shaft volume system for immediate tweaking
Why choose EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Specifically engineered for 8-string guitar extended-range tuning
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver tighter low-end presence than ceramic construction
- ✓ Higher output per string (3.10V) and aggressive gain staging for heavy playing
- ✓ Superior battery life at 3000 hours with just 80 microamps draw
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 85-8X in a standard 6-string guitar?
No. The 85-8X is engineered for 8-string guitar routing and pole spacing. The 60X is the correct choice for standard 6-string instruments.
Which pickup has higher output?
The 85-8X delivers 3.10V per string and 4.50V when strummed, versus the 60X at 3.00V single note and 8.00V strummed. They are close, but the 85-8X is optimized for aggressive gain staging on extended-range instruments.
Are both pickups solderless to install?
Yes. Both use EMG's Quik-Connect solderless wiring system, making installation straightforward for beginners through professionals.
What genres are each pickup best suited for?
The 60X excels in rock, metal, hard rock, and studio recording with balanced tone. The 85-8X is purpose-built for metal, djent, and progressive styles on 8-string guitars where extended range and tight articulation are essential.