What tunings and string gauges work best with the 85-8H?

The 85-8H is engineered specifically for extended-range 8-string guitars and optimized to handle modern extended-range tunings without sacrificing clarity or dynamic response. It accommodates the wider coil spacing and increased string tension demands of 8-string instruments while delivering balanced frequency response across all eight strings.

How does the 85-8H compare to the 81-8H?

The 85-8H produces a warm, midrange-focused tone with reduced output compared to the hotter 81-8H, allowing for more articulate note definition and string-to-string separation. The lower output level of the 85-8H gives you greater dynamic control, while the 81-8H delivers a more aggressive, higher-output character.

Does this pickup require soldering to install?

No. The 85-8H uses EMG's solderless connector system for fast installation and removal, and it accepts standard EMG pickup rings and hardware, making straightforward installation in most 8-string platforms possible.

What power does the 85-8H need?

The active preamp circuitry requires a 9V battery or external power supply to operate. The onboard active design eliminates noise and hum while delivering consistent output across all eight strings.

Is the 85-8H suitable for jazz or blues?

The 85-8H is purpose-built for high-gain and distortion-heavy applications like progressive metal and djent, with tone characteristics optimized for that sonic territory. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk applications.

Do I pay sales tax on this order?

Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $10 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome

The EMG 85-8H brings the warm, articulate midrange character that made the original 85 design legendary to 8-string instruments, engineered to handle extended range and increased string tension without sacrificing clarity or dynamic response. Built for progressive metal and djent players, this active humbucker cuts through heavy distortion with note definition that stays tight across all eight strings, even at extreme tunings.

Tone & Output Characteristics

The 85-8H produces a balanced, mid-focused frequency response with reduced output compared to the brutally hot 81, allowing for articulate note definition and string-to-string separation even when playing heavily distorted. The active design eliminates noise and hum while delivering consistent output across all eight strings without unwanted feedback.

Construction & Compatibility

8-string configuration means this pickup is built specifically for the wider coil spacing and magnetic field demands of extended-range guitars. The black chrome finish matches modern instrument aesthetics while the standardized mounting accepts EMG's pickup rings and hardware, allowing straightforward installation in most 8-string platforms.

Key Features

Active EMG design with onboard preamp circuitry
8-string humbucker format with optimized coil geometry
Warm, midrange-forward tone signature ideal for definition in distortion
Reduced output level for dynamic control and articulation
Black chrome cover and hardware finish
Standard EMG mounting footprint compatible with most 8-string guitars
Humbucking configuration cancels 60-cycle hum and electromagnetic noise
Solderless EMG connector system for fast installation and removal
Balanced frequency response across all eight strings
Designed for high-gain and distortion-heavy applications
Requires 9V battery or external power supply

The 85-8H stands as the reference standard for 8-string players who refuse to compromise on tone clarity and articulation regardless of tuning or playing style.

Best suited for	Progressive, Djent, Metal, Extended Range, Studio Sessions
Tonal character	Warm midrange, articulate, balanced output, dynamic control, clear string separation
Less specialized for	Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional