EMG6499 vs EMG6502 — Compare
EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The SX/SX/85X pairs single-coils with a punchy humbucker bridge pickup for aggressive rock and metal tones, while the SX/SX/89X keeps all three pickups in single-coil voicing for brighter, more versatile rock and pop sounds. Choose the 85X for thicker rhythm tones and high-gain styles, or the 89X for glassy, articulate clarity across cleaner and moderate-gain settings.
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EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.00 | $299.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ 85X humbucker bridge delivers aggressive midrange punch ideal for heavy rock and metal
- ✓ Thicker, fuller rhythm tones from mixed single-coil and humbucker configuration
- ✓ Specified 1.00V string / 3.00V strum output and -107 dB noise floor for studio-grade clarity
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life minimizes replacement frequency
Why choose EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Consistent single-coil character across all three positions for traditional tonal continuity
- ✓ Brighter, glassier highs with warm mids suit pop, indie, and blues better than metal
- ✓ More versatile across genres without requiring bridge pickup compromise
- ✓ Simpler aesthetic and tonal palette for players who prefer single-coil response
Frequently asked questions
Which handles high-gain and metal better?
The SX/SX/85X. The 85X humbucker bridge pickup is engineered for aggressive midrange punch and thicker sustain, making it ideal for high-gain and metal applications where bridge pickup thickness matters most.
Which is better for clean and moderately overdriven tones?
The SX/SX/89X. Its all single-coil configuration delivers brighter, glassier highs and warm mids that shine at lower gain levels, suiting pop, indie, blues, and clean rock tones.
Are there major differences in noise performance or output specs?
The SX/SX/85X provides published specs: 1.00V string output, 3.00V strum output, and -107 dB noise floor. The SX/SX/89X is described as 'high output' with 'reduced noise floor' and 'tight bass,' but detailed output and noise figures are not provided; both use active 9V circuitry with similar low-impedance designs.
How do they differ in installation?
Both are drop-in sets requiring a 9V battery and EMG wiring harness. The SX/SX/85X uses a mixed three-pickup cavity, while the SX/SX/89X fits standard single-coil routes, making the 89X potentially easier to install in guitars originally routed for single-coils only.