EMG S/S/85 Active Single Coil 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
- EMG118
Description
EMG S/S/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The EMG S/S/85 configuration pairs the clarity and articulation of two ceramic S-series single coils with the focused output and midrange presence of an 85 humbucker in the bridge position. This HSS setup delivers versatile tonal range without sacrificing the high-gain punch and sustain expected from active circuitry, making it a capable choice for players working across classic rock, modern metal, and fusion styles on the live stage.
Active Electronics & Output
Each pickup in this set runs on EMG's proprietary active preamp system, ensuring consistent signal strength, low noise floor, and extended frequency response independent of cable length or amp input impedance—critical for reliable performance across different venue rigs and backline setups. The 85 bridge pickup produces a balanced, articulate high-gain voice with pronounced mids that cuts through a mix, while the paired neck and middle S pickups offer bright, cutting single-coil character ideal for dynamic rhythm work and textural playing in a live context.
Construction & Integration
All three pickups are housed in black covers and engineered to mount directly into standard Fender-spaced HSS cavities. The active circuit requires a 9V battery and standard output jack; EMG's design ensures reliable performance and minimal microphonic feedback across a wide range of playing dynamics and amplifier settings, keeping your tone consistent through a full set under stage conditions.
Key Features
- Active ceramic single-coil S pickups in neck and middle positions
- Active 85 humbucker in bridge position with enhanced midrange
- Low-impedance output with noise rejection and extended headroom
- Integrated 9V battery-powered preamp system
- Black cover finish on all three pickups
- HSS configuration suitable for standard Fender Stratocaster cavities
- Direct drop-in replacement for existing pickup systems
- Consistent signal delivery independent of cable or amp specifications
- Bright, defined single-coil response paired with focused bridge articulation
- Minimal microphonic feedback and hum rejection
This pickup set balances single-coil transparency with active-circuit reliability and high-gain capability, delivering both clean definition and aggressive sustain from a single instrument on any stage.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG S/S/85 is a three-pickup HSS set combining bright, articulate single coils in the neck and middle with a focused, midrange-rich 85 humbucker in the bridge, all powered by active circuitry for a low-noise, high-headroom signal. Built for players who need versatility across classic rock, modern metal, and fusion without sacrificing the punchy, feedback-free reliability that active electronics deliver on stage. Drop straight into a standard Fender Stratocaster cavity and get consistent, cutting tone regardless of cable length or amp input impedance.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Classic Rock
- ✓ Modern Metal
- ✓ Fusion
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the HSS configuration give me that a standard Strat doesn't?
The 85 humbucker in the bridge position adds focused midrange and high-gain punch while the dual S single coils retain the bright, cutting character you'd expect from neck and middle positions. This setup lets you cover classic rock, fusion, and modern metal styles without compromising either clean articulation or sustained aggression.
Do I need to modify my guitar to install these pickups?
No — the S/S/85 set is engineered to mount directly into standard Fender-spaced HSS cavities as a drop-in replacement. You will need a 9V battery and standard output jack, but no routing or cavity work is required.
How does the active circuit help my sound and reliability?
Active electronics deliver a consistent, low-noise signal independent of cable length or amp input impedance, extend frequency response, and provide extended headroom with minimal microphonic feedback. This means punchy, defined tone across a wide range of playing dynamics without hum or unwanted noise coloration.
Is this pickup set suitable for traditional jazz or folk playing?
The EMG S/S/85 is optimized for classic rock, modern metal, fusion, and hard rock — genres that benefit from its high-gain punch and focused midrange. Traditional jazz and folk players typically prefer passive, lower-output pickups with different tonal characteristics.
What skill level do I need to get the most from these pickups?
Intermediate to advanced and professional players will get the most from this set. The active circuit and HSS configuration reward players who can dial in gain staging and use the tonal range across multiple styles and playing techniques.
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. On this item that is roughly $20 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. 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.
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