What genres and playing styles is this pickup suited for?

The EMG 85-8H is optimized for metal, djent, progressive, and drop-tuning applications where tight low-end definition and articulate attack are priorities. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk styles.

How long does the 9V battery last, and what comes in the box?

The active design draws only 80 microamps at 9V, yielding approximately 3000 hours of battery life per standard 9V cell. The package includes a complete wiring kit with battery bus, jacks, cables, mounting hardware, and 25K volume and tone potentiometers.

Will this pickup stay clean at high gain settings?

Yes. The -101 dBV noise floor at 60 Hz ensures clean amplification even at high gain, and the 3.10 V RMS output on single strings plus 4.50 V peak on strums deliver muscular gain structure without excessive noise.

How does the EMG 85-8H compare to other 8-string active pickups?

The EMG 85-8H sits in the same category as the Seymour Duncan Nazgul-8, DiMarzio D Activator-8, and Fishman Fluence Modern 8. Its defining characteristics are a focused 1.87 kHz resonant frequency that emphasizes midrange cut, Alnico V magnets for articulate response, and efficient battery life.

What is the skill level required to install this pickup?

This pickup is suitable for intermediate, advanced, and professional players. The complete wiring kit and included potentiometers simplify installation, though comfort with soldering and routing may be necessary depending on your 8-string guitar's existing configuration.

Do I pay sales tax on this order?

We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.

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

The EMG 85-8H brings the focused, articulate punch that EMG's 85 lineage is known for, purpose-built for 8-string instruments. This active humbucker maintains clarity across the extended range while locking down the tight low end that heavy modern music demands on stage. The compact footprint and consistent output make it a workhorse for gigging players who need reliability and precision in their signal chain without compromise.

Tone & Output Characteristics

Loaded with Alnico V magnets and close aperture coils, this pickup cuts with a punchy, defined character that slices through dense live mixes. The 3.10 V RMS output on single strings and 4.50 V peak on strums delivers muscular gain structure without excessive noise; the -101 dBV noise floor at 60 Hz keeps amplification clean even at high gain settings, critical for venue stability.

Power & Electronics

The active design runs on 9V power with minimal draw at just 80 microamps current, translating to approximately 3000 hours of battery life between changes. The pickup handles up to 27 V DC maximum supply, and its 1.87 kHz resonant frequency locks in a focused midrange that cuts through the mix without harshness.

Key Features

Alnico V magnets with close aperture coils for articulate response
3.10 V RMS output on individual strings
4.50 V peak output on strummed chords
-101 dBV noise floor (60 Hz measurement)
10 kΩ output impedance
80 microamperes current draw at 9V operation
3000-hour battery life on standard 9V cell
27 V DC maximum supply rating
1.87 kHz resonant frequency
Includes 25K volume and tone potentiometers
Complete wiring kit with battery bus, jacks, cables, and mounting hardware
Designed for 8-string guitar installations

This pickup delivers the defined attack and controlled sustain that 8-string players rely on for a professional-grade active system that performs night after night.