What makes the 85X different from the EMG 81?

The 85X uses Alnico V magnets and is voiced with a 1870 Hz resonant frequency that emphasizes midrange presence, making it more articulate and suitable for both lead and rhythm work. The 81 is designed as a tighter, more scooped option for extreme high-gain applications; the 85X sits between aggressive output and note definition.

How long does the battery last?

The 9V battery is rated for approximately 3000 hours of continuous operation with a minimal 80 µA current draw, so even heavy players can expect months of use per battery change.

Can I use this in both bridge and neck positions?

Yes, the 85X is designed to work in bridge and neck positions alike, though it excels as a bridge pickup for lead work and chunky rhythm tones.

Is installation complicated?

No—the 85X features solderless connectivity and a 2-wire plus battery configuration, making it straightforward to install without soldering experience.

What genres is this pickup best suited for?

The 85X is engineered for metal, hard rock, djent, and progressive music where high output, tight definition, and minimal feedback are essential; it is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk applications.

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 Chrome

The EMG 85X is the go-to active pickup for bridge-position aggression in modern metal and hard rock. This proven workhorse delivers tight low-end definition with piercing treble clarity, giving you fast transient response and minimal feedback even at high gain. Onstage and in the studio, it cuts through dense mixes without sacrificing note definition. The brushed chrome finish pairs professional aesthetics with proven electromagnetic performance.

Tone & Output Characteristics

Built on Alnico V magnets and engineered for 3.10V RMS output, the 85X sits in the vocal midrange with its 1870 Hz resonant frequency, making it ideal for lead work and chunky rhythm tones. Works equally well in bridge and neck positions, but excels when paired with a complementary neck pickup for full-range aggression.

Electronics & Power

This active design runs on a single 9V battery rated for 3000 hours of continuous operation, drawing minimal 80 µA current—meaning one battery gets you through weeks of gigs and rehearsals. The solderless connectivity and 2-wire plus battery configuration make installation straightforward, while the -101 dBV output noise floor and 10 kΩ output impedance ensure clean signal transmission to your amp with zero interference.

Key Features

Active humbucker design with Alnico V magnet material
Solderless wiring configuration for fast installation
3.10V RMS output voltage (4.50V peak)
10K ohm DC resistance and 10 kΩ output impedance
1870 Hz resonant frequency for defined midrange presence
Ultra-low output noise at -101 dBV
9V battery power with 3000-hour battery life
Minimal 80 µA current draw
Compatible with bridge and neck positions
Brushed chrome finish
2-wire plus battery conductor configuration

The 85X remains the standard-setting active pickup for gigging and recording players who demand precision, output, and durability in high-gain contexts.