EMG4605 vs EMG4606 — Compare
EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 85 delivers aggressive midrange punch and higher output (4.5V strummed) optimized for metal and hard rock, while the EMG 60 offers a more balanced, controlled tone (3.5V strummed) that sits cleaner in mixes for rock and fusion. Choose the 85 if you need raw presence and sustain; choose the 60 if you want articulate clarity without midrange coloration.
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EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85 Long Shaft Burshed Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Higher output voltage (4.5V strummed vs 3.5V) for greater amp drive and sustain
- ✓ Aggressive midrange punch with resonant peak at 1.87 kHz tailored for metal and hard rock
- ✓ Alnico V magnet delivers more character and resonance than ceramic alternatives
Why choose EMG 60 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Balanced tonal signature sits well in a mix without excessive midrange coloration
- ✓ Tighter low end and controlled output ideal for rhythm clarity and precision
- ✓ Ceramic magnet and 2.95 kHz resonance suit fusion and modern rock without aggression
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup works better for drop tunings and heavy music?
The EMG 85 is purpose-built for metal with its aggressive midrange and higher output voltage, providing tighter low-end definition and more sustain under heavy tuning. The EMG 60's controlled output and balanced character are less optimized for extreme tuning scenarios.
What's the real difference in output, and does it matter?
The EMG 85 outputs 4.5V on strummed chords versus the EMG 60's 3.5V—roughly 1V more. This extra headroom drives tube amps harder, increases natural overdrive breakup, and improves lead articulation. The 60 still provides adequate gain but favors cleaner, more controlled responses.
Are these pickups suitable for studio use?
Both are listed for studio sessions. The EMG 85 excels when you need presence and aggression to cut through dense arrangements; the EMG 60 is preferable if your mix is already saturated or you're recording cleaner, articulate parts that must remain distinct.
How long does the battery last, and is installation difficult?
Both pickups draw 80 mA at 9V and deliver roughly 3,000 hours (four months) of daily playing per battery. Both use solderless 2-wire connectivity, making installation straightforward for intermediate and advanced players without soldering experience.