EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4148
Description
EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 85-8XH cuts through the mix with balanced, articulate response across all eight strings and a tight, controlled midrange that keeps every note defined in a live setting. This brushed gold finish variant maintains the signature EMG active circuitry reliability that touring players depend on, while offering a distinctive visual presence on extended-range instruments. Built for players who need clarity and definition in high-output applications without losing note separation—essential when you're pushing gain hard on stage.
Tone & Output Characteristics
The Alnico V magnet and 1.87 kHz resonant frequency yield a warm yet defined tone ideal for modern 8-string applications. Output measures 3.10 V per string and 4.50 V when strummed, providing substantial signal to the preamp with minimal noise floor at -101 dBV (60 Hz), ensuring clean amplification even at high gain settings and eliminating unwanted hum in live environments.
Electronics & Installation
Active circuit operation runs efficiently on 80 microamps at 9V, yielding 3,000 hours of battery life per standard 9V cell, with maximum supply voltage of 27V DC for flexible amp compatibility. Solderless installation system and close aperture coils streamline setup and maintain precise string coupling across the wider 8-string format, so you get reliable, repeatable performance night after night without wrestling with wiring.
Key Features
- Magnet Type: Alnico V
- Resonant Frequency: 1.87 kHz
- Output Voltage (String): 3.10 V
- Output Voltage (Strum): 4.50 V
- Output Noise (60 Hz): -101 dBV
- Output Impedance: 10 kΩ
- Current @ 9V: 80 microamps
- Battery Life: 3,000 hours
- Maximum Supply: 27 V DC
- Solderless installation system with close aperture coils
- Manufactured in United States
- Finish: Brushed Gold
The 85-8XH combines road-tested EMG active electronics with 8-string voicing to deliver the consistent, high-output performance that holds up under the demands of gigging and recording.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-8XH is a high-output active humbucker built specifically for 8-string guitars, delivering articulate, tight midrange tone with excellent note separation across all strings. Built for metal, djent, and progressive players who need clarity and controlled aggression at high gain without feedback or mud. The brushed gold finish, solderless installation, and 3,000-hour battery life make it a reliable, low-maintenance choice for gigging musicians pushing extended-range instruments.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Djent, Progressive, Extended Range, Drop Tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Balanced articulate, tight controlled midrange, warm yet defined, high output, minimal noise floor |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Traditional Country (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EMG 85-8XH suitable for genres outside heavy music?
This pickup is optimized for metal, djent, progressive, and drop-tuned applications where high output and controlled articulation matter most. It's not designed for jazz, blues, or traditional country—those genres typically benefit from different voicing and output characteristics.
How long does the battery last, and what are the installation requirements?
Battery life is approximately 3,000 hours per standard 9V cell under normal playing. The pickup features EMG's solderless installation system, which significantly streamlines setup and requires no soldering.
What makes this pickup different from other 8-string humbuckers?
The 85-8XH combines an Alnico V magnet, 1.87 kHz resonant frequency, and tight controlled midrange to deliver excellent note separation across all eight strings without noise buildup. Output is 3.10 V per string with a -101 dBV noise floor, keeping the signal clean even at high gain settings.
Will this pickup fit my 8-string guitar?
The 85-8XH is engineered for 8-string extended-range instruments with close aperture coils designed to maintain precise string coupling across the wider format. Verify your guitar's humbucker cavity dimensions before purchase to ensure proper fitment.
What does the brushed gold finish look like, and does it affect tone?
The brushed gold finish is a distinctive cosmetic variant that provides visual presence on stage or in the studio. Finish does not affect the electronic performance or tone of the pickup.
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 $11 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.
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