EMG7551 vs EMG7606 — Compare
EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in White vs EMG 35HZ Passive Soapbar Pickup in Red
The P85 is an active guitar humbucker for vintage-voiced rock and blues, while the 35HZ is a passive bass soapbar for jazz and funk—they're designed for completely different instruments. Choose the P85 if you're upgrading a guitar for warm, articulate tone; choose the 35HZ if you need a reliable passive bass pickup.
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EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in White
Specs side by side
| EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in White | EMG 35HZ Passive Soapbar Pickup in Red | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG P85 Long Shaft Active P90-Size Humbucker Pickup in White
- ✓ Alnico V magnet delivers warm vintage character with modern active reliability
- ✓ Works across wide 9V–27V supply range without circuit modification
- ✓ Articulate midrange and controlled highs ideal for blues and rock
- ✓ Long battery life (approximately 3000 hours) with integrated tone controls
Why choose EMG 35HZ Passive Soapbar Pickup in Red
- ✓ Passive design requires no batteries or active electronics
- ✓ Compact soapbar form factor fits modern bass guitar routing
- ✓ Ceramic/steel magnet provides stable, predictable low-end response
- ✓ Solderless connectors simplify installation and future modifications
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these pickups interchangeably?
No. The P85 is designed for electric guitars in P-90 style housings, while the 35HZ is engineered specifically for 4-string bass guitars with soapbar routing. They serve different instruments entirely.
Which pickup is more beginner-friendly?
The 35HZ is more beginner-friendly because it is passive and requires no battery management or active circuit knowledge. The P85 requires understanding 9V battery operation and active electronics, making it better suited for intermediate players and above.
What is the key tonal difference?
The P85 emphasizes warm vintage character with articulate midrange suited for guitar-based blues and rock, while the 35HZ provides balanced, resonant bass tone optimized for low-end clarity in jazz and funk applications.
How long do these pickups typically last?
The P85's active electronics provide approximately 3000 hours of battery life before requiring replacement; the passive 35HZ has no battery and will outlast the P85 indefinitely as a purely mechanical component.