Can I install the EMG 85 without soldering?

Yes. The pickup uses EMG's solderless Quik-Connect cable system and comes with a prewired volume/tone control set, output jack, and battery clip, so installation requires no soldering tools or skills.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The battery provides approximately 3000 hours of typical playing time, which translates to roughly 1–2 years of regular use before replacement.

Can I use the EMG 85 in both bridge and neck positions?

Yes, the EMG 85 is designed to work equally well in bridge or neck position across a wide range of playing styles.

What genres is the EMG 85 best suited for?

The EMG 85 excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive music, as well as studio sessions and live performance. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk.

How does the EMG 85 compare to the EMG 81?

The EMG 85 produces a slightly warmer, more balanced tone with smoother midrange presence compared to the 81, making it more versatile for both bridge and neck positions while maintaining the same active-circuit reliability and low noise.

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 Chrome

The EMG 85 delivers articulate, punchy output with clarity that cuts through dense mixes and high-gain settings. This active humbucker balances tight low-end definition with smooth midrange presence, making it equally at home in bridge or neck position across a wide range of playing styles. The solderless Quik-Connect system simplifies installation and swaps without requiring soldering skills or tools.

Tone & Electronics

The pickup's Alnico V magnet housed in a stainless steel cap produces a resonant frequency of 1870 Hz, yielding focused articulation and reduced mud in the low frequencies. With 10 kΩ DC resistance, 3.10 V RMS output, and 4.50 V peak output, the EMG 85 pushes your amp's front end with consistent gain and sustain, backed by a noise floor of -101 dBV for clean silent operation even in high-volume live settings.

Power & Installation

A single 9 V battery powers the active circuit with an exceptional 3000-hour battery life, translating to years of typical playing without battery swaps during tours or regular gigging. The included prewired split-shaft volume and tone control set, output jack, and battery clip streamline installation, while the Quik-Connect cable eliminates soldering entirely for quick mounting and removal on the road.

Key Features

Active humbucker with Alnico V magnets in stainless steel cap
10 kΩ DC resistance for balanced output and responsiveness
3.10 V RMS / 4.50 V peak output voltage
Resonant frequency: 1870 Hz
Output noise: -101 dBV (silent operation)
9 V battery powered with 3000-hour battery life
Current draw: 80 µA
Solderless Quik-Connect connectivity for tool-free installation
Chrome cover finish
Suitable for bridge or neck position
Made in USA
Includes prewired volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip, and mounting hardware

The EMG 85 remains a stage and session standard, combining modern active-circuit reliability with time-tested tonal character that demands minimal maintenance and maximum dependability.