EMG 85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG2921
Description
EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 85 delivers a tight, focused attack with exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum. This active humbucker pairs a low-noise design with responsive dynamics that reward both precise picking and aggressive playing styles. On stage, it cuts through the mix without unwanted hum or feedback, and the gold finish with embossed EMG logo looks professional in any high-end build or touring rig.
Active Electronics & Power
Built around a 9V battery power source, the EMG 85 operates with exceptional efficiency—delivering 3000 hours of battery life before replacement. The 3.10V RMS output with peak voltage at 4.50V provides ample headroom and sustain, while the -101 dBV noise floor keeps unwanted hum and interference virtually inaudible even at high gain settings. Live reliability and consistent tone night after night come standard.
Tone & Magnetic Design
The Alnico 5 magnet provides warmth and definition while maintaining the aggressive character EMG is known for. With a resonant frequency of 1870 Hz, the pickup emphasizes upper midrange presence and articulation, making it ideal for cutting through dense mixes and demanding high-output applications.
Key Features
- Active humbucker form-factor with recognizable gold embossed EMG logo
- 9V battery power source with 3000-hour battery life
- 3.10V RMS output voltage for consistent, predictable performance
- 4.50V peak output voltage for dynamic range and sustain
- -101 dBV output noise specification for ultra-quiet operation
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 80 µA current draw @ 9V
- Alnico 5 magnet construction
- 1870 Hz resonant frequency for focused midrange presence
The EMG 85 remains a studio and stage standard for players prioritizing noise-free, articulate output and reliable active electronics.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85 is a high-output active humbucker that delivers a tight, focused attack with exceptional clarity—ideal for metal, hard rock, and high-gain applications where cutting through dense mixes matters. Built with Alnico 5 magnets and active 9V electronics, it produces a -101 dBV noise floor so you get pure aggression without hum, even at extreme gain settings. Choose it if you demand studio-grade articulation and reliability on stage without compromise.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ High-gain applications
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'active' mean, and do I need a battery?
Active electronics use a 9V battery to power onboard amplification, giving you higher output, lower noise, and more control than passive pickups. The EMG 85 runs for approximately 3000 hours per battery, so replacement is infrequent and straightforward.
Is the EMG 85 good for blues or jazz?
No—the EMG 85 is designed for metal, hard rock, and high-gain applications where tight lows, articulate highs, and upper midrange presence are the priorities. For blues and jazz, warmer, more dynamic passive designs are a better fit.
How does the EMG 85 compare to the EMG 81?
The EMG 81 is slightly brighter and tighter; the 85 adds more warmth and low-end definition while maintaining the same active noise-free operation. Both excel in high-gain contexts; the 85 offers slightly more character and sustain.
What's the output voltage, and why does it matter?
The EMG 85 outputs 3.10V RMS with a 4.50V peak—significantly hotter than passive pickups—giving you more headroom, sustain, and presence in your amp without additional overdrive. This ensures consistent, predictable tone across high-gain and studio settings.
Will this pickup fit my guitar?
The EMG 85 uses standard humbucker routing and mounting. Confirm your guitar has standard humbucker cavity; if you're replacing a different pickup type, you may need routing or adapter rings.
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.
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