EMG6500 vs EMG6503 — Compare
EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in White vs EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
The SX/SX/85X pairs bright single-coils with a full humbucker bridge for versatile blues-to-metal range, while the SX/SX/89X uses a hybrid bridge pickup optimized purely for rock and metal aggression. Choose the 85X if you need authentic single-coil funk and blues tones alongside hard rock; choose the 89X if metal and high-gain rock are your primary focus.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
Specs side by side
| EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in White | EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in White | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $309.00 | $309.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG SX/SX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
- ✓ Full humbucker bridge (85X) delivers thick, warm sustain ideal for blues and classic rock
- ✓ Broader tonal palette spanning blues, funk, and metal in one set
- ✓ Punchy, traditional bridge character familiar to Strat-to-Les Paul players
Why choose EMG SX/SX/89X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
- ✓ Hybrid 89X bridge combines single-coil articulation with humbucker body for cleaner high-gain definition
- ✓ Extended dynamic range optimized for studio recording and live high-gain performance
- ✓ Brighter, more aggressive modern voicing cuts through dense mixes better than traditional designs
Frequently asked questions
What's the key difference between the 85X and 89X bridge pickups?
The 85X is a traditional full humbucker delivering thick, warm tone with strong sustain. The 89X is a hybrid design combining single-coil articulation with humbucker body, offering brighter, more defined high-gain character. The 85X excels in blues and classic rock; the 89X is tailored for metal clarity.
Which set is better for blues and funk?
The SX/SX/85X is designed for blues and funk applications with its full humbucker bridge providing warm, responsive tones. The SX/SX/89X is marketed for metal and rock and lacks blues/funk in its recommended genres.
Are both sets drop-in replacements for Fender Stratocasters?
Yes, both sets are engineered for standard Fender-style single-coil cavities in neck and middle positions and can accommodate humbucker-routed bridges. Verify your specific guitar's bridge routing before purchasing.
Do both require a 9V battery?
Yes, both sets use active EMG circuitry powered by a standard 9V battery housed in the control cavity, ensuring low-noise operation and consistent output.