EMG4602 vs EMG4603 — Compare
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 85 is hotter and more aggressive with tighter lows and crisp highs, designed for maximum articulation in extreme high-gain contexts; the EMG 60 is smoother and more versatile, balancing output with refined midrange clarity for rock, metal, and fusion across studio and live settings. Choose the 85 if you prioritize note separation and feedback control in drop tunings; choose the 60 if you want a balanced workhorse that translates well across genres and recording scenarios.
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EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Higher output (1.25V RMS vs 1.0V RMS) delivers more aggression and sustain
- ✓ Tighter low-end definition ideal for drop tunings and extreme high-gain rigs
- ✓ Crisp, focused high-mid presence maximizes note separation in dense mixes
- ✓ Controlled feedback characteristics essential for metal and progressive applications
Why choose EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Lower output noise floor (-89 dBV) ensures cleaner studio recording and high-fidelity capture
- ✓ Smoother, more articulate midrange suits rock, metal, and fusion equally well
- ✓ Ceramic magnet provides warmer, more rounded character than Alnico V
- ✓ Versatile tone balances cut and clarity without sacrificing smoothness across genres
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for drop tunings and extreme downtuning?
The EMG 85 is purpose-built for drop tunings, with its higher output voltage (1.25V RMS) and tighter low-end definition that maintains clarity even at E-flat or lower tunings. The EMG 60's smoother response is less aggressive but still capable; choose the 85 if tightness and articulation in extreme registers is your priority.
Which one is quieter for studio recording?
The EMG 60 specifies a -89 dBV output noise floor, making it technically superior for noise-sensitive studio work. Both use the same 80 microamp battery draw, but the 60's lower noise spec makes it the safer choice for professional recording where clean signal matters.
Can I use either pickup for rock and fusion?
Yes, both work in rock and fusion. The EMG 60 is explicitly designed as a versatile workhorse for these styles, offering articulate midrange and smooth treble. The EMG 85 is more specialized toward metal aggression and note separation, so it will sound more aggressive and less warm in classic rock or jazz-fusion contexts.
What is the main tone difference between Alnico V and ceramic magnets?
The EMG 85's Alnico V magnet produces a brighter, more articulate response with crisp highs, while the EMG 60's ceramic magnet delivers a warmer, more rounded character with smooth treble. The 85 emphasizes presence and bite; the 60 emphasizes balance and musicality.