EMG4604 vs EMG4605 — Compare
EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81 targets maximum aggression and articulation with a tighter, more focused character and higher midrange peak (1630 Hz), while the EMG 85 offers a slightly warmer, more balanced tone with lower midrange presence (1.87 kHz) and Alnico V magnet construction. Choose the 81 for extreme high-gain metal; choose the 85 for versatility across metal, hard rock, and studio work.
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EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 81 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed 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 Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Higher midrange peak (1630 Hz) delivers maximum clarity and definition in thick gain
- ✓ Ceramic magnet construction provides aggressive punch and tighter low-end response
- ✓ Slightly lower output impedance at 10 kΩ with marginally better noise floor
- ✓ Best-in-class for thrash and extreme metal applications
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Alnico V magnet adds warmth and musicality; more versatile across metal, hard rock, and progressive styles
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (1.87 kHz) balances presence with smoother high-end articulation
- ✓ Covered design reduces electromagnetic interference in studio and live environments
- ✓ Tolerates dual-battery and higher-voltage systems (up to 27 V DC) for expanded rig flexibility
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between these two pickups?
The EMG 81 peaks higher in the midrange (1630 Hz) for maximum clarity and aggressive definition; the EMG 85 sits lower (1.87 KHz) with Alnico V construction for a warmer, more balanced tone. The 81 excels at extreme high-gain; the 85 offers versatility across multiple genres.
Are the output levels significantly different?
Output is nearly identical: both deliver 3.0–3.1 V on string attack and 4.5 V on full strum. The 81 uses ceramic magnets for tighter lows; the 85 uses Alnico V for smoother, more musical response.
Which is better for studio recording?
The EMG 85's covered design, lower resonant frequency, and balanced Alnico V character make it ideal for studio tracking. The 81 is more specialized for extreme live high-gain applications.
Do both work with dual-battery rigs?
The EMG 85 explicitly tolerates voltages up to 27 V DC for dual-battery systems; the EMG 81 specification does not mention this feature, so verify your dual-battery configuration with the 81.