EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4428
Description
EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 85-8H is a purpose-built active humbucker for 8-string instruments, delivering the clarity and articulation expected from EMG's pro-level electronics. This bridge or neck position pickup handles extended range tunings with tight, focused response and minimal noise floor—essential for modern metal and progressive applications where string separation matters on stage and in the studio.
Tone & Electronics
Built on Alnico V magnets, the 85-8H produces a warm, musical midrange character distinct from the brighter 81-8H. Output measures 3.10 V RMS with 4.50 V peak, delivering substantial gain without compression. The -101 dBV noise floor and 1870 Hz resonant frequency ensure articulate highs and controlled lows across all eight strings, while 10 kΩ output impedance maintains signal integrity through long cable runs—critical for live reliability across any venue or recording setup.
Power & Installation
This active design runs on a single 9V battery rated for 3000 hours of use, translating to roughly 4 months of typical gigging. Installation is simplified by the included Solderless Install System, which eliminates traditional wiring in favor of quick-disconnect connectors—no soldering required, so you can swap this pickup quickly between gigs or upgrade builds. The package includes a split shaft volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs—everything needed for a complete retrofit.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet construction for warm, defined tone
- 3.10 V RMS output / 4.50 V peak output
- -101 dBV output noise specification
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 1870 Hz resonant frequency
- 80 µA current draw at 9V
- Single 9V battery power source
- 3000-hour battery life rating
- Solderless Install System included
- Brushed black chrome finish
- 8-string configuration
- Includes volume/tone controls, output jack, battery clip, hardware
The EMG 85-8H combines the brand's proven active topology with 8-string voicing, delivering professional-grade noise rejection and harmonic control for extended-range instruments that demand road-tested reliability.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-8H is a purpose-built active humbucker for 8-string guitars, engineered to cut through dense tunings with tight low end, articulate highs, and exceptional string separation. Players working in metal and progressive genres get a warm, focused midrange character with a noise floor so clean it stays locked in even on long cable runs to the pedalboard or mixer. The Solderless Install System gets you wired and gigging fast—just swap it in, grab a 9V battery, and the professional output handles any stage or studio rig without breaking a sweat.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Extended Range
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pickup suitable for both bridge and neck positions?
Yes, the EMG 85-8H can be installed in bridge or neck position depending on your sonic needs. Bridge placement delivers maximum output and aggression; neck position offers a warmer, more controlled voice.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The 9V battery is rated for 3000 hours of use, which translates to roughly 4 months of typical gigging before replacement.
What's included in the package, and do I need soldering skills to install it?
The package includes the pickup, Solderless Install System with quick-disconnect connectors, volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs. No soldering required—the quick-disconnect system simplifies installation into a straightforward swap.
How does the 85-8H compare to the 81-8H?
The 85-8H uses Alnico V magnets and produces a warmer, more musical midrange character, while the 81-8H is brighter and more aggressive. Choose the 85-8H for focused, articulate response; the 81-8H for maximum treble and cut.
What tone should I expect with this pickup?
Expect a warm, defined midrange with articulate highs and tight low end across all eight strings. The -101 dBV noise floor and 1870 Hz resonant frequency deliver excellent string separation and minimal hum, ideal for modern metal and progressive music.
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. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. 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.
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