EMG4864 vs EMG4865 — Compare
EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 85X emphasizes focused midrange clarity and articulation with medium output, ideal for metal and progressive players who need definition in dense mixes. The EMG 60X prioritizes full treble response and higher output with controlled lows, better suited for rock and metal players seeking versatility across clean and driven tones.
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EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Alnico V magnet delivers punchy, defined response optimized for single-note clarity
- ✓ 1.91 kHz resonant frequency focuses midrange for cutting through heavy mixes
- ✓ 25K Active VLPF Tone Pot provides precision high-end control without muddying tone
- ✓ Medium output balances aggression with articulation in high-gain contexts
Why choose EMG 60X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Ceramic magnets and close aperture coils produce full, articulate treble across all playing dynamics
- ✓ Higher output with noise rejection for consistent performance in studio and live settings
- ✓ Balanced midrange character works equally well in clean and driven applications
- ✓ Split shaft controls and revised preamp offer refined, modern active humbucker performance
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for metal?
Both suit metal, but they emphasize different strengths. The 85X excels in dense, high-gain mixes where focused midrange cuts through without harshness. The 60X offers higher output and full treble response for a brighter, more articulate metal tone. Your choice depends on whether you prefer midrange definition (85X) or treble clarity and output (60X).
What's the key tonal difference?
The 85X uses an Alnico V magnet with a resonant peak at 1.91 kHz, emphasizing articulate midrange and controlled treble. The 60X uses ceramic magnets with close aperture coils, delivering full treble response and balanced midrange. The 85X leans toward definition and punch; the 60X leans toward articulate brightness and output.
Are both beginner-friendly to install?
Yes. Both use EMG's Solderless Install System with push-fit terminals, requiring no soldering. The 85X ships with a complete wiring harness including pots and jacks. The 60X also includes split shaft volume and tone controls, output jack, and battery components. Both are straightforward retrofits for standard humbucker routes.
Which has higher output?
The EMG 60X delivers higher output than the 85X's medium output. If you need more drive and signal strength, the 60X is the stronger choice. The 85X's medium output prioritizes clarity and articulation over raw volume.