EMG3307 vs EMG3308 — Compare
EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White vs EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 81 is a higher-output aggressor optimized for maximum punch and upper-midrange bite in metal and hard rock, while the EMG 85 is a more balanced, articulate workhorse that sits cleaner in mixes across multiple genres. Choose the 81 for maximum aggression and cutting power; choose the 85 for versatility and controlled clarity.
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EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White | EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in White
- ✓ Higher RMS output (3.00V vs 3.10V peak distinction) delivers more headroom and punch into amplifiers
- ✓ 1.63 kHz resonant peak emphasizes upper-midrange bite and aggressive lead articulation
- ✓ Ceramic magnet design optimized specifically for metal, djent, and thrash applications
- ✓ Peak output of 4.50V provides maximum signal authority and sustain
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Alnico 5 magnet produces warmer, more balanced tone suitable across hard rock, metal, and studio work
- ✓ 1870 Hz resonant frequency avoids excessive treble harshness while maintaining clarity
- ✓ Lower noise floor (-101 dBV vs -100 dBV) and supports up to 27V DC for high-headroom rigs
- ✓ Slightly lower current draw and more conservative output fit tighter mixes without dominating
Frequently asked questions
What is the key tonal difference between these two pickups?
The 81 has a ceramic magnet and 1.63 kHz peak that emphasizes upper-midrange bite and aggressive articulation, making it ideal for metal and djent. The 85 uses Alnico 5 and peaks at 1870 Hz for a warmer, more balanced tone that avoids treble harshness while maintaining clarity across frequencies.
Which pickup has higher output?
The 81 produces 3.00V RMS with a 4.50V peak, while the 85 produces 3.10V RMS with a 4.50V peak. The 81 is optimized for aggressive attack, whereas the 85 is designed for controlled, articulate response despite similar peak ratings.
Are these pickups suitable for jazz or blues?
Neither is ideal for traditional jazz or blues. The 81 is specifically designed for metal and hard rock aggression. The 85 is more versatile than the 81 but still voices toward modern hard rock and metal rather than the warmth and sustain preferred in jazz and blues.
Do both pickups use the same power system and installation method?
Yes, both run on a single 9V battery with approximately 3000 hours of battery life, 80 µA current draw, and solderless installation. The 85 additionally supports supply voltages up to 27V DC for extended headroom in high-current rigs, which the 81 does not mention.