EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker 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
- EMG3954
Description
EMG 85X Gold Active Humbucker Pickup
The EMG 85X delivers articulate, controlled output with a tight high-end response ideal for modern rock, metal, and high-gain applications. Its close-aperture coil design and Alnico V magnets produce clarity without sacrificing punch, making it a reliable choice for players who need definition to cut through on stage across genres. The gold-plated steel housing adds durability and visual distinction to any instrument.
Tone & Output Characteristics
This pickup generates 3.10V under string vibration and 4.50V when strummed, delivering responsive, articulate midrange with natural compression. The 1870 Hz resonant frequency emphasizes clarity in the vocal register while maintaining tight low-end definition—essential for cutting through on high-volume stages or in dense live mixes where every note matters.
Power & Installation
The EMG 85X runs on a single 9V battery with 3000-hour battery life, eliminating external power requirements for gigging musicians and touring rigs. Installation is straightforward thanks to the 3-wire quick-connect system and included wiring harness, making retrofit into most guitars feasible without extensive modification—important when you need reliable gear that gets in and out of venues quickly.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnets with close-aperture coils for controlled, articulate response
- 3.10V string / 4.50V strum output for responsive dynamics
- 1870 Hz resonant frequency emphasizing clarity and presence
- 10 kΩ impedance with -101 dBV output noise floor
- 80 µA current draw for extended battery life
- 3000-hour battery life on standard 9V power
- Gold-plated steel housing for durability and finish
- 3-wire quick-connect system for simplified installation
- Bar-shaped magnet design with no individual pole pieces
- Includes 25K volume pot, 25K active VLPF tone control, battery bus, jacks, cables, and mounting hardware
The EMG 85X pairs aggressive midrange punch with controlled articulation, making it a reliable workhorse for demanding live and studio electric guitar applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is an active humbucker designed for metal, hard rock, and high-gain players who need articulate definition and tight control without losing aggressive punch. Its close-aperture coil design and Alnico V magnets cut through dense live mixes with clarity in the vocal midrange while keeping lows defined and highs controlled. Run it on a single 9V battery (3000-hour life), drop it into most guitars with the included quick-connect system, and gig with confidence on any high-volume stage.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, High-gain applications, Studio Sessions, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate midrange, tight low end, controlled high-end, aggressive punch, high output |
| 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 does the long shaft version mean?
The long shaft refers to the pickup's magnet rod length, which accommodates guitars with deeper cavities or custom builds. It maintains the same electrical specifications as standard EMG 85X models but fits instruments requiring extended magnet clearance.
Is this pickup suitable for genres outside metal and hard rock?
The EMG 85X is optimized for high-gain applications and modern rock; it is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk styles where a warmer, more vintage tone is typically preferred. Its articulate midrange and aggressive character are engineered specifically for cutting through heavy distortion and dense mixes.
What's included with the pickup?
The package includes the pickup itself, a 25K volume pot, 25K active VLPF tone control, battery bus, jacks, cables, mounting hardware, and a quick-connect 3-wire installation harness for simplified wiring.
How long does the battery last, and can I play live without worrying about power?
A single 9V battery delivers 3000 hours of play time with 80 µA current draw, meaning one battery easily covers multiple touring cycles or years of casual playing. No external amp or power supply is required—the pickup is entirely self-contained.
How does the EMG 85X compare to the EMG 81?
The 85X delivers more midrange punch and articulation with a slightly higher output (4.50V strum versus the 81's lower output), making it better suited for modern metal and high-gain tones where clarity and aggression are priorities. The 81 is more versatile across rock genres; the 85X specializes in cutting, defined brutality.
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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