Is this pickup suitable for drop-tuned and extended-range metal?

Yes. The 85X's tight low-end response and high output (1.25V RMS) are designed to maintain clarity and definition in heavy gain contexts, including drop tunings and modern metal applications. The Alnico V magnet and upper-midrange emphasis help prevent mud and keep articulation even at extreme volumes.

Can I install this without soldering?

Yes. The 85X features solderless installation with a 1/4" stereo jack connector. You simply connect the jack and insert the included 9V battery—no soldering required.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The included 9V battery delivers approximately 3000 hours of runtime at an 80 microamp current draw, which translates to roughly 4 months of continuous use or several years of typical gigging and practice.

What is the difference between the 85X and the standard EMG 85?

The 85X features an upgraded design with extended frequency response, a resonant peak at 1.87 kHz for enhanced upper-midrange articulation, and improved output dynamics. It shares the same core Alnico V character but delivers more defined attack and clarity through gain stages.

Can I use this in both bridge and neck positions?

Yes. The 85X is compatible with either bridge or neck position in 6-string guitars, allowing flexible configuration depending on your tone preferences and existing setup.

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 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

The EMG 85X is a high-output active humbucker engineered for stage reliability and cutting tone. This pickup delivers a tight, defined attack with controlled sustain—ideal for modern rock, metal, and fusion applications where precision articulation and clarity through heavy gain stages matter on every gig.

Tone & Electronics

Built around an Alnico V magnet, the 85X produces a 1.25V RMS output with exceptional headroom for distortion circuits. The 1.87 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes upper-midrange articulation, making pick attacks and string definition cut through dense mixes without sacrificing the low-end authority that defines the EMG sound signature.

Design & Installation

The brushed black chrome finish offers a sophisticated look that complements virtually any guitar aesthetic. Solderless installation means quick swaps—simply connect the 1/4" stereo jack and insert the included 9V battery, which delivers 3000 hours of runtime at a minimal 80 microamps current draw. Road-tested reliability with zero downtime when it matters.

Key Features

Alnico V magnet for warm, defined tone
1.25V RMS output with 1.75V peak voltage
1.87 kHz resonant frequency for articulate midrange presence
Brushed Black Chrome finish
Solderless installation — no soldering required
1/4" stereo jack connector
10K DC resistance
-89 dBV output noise floor
9V battery powered with 3000-hour battery life
6-string configuration
Compatible with bridge or neck position
10 Kohm output impedance

The EMG 85X combines active electronics that survive the road with the tonal character touring and working musicians have trusted for decades.