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EMG P81 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black
The P81 uses a ceramic magnet with a focused 2.0 kHz resonant peak for articulate vintage P90 tone, while the P85 pairs Alnico V magnets with a more general midrange punch suited to blues and rock. Choose the P81 for studio precision and semi-hollow builds; choose the P85 for players wanting classic P90 warmth and sensitivity in a straightforward rock or funk context.
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EMG P81 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG P81 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.00 | $109.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG P81 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Ceramic magnet and 2.0 kHz peak deliver focused, articulate vintage P90 character
- ✓ Extremely low -91 dB noise floor ideal for studio and noise-sensitive recording
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life per 9V cell reduces replacement frequency
- ✓ Fits P90 cavities without routing; standard 3.125" mounting hole spacing
Why choose EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Alnico V magnets provide harmonic richness and pick-attack sensitivity closer to true vintage P90 feel
- ✓ Midrange punch cuts through mix without muddiness in band contexts
- ✓ Simpler feature set makes it straightforward for blues, rock, and funk players
- ✓ Solderless installation with all necessary cables included for easy retrofit
Frequently asked questions
What is the main tonal difference between ceramic and Alnico V magnets in these pickups?
The P81's ceramic magnet produces a focused, articulate tone with a defined 2.0 kHz midrange peak suited to studio clarity. The P85's Alnico V magnets deliver warmer harmonic richness and greater sensitivity to pick dynamics, closer to a traditional vintage P90 character prized in blues and rock.
How much does battery life differ between the two?
The P81 specifies approximately 3000 hours per 9V battery, roughly doubling typical battery life in active pickups. The P85 does not publish a battery life specification, so you should assume standard active pickup consumption of 1000-1500 hours per cell.
Are both pickups solderless and fit standard P90 cavities?
Yes, both use EMG's solderless Quik-Connect system and fit standard P90 soapbar cavities with 3.125-inch mounting hole spacing. Both ship with cable kits, though neither includes a 9V battery.
Which pickup is quieter for studio recording?
The P81 explicitly achieves a -91 dB noise floor, making it superior for noise-sensitive recording environments. The P85 specs do not mention noise floor, so the P81 is the more technical choice for studio work where noise rejection matters.