EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4194
Description
EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG 85X is built for gigging musicians who need predictable, articulate aggression night after night. The assertive midrange and tight articulation of active pickup technology arrive in a chromed steel housing that resists corrosion and maintains visual appeal through years of road use. This long-shaft configuration fits standard humbucker cavities while the solderless Quik-Connect system eliminates the need for soldering during installation or future swaps—essential when you need to diagnose tone issues fast or swap pickups between instruments on the fly. The 85X bridges the gap between aggressive output and musicality, making it a reliable choice for stage players seeking clarity and punch without sacrificing dynamic response.
Tone & Output Characteristics
The Alnico V magnet paired with close aperture coils produces a voiced output of 3.10V during picked notes and 4.50V during strummed chords, delivering aggressive response without oversaturation. The 1.87 kHz resonant frequency and 10 kΩ output impedance establish a midrange-forward sonic signature with controlled highs—ideal for cutting through dense mixes, maintaining note definition at high gain settings, and sitting tight in a live band context.
Power & Installation
The active circuit draws only 80 µA at 9V, yielding approximately 3000 hours of battery life on a single 9V cell, while the 27V DC maximum supply rating provides headroom for custom power configurations. The included split shaft volume/active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs make this pickup a complete retrofit solution requiring no additional hardware purchases.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet with close aperture coils
- 3.10V output (string) / 4.50V output (strum)
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 1.87 kHz resonant frequency
- Chromed steel housing with bar-shaped pole piece design
- Solderless 3-wire Quik-Connect system for fast installation
- 80 µA current draw at 9V
- 3000-hour battery life per cell
- 27V DC maximum supply rating
- Long shaft configuration fits standard humbucker cavities
- Includes split shaft volume/active tone control set and output jack
- Battery clip set and mounting hardware included
The 85X is a straightforward active humbucker for stage players prioritizing reliability, ease of installation, and consistent high-output performance across a wide range of playing styles and amplifier configurations.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is an active humbucker with aggressive midrange and tight articulation, delivering punchy attack and note clarity at high gain without muddiness. Built for intermediate to advanced players chasing metal and hard rock tones, it features a solderless Quik-Connect system for quick installation and swaps, plus a chromed steel housing that holds up to touring and heavy use. Choose it when you need reliable, high-output punch that cuts through dense mixes and responds dynamically across drop tunings and aggressive playing styles.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Drop Tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Aggressive midrange, tight articulation, high output, controlled highs, punchy attack |
| 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 is the difference between the 85X and the standard EMG 85?
The 85X is the modern revision of the 85 with refined voicing and Quik-Connect solderless wiring, making it faster to install and swap. Both deliver EMG's signature active aggression, but the 85X offers improved consistency and ease of retrofit for players who value quick maintenance and reliable high-output performance.
Will this pickup fit my guitar?
The 85X is a long-shaft humbucker that fits standard humbucker cavities found in most modern electric guitars. If your guitar has a standard-sized humbucker route, this pickup will drop in; measure your cavity or consult your guitar's specs if you are unsure.
How long does the battery last, and what is included?
A single 9V battery lasts approximately 3000 hours of use. The kit includes a split shaft volume and active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs—everything needed for a complete retrofit with no additional purchases.
Is soldering required to install this pickup?
No. The EMG 85X uses a solderless 3-wire Quik-Connect system that eliminates the need for soldering during installation or future pickup swaps, making it ideal for players who want fast, hassle-free installation.
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best for?
The 85X excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive music, particularly with drop tunings where its aggressive midrange and tight articulation cut through at high gain. It is not voiced for jazz, blues, or folk—those styles demand a warmer, more dynamic response than active pickups provide.
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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