EMG4598 vs EMG4599 — Compare
EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 81 emphasizes aggressive articulation and note separation with a lower 2.25 kHz resonance, while the EMG 85 offers a warmer, more versatile mid-focused character at 2.55 kHz that works equally well in bridge or neck position. Choose the 81 for maximum clarity and attack in extreme tunings; choose the 85 for balanced versatility across recording, live, and multi-position applications.
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EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Lower 2.25 kHz resonance delivers sharper articulation and defined note separation
- ✓ Optimized for aggressive metal and drop-tuning applications
- ✓ Peak clarity across all registers without warmth coloration
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Higher 2.55 kHz resonance provides warmer, mid-focused tone with articulate highs
- ✓ Versatile enough for bridge or neck positions in the same guitar
- ✓ Better suited to beginners while maintaining professional-grade performance
- ✓ Slightly lower noise floor (-89 dBV vs -91 dBV) in demanding recording scenarios
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup in both bridge and neck positions?
The EMG 85 is specifically described as equally at home in bridge or neck positions. The EMG 81 is marketed as a workhorse for demanding clarity and sustain but is not explicitly recommended for neck use; it excels as a bridge pickup in aggressive contexts.
What's the actual difference in output between these two?
Both share identical peak output (1.75V) and output impedance (10 kΩ). The difference lies in resonance frequency: the 81 at 2.25 kHz emphasizes upper midrange bite, while the 85 at 2.55 kHz sits higher for presence and definition. The 85 has a marginally better noise floor (-89 dBV vs -91 dBV).
Which is better for high-gain recording?
The EMG 85 is explicitly listed for studio sessions and high-gain recording with a tone described as 'clarity through gain' and controlled lows. The EMG 81 prioritizes aggression and separation, making it excellent for live extreme metal but less specifically optimized for recording headroom.
Do both require soldering or battery changes?
Both use EMG's solderless installation system and run on a single 9V battery lasting 3000 hours with 80 microamp draw. Installation and battery maintenance are identical between the two models.