EMG4595 vs EMG4596 — Compare
EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81 is a tighter, more aggressive pickup optimized for extreme metal and drop tunings with minimal noise, while the EMG 85 offers higher output and more versatility across high-gain styles and cleaner tones. Choose the 81 for maximum clarity and noise rejection in djent and metal; choose the 85 if you want more punch and dynamic range across diverse playing styles.
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EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Lower output noise (-91 dBV) for absolute cleanliness in extreme gain settings
- ✓ Tighter low end with 2.25 kHz resonance emphasizes cutting midrange attack
- ✓ Lighter current draw (80 microamps) for extended battery life in minimal-use scenarios
- ✓ Purpose-built for drop tunings and aggressive picking articulation
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Higher output voltage (3.1V string / 4.5V full strum) delivers more headroom and punch
- ✓ Superior noise rejection at -101 dB at 60 Hz for cleaner operation in studio and live settings
- ✓ Alnico V magnet with close-aperture design provides more tonal color and versatility
- ✓ 1.87 kHz resonance balances aggression with articulate note definition across cleaner and high-gain contexts
Frequently asked questions
What's the main sonic difference between these pickups?
The 81 emphasizes a 2.25 kHz peak for aggressive midrange clarity and cutting articulation, while the 85's 1.87 kHz peak sits lower, blending punch with transparency. The 85 also delivers significantly higher output (3.1–4.5V vs. 1.75V), making it better suited for players who want more dynamic range and headroom.
Which is better for heavy metal and djent?
The EMG 81 is purpose-built for extreme metal and drop tunings with its tighter low end and higher midrange presence. The 85 works well for metal too but sacrifices some of that laser-focused tightness in favor of more output and versatility.
How do noise floors compare?
The 85 has superior noise rejection at -101 dB versus the 81's -91 dB. However, the 81's spec is still exceptional and perfectly adequate for heavy music; the difference becomes noticeable mainly in ultra-high-gain studio settings or extensive touring scenarios.
Can I use these in the same guitar?
Yes—both are long-shaft humbuckers with 19mm shafts, 78mm mounting screw spacing, and solderless connectivity. They swap directly without modification, so you can trial both if needed.