EMG4863 vs EMG4864 — Compare
EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The 81X is a high-output aggressor designed for maximum punch and feedback rejection in extreme tunings, while the 85X balances articulation with controlled treble for versatility across high-gain and studio work. Choose the 81X if you want raw power and tight lows; choose the 85X if you prioritize clarity and tonal precision.
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EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Higher output (4.00V string / 8.50V strum) delivers more aggressive response and sustain
- ✓ Ceramic and steel magnet pairing provides tighter, more controlled low-end for drop tunings
- ✓ 1.72 kHz resonance emphasizes midrange punch for cutting through dense mixes
- ✓ Minimal feedback rejection ideal for high-gain metal applications
Why choose EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Alnico V magnet produces warmer, more defined articulation with natural musicality
- ✓ 25K Active VLPF Tone Pot offers precision high-end control without muddying tone
- ✓ Medium output strikes better balance between aggression and clarity for studio versatility
- ✓ Complete wiring harness included with Volume Pot, all cables, and battery components
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup handles drop tunings better?
The 81X is engineered specifically for drop tunings with its ceramic-steel magnet pairing and tight low-end control. The 85X works in drop tunings but prioritizes midrange clarity over extreme low-end tightness.
What is the main tonal difference between ceramic-steel and Alnico V magnets?
Ceramic-steel (81X) produces aggressive, focused articulation with minimal feedback; Alnico V (85X) delivers warmer, more defined punch with natural musicality and slightly softer response.
Does the 85X's tone pot make a significant practical difference?
Yes. The 25K Active VLPF Tone Pot on the 85X lets you dial back harsh treble without losing clarity—valuable for studio recording and tightening high-gain tones. The 81X has no tone shaping control.
Which pickup includes more installation hardware?
The 85X ships with a complete wiring harness including Volume Pot, battery components, and all cables; the 81X uses EMG's Solderless Quick-Connect but does not specify included hardware beyond the pickup itself.