EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3414
Description
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The EMG 85X is a workhorse active humbucker built for gigging musicians who demand tight, articulate response with zero hum—essential for modern rock, metal, and high-gain stages. Its compact footprint fits most guitar cavities, low-impedance output plays well with pedalboards and live rigs, and solderless connectors mean fast swaps between gigs or quick mid-tour fixes.
Tone & Output Characteristics
This active design produces 3.1 V string output and 4.5 V strum output with exceptional clarity and definition across the frequency spectrum. The 2K DC resistance and 10 KOhm output impedance yield a focused, punchy character that cuts through heavily distorted mix on stage while holding articulation in clean passages—no mud, no feedback surprises.
Power & Reliability
Running on a single 9 V battery at 80 mA current draw, the 85X delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life, keeping you on the road without constant replacements. The extremely low -101 dB output noise floor stays silent even in high-gain chains and dense pedalboard setups, while the 27 V DC maximum supply rating provides headroom for expanded voltage configurations in custom rigs.
Key Features
- Active humbucking pickup with solderless connectivity
- Alnico V magnet material for responsive dynamics
- Close aperture coils for focused, defined response
- Covered design in black
- Output Voltage (String): 3.1 V
- Output Voltage (Strum): 4.5 V
- DC Resistance: 2K
- Output Impedance: 10 KOhm
- Current at 9 V: 80 mA
- Battery Life: 3000 hours
- Output Noise: -101 dB
- Maximum Supply: 27 V DC
The 85X combines legendary EMG reliability with solderless installation, making it the pickup of choice for touring players and session musicians who need professional-grade active tone you can count on night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is a tight, articulate active humbucker built for metal, hard rock, and modern rock rigs that demand clarity even under heavy distortion and drop tunings. Its low output impedance and focused tone lock in punchy definition and minimal noise, making it reliable for gigging and touring musicians who run high-gain chains. Solderless wiring and 3000-hour battery life keep setup simple and downtime minimal on the road.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Modern Rock, Drop Tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Tight low end, articulate, high output, minimal noise, punchy |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is the EMG 85X best suited for?
The 85X excels in metal, hard rock, modern rock, and drop-tuning applications where articulate, high-output tone is essential. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk playing.
How long does the 9 V battery last?
At 80 mA current draw, the battery delivers approximately 3000 hours of playable time, roughly 3–4 months of regular use before replacement is needed.
Does the EMG 85X require soldering to install?
No. The pickup features solderless connectivity, which speeds up installation and makes future modifications or swaps quick and easy without technical soldering skills.
How does the EMG 85X compare to the EMG 81?
The 85X is more versatile than the 81, offering slightly warmer response and better articulation across both high-gain and cleaner tones, while the 81 is a classic workhorse for pure metal aggression. Both deliver the signature EMG active clarity and reliability.
What is the output noise floor, and why does it matter?
The 85X produces a -101 dB output noise floor, which is extremely low and ensures silent operation even when stacked with multiple high-gain pedals or through long cable runs, critical for studio recording and live mixing.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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