EMG SAX/SAX/85X 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
- EMG3397
Description
EMG SAX/SAX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup Set in Black
The EMG SAX/SAX/85X delivers articulate, high-headroom single-coil tones with the clarity and sustain demanded by players who refuse to compromise on dynamics. This three-pickup configuration pairs dual SAX single-coils with an 85X bridge pickup, offering a balanced palette from snappy treble to full-bodied bass response without the noise floor that plagues passive systems. Built on EMG's proven active architecture, this set suits players prioritizing definition, low-noise operation, and responsive touch sensitivity across all registers.
Active Tone Control & Electronics
The integrated X series preamp features an Active Tone Control (VLPF) that rolls off high frequencies with surgical precision, letting you shape aggression or smoothness on the fly. Noiseless design means hum and interference stay out of your signal path, preserving every nuance of your playing dynamics even at high gain.
Installation & System Components
EMG's exclusive Solderless Install System eliminates traditional wiring complexity: everything connects via quick-disconnect cables, making this retrofit accessible to builders of all skill levels. The complete package includes all necessary hardware—volume and tone potentiometers, selector switch, battery bus, output jacks, and mounting brackets—so you have everything needed for a full three-pickup setup.
Key Features
- Three-pickup configuration: SAX/SAX/85X with X series preamp
- Bar magnet construction for smooth, sustained output
- Active Tone Control (VLPF) for high-frequency roll-off
- Noiseless active electronics
- 9 Volt battery powered
- Black housing
- Solderless Install System with quick-disconnect connectors
- Includes 25k volume pot and dual 25k active tone pots
- Includes 5-way selector switch and stereo output jack
- Complete wiring harness: pickup cables, connect cables, output cable, and battery cable included
- Mounting screws, springs, and brackets for all three pickups
This set delivers the definition of modern single-coil performance without the noise penalty, ideal for players who demand articulation, headroom, and hands-free tone shaping in one integrated platform.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SAX/SAX/85X is a three-pickup active set pairing dual SAX single-coils with an 85X bridge pickup, delivering articulate, high-headroom tones from snappy treble to full-bodied bass with zero hum and noise. Built for gigging and live players who need clarity and definition without passive single-coil noise, the integrated X series preamp includes an Active Tone Control for on-the-fly shaping and uses EMG's Solderless Install System to make retrofitting straightforward. Choose this set if you want modern single-coil responsiveness and dynamic touch sensitivity with the clean signal path and reliability of active electronics.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Home Recording
- ✓ Gigging
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Vintage Tone Purists
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Solderless Install System mean for me as a builder?
EMG's Solderless Install System uses quick-disconnect cables instead of traditional soldering, making installation accessible even if you have no wiring experience. The complete package includes all hardware, potentiometers, selector switch, wiring harness, and mounting brackets, so there is no guesswork or missing components.
Will this pickup set eliminate hum and noise like active electronics should?
Yes. The noiseless active design keeps hum and interference out of your signal path, preserving every nuance of your playing dynamics even at high gain—a major advantage over passive single-coils in noisy environments or studios.
Can I shape the tone on the fly, or is it fixed?
The integrated Active Tone Control (VLPF) lets you roll off high frequencies with precision, allowing you to shift between aggression and smoothness without touching your amp settings.
How does this compare to passive single-coil alternatives?
The SAX/SAX/85X delivers single-coil articulation and responsiveness with high headroom and zero noise floor, unlike passive systems that struggle with hum and interference. You get modern definition and sustain without noise penalties.
What skill level do I need to install this?
The Solderless Install System is designed for beginners and builders of all skill levels. Everything connects via quick-disconnect cables, eliminating soldering and complex wiring.
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 $21 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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