What genres and playing styles is the EMG 85 best suited for?

The EMG 85 excels in metal, hard rock, progressive rock, and high-gain applications where midrange punch and articulate treble are priorities. It is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk playing styles, which typically benefit from different tonal characteristics.

How long does the 9V battery last, and is it easy to replace?

The battery lasts approximately 3000 hours of normal use, significantly reducing downtime during touring or extended studio sessions. The solderless 1/4 inch stereo jack connector and simple 2-wire plus battery configuration make battery changes and installation quick and tool-free.

Can the EMG 85 be installed in both bridge and neck positions?

Yes, the EMG 85 is fully compatible with both bridge and neck positions, making it a versatile workhorse for single-pickup or multi-pickup active setups.

What is the output noise level, and will it work with high-gain amplifiers?

The EMG 85 delivers a -101 dB output noise floor at 60 Hz, ensuring virtually silent operation even in high-gain applications and modern mix contexts. The 3.1V string output and 4.5V strum output provide controlled gain structure without excessive noise.

What magnet type does the EMG 85 use, and how does it affect tone?

The pickup uses Alnico V magnets housed in a covered design, delivering the signature aggressive midrange presence and articulate treble that defines the EMG 85 character. The 1.87 kHz resonant frequency gives the pickup its mid-forward tone ideal for rock and metal genres.

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 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

The EMG 85 is a high-output active humbucker that delivers aggressive midrange presence and articulate treble response. Built with Alnico V magnets and housed in a covered design, this pickup excels in bridge and neck positions, making it a workhorse for players demanding clarity and punch without excessive noise floor. The brushed black chrome finish pairs professional aesthetics with proven durability.

Electrical Performance

This active design operates on a single 9V battery with an impressive 3000-hour battery life, eliminating frequent replacements during extended touring or studio work. The 3.1V string output and 4.5V strum output provide controlled gain structure that sits well in modern mix contexts, while the -101 dB output noise floor ensures virtually silent operation even in high-gain applications. A 1.87 kHz resonant frequency gives the pickup its signature mid-forward character ideal for rock and metal genres.

Installation & Compatibility

The solderless 1/4" stereo jack connector and straightforward 2-wire plus battery configuration streamline installation in both bridge and neck positions. Maximum supply voltage of 27V DC and 80mA current draw at 9V allow flexible integration into multi-pickup systems and active electronics setups without compromise.

Key Features

Active humbucker design with covered magnet structure
Alnico V magnet material for articulate, midrange-focused tone
Output: 3.1V (string), 4.5V (strum)
Resonant frequency: 1.87 kHz
Output noise: -101 dB at 60 Hz
Operates on single 9V battery with 3000-hour battery life
Output impedance: 10 KOhm
Solderless 1/4" stereo jack connector
2-wire plus battery configuration
Maximum supply voltage: 27V DC
Bridge and neck position compatible
Current draw: 80 mA at 9V

The EMG 85 remains a reliable choice for gigging musicians prioritizing midrange articulation, low-noise operation, and straightforward active electronics integration across professional and project guitars alike.