EMG4862 vs EMG4863 — Compare
EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The 85X offers a more balanced, articulate tone suitable for progressive and studio work, while the 81X prioritizes aggressive midrange punch and feedback rejection for metal and drop tunings. Choose the 85X for versatility across genres; choose the 81X for pure high-gain aggression.
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EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Alnico V magnet provides warmer, more refined high-output tone
- ✓ Balanced frequency response works across lead and rhythm playing
- ✓ Lower output (4.50V strumming) maintains note definition without muddiness
- ✓ Better suited to progressive and studio applications
Why choose EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Higher strum output (8.50V) delivers maximum aggression and cut
- ✓ Steel rail pole pieces ensure consistency across unconventional tunings
- ✓ 1.72 kHz resonant peak emphasizes midrange punch in dense mixes
- ✓ Ceramic and steel magnets optimized for tight, controlled sustain
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has higher output?
The 81X delivers 8.50V on full strum compared to the 85X's 4.50V. The 81X is designed for maximum aggression; the 85X balances output with articulation.
Are both suitable for drop tunings?
The 81X is specifically engineered for drop tunings and unconventional string gauges thanks to its steel rail pole pieces and ceramic magnets. The 85X works in drop tunings but is designed more for balanced frequency response.
Do they use the same installation system?
Both use EMG's Solderless Quick-Connect system, but the 85X uses a 3-wire design while the 81X uses a 3-pin header. Both eliminate soldering and reduce setup time.
Which is better for jazz or blues?
Neither is ideal for jazz or blues—both are high-output metal and hard rock pickups. The 85X is slightly warmer due to its Alnico V magnet, but both prioritize aggression over the dynamics those genres require.