EMG4599 vs EMG4600 — Compare
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 85 has higher output (1.25V RMS vs 1.0V) and a lower resonant frequency (2.55 kHz) for a warmer, mid-focused tone suited to metal and high-gain studio work, while the EMG 60 has a higher resonant frequency (2.95 kHz) and covered design for a more balanced, articulate character that works across rock and metal styles. Choose the 85 for maximum clarity through distortion and aggressive tone shaping; choose the 60 if you want versatility and a more neutral baseline.
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EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Higher output voltage (1.25V RMS) pushes amp and effects more forcefully
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (2.55 kHz) emphasizes warmth and definition in the sweet spot
- ✓ Explicitly suited to progressive and high-gain studio recording
- ✓ 1.75V peak output provides extra headroom for demanding rigs
Why choose EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Balanced midrange emphasis (2.95 kHz) works across more genres without coloration
- ✓ Covered design reduces electromagnetic interference and hum pickup
- ✓ Slightly lower RMS output (1.0V) can feel tighter and more controlled in high-gain
- ✓ Voiced for home recording and rock as well as metal
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is louder or hotter?
The EMG 85 has higher RMS output at 1.25V versus the EMG 60's 1.0V, making it the hotter pickup. However, the EMG 60's peak output reaches 3.0V compared to the 85's 1.75V, so the difference is smaller at peak levels. Both are plenty loud for any amp.
What tone difference should I expect between them?
The EMG 85's resonant frequency of 2.55 kHz emphasizes warm, articulate mids, while the EMG 60 at 2.95 kHz pushes upper midrange clarity and full low-end body. The 85 will feel more aggressive and defined through gain; the 60 will feel more neutral and balanced.
Are they equally easy to install?
Both use solderless connectivity and draw the same 80 microamps from a single 9V battery with 3000-hour rated life. Installation difficulty is identical, though the EMG 60 is covered and the EMG 85 is uncovered, which may affect shielding preferences.
Which is better for jazz or blues?
Neither pickup is ideal for jazz or blues according to the product specs. Both are voiced for rock, metal, and high-gain applications. If you must choose, the EMG 60's more balanced character might adapt better, but a different pickup type would be more appropriate.