EMG4633 vs EMG4635 — Compare
EMG 81-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 81-8XH is purpose-built for 8-string instruments with ceramic magnets and extreme noise rejection, while the EMG 85X is a versatile standard-mount active humbucker with Alnico V magnets suited to 6- or 7-string guitars. Choose the 81-8XH if you play extended-range 8-string instruments; choose the 85X if you need a high-output pickup for conventional guitar tunings.
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EMG 81-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 81-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Engineered specifically for 8-string guitars with optimized string spacing and output per string
- ✓ Ceramic magnets and -107 dBv noise floor provide exceptional noise rejection for high-gain recording
- ✓ 2.00 V per string output delivers consistent articulation across all eight strings
Why choose EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver a warm, compressed tone with excellent note separation across genres
- ✓ Long shaft design fits standard guitar cavities without routing modifications
- ✓ More versatile midrange character balances high-gain metal and moderate-gain hard rock applications
Frequently asked questions
Will the 85X fit an 8-string guitar?
No. The 81-8XH is designed with 8-string spacing and mounting geometry; the 85X is a standard long-shaft pickup for conventional 6 or 7-string instruments.
Which has lower noise for studio recording?
The 81-8XH has a -107 dBv noise floor specifically optimized for high-gain studio work. The 85X does not specify a noise floor measurement.
Can I use either pickup in hard rock without it sounding too aggressive?
Yes. The 85X's Alnico V magnets and presence-peak design work well in moderate to high-gain hard rock. The 81-8XH is more specifically tuned for metal and djent aggression.
Do both come with solderless wiring?
Yes. Both the 81-8XH and 85X include solderless installation systems to simplify setup.