EMG110 vs EMG118 — Compare
EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG S/S/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
The S/S/81 features a high-output 81 bridge pickup optimized for aggressive metal and hard rock, while the S/S/85 prioritizes balanced midrange presence and articulation across classic rock, fusion, and modern metal. Choose the 81 for maximum bridge aggression; choose the 85 for tonal versatility and midrange focus.
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EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
EMG S/S/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG S/S/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $279.00 | $279.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG S/S/81 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ High-output 81 bridge humbucker delivers aggressive punch ideal for lead work and heavy riffing
- ✓ 1.63 kHz resonant frequency provides cutting response suited to metal and hard rock
- ✓ Lower price tier makes it accessible for budget-conscious players upgrading to active pickups
Why choose EMG S/S/85 Active Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ 85 bridge humbucker offers balanced, articulate high-gain voice with pronounced midrange
- ✓ Extended headroom and minimal feedback across wider range of playing dynamics
- ✓ Focused output provides better tonal definition in fusion and classic rock applications
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup set is better for metal?
Both suit metal, but the S/S/81 is optimized specifically for metal with its high-output 81 bridge humbucker and aggressive 1.63 kHz resonant frequency. The S/S/85 is equally capable in modern metal but adds more midrange presence, making it better for fusion and classic rock crossover applications.
What's the main difference between the 81 and 85 bridge pickups?
The 81 delivers higher output and a brighter, more aggressive cutting response for lead work. The 85 provides a more balanced, articulate high-gain voice with enhanced midrange, offering better tonal definition across varied playing styles.
Do both sets include everything needed for installation?
Yes, both include complete wiring harnesses, volume and tone pots, selector switch, output jack, pickup cables, battery cable, and mounting hardware. Both use EMG's solderless connectors to simplify installation.
Which offers better noise rejection?
Both feature active circuitry with noise rejection and operate on a standard 9V battery. The S/S/85 explicitly emphasizes extended headroom and minimal microphonic feedback across wider playing dynamics, making it slightly more refined in high-gain scenarios.