EMG3648 vs EMG4087 — Compare
EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Red vs EMG H Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 85 is a dual-coil active humbucker optimized for tight, controlled low-end and metal tones, while the EMG H is a single-coil design in humbucker format emphasizing articulate highs and modern clarity. Choose the 85 for aggressive genres requiring defined bottom-end punch; choose the H for studio work and modern rock where high-frequency articulation and ease of installation matter more.
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EMG H Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Red | EMG H Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Red
- ✓ Exceptional battery life: 3000 hours vs. 600 hours on the H
- ✓ Tighter low-end response with dual-coil humbucker design
- ✓ Lower power draw (80 microamps) for longer intervals between battery changes
- ✓ Resonant frequency optimized for controlled sustain in high-gain contexts
Why choose EMG H Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Long-shaft configuration accommodates deeper or non-standard control cavities
- ✓ Higher resonant frequency (4.05 kHz) emphasizes articulate highs and modern tone
- ✓ Includes Quik-Connect cable and battery clip for solderless installation
- ✓ Single-coil character in humbucker format offers tonal flexibility without rewiring
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has better battery life?
The EMG 85 delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life compared to the EMG H's 600 hours. The 85 draws only 80 microamps versus the H's 400 microamps, making it far more efficient for players who rarely change batteries.
What's the main tonal difference between these two?
The EMG 85 emphasizes tight, controlled low-end and midrange (1870 Hz resonant frequency) suitable for metal and high-gain. The EMG H prioritizes articulate highs and punchy midrange (4.05 kHz resonant frequency) better suited to modern rock and studio recording.
Is the EMG H easier to install?
Yes. The EMG H includes a Quik-Connect cable and battery clip for solderless installation, whereas the 85 does not mention this convenience. The H's long-shaft design also fits deeper or non-standard control cavities without modification.
Which pickup cuts through a dense mix better in a band setting?
The EMG 85's dual-coil design with controlled midrange and tight low-end is specifically engineered for clarity in high-gain, densely layered mixes. The EMG H's emphasis on articulate highs works better in studio and moderate-gain contexts.