EMG85 vs EMG86 — Compare

EMG P6 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black vs EMG P6 Split Shaft 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

Both are budget-tier EMG P6 active 6-string pickups with identical electrical specs and battery life, but the Split Shaft model uses a split-coil design for tighter lows, while the standard P6 uses a short, squat coil optimized for tight spacing. Choose the Split Shaft for aggressive funk and progressive styles demanding low-end punch; choose the standard P6 if you prioritize transparent midrange clarity and have space constraints.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG P6 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

$119.00
View EMG P6 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

EMG P6 Split Shaft 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

$119.00
View EMG P6 Split Shaft 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

Specs side by side

EMG P6 6-String Active Bass Pickup in BlackEMG P6 Split Shaft 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black
Price$119.00$119.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG P6 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Compact short, squat coil fits tighter string spacing configurations
  • ✓ Transparent midrange focus ideal for studio precision and jazz nuance
  • ✓ Punchy attack with controlled output prevents preamp saturation

Why choose EMG P6 Split Shaft 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Split-coil design delivers tight, focused low-end response
  • ✓ High output voltage scales well for aggressive playing dynamics
  • ✓ Excels in funk and progressive genres demanding punch and definition
Bottom line: Choose the standard EMG P6 if you need midrange transparency and work in tight spacing; choose the Split Shaft P6 if you play aggressive funk or progressive and want tighter low-end control.

Frequently asked questions

What is the practical difference in tone between these two pickups?

The standard P6 emphasizes articulate mids and transparent definition through its short, squat coil design. The Split Shaft model prioritizes tight low-end response while maintaining midrange clarity, making it better suited for heavier, more aggressive playing styles.

Are the electrical specs and battery life identical?

Yes. Both deliver 2.00 V (finger/thumb) and 4.50 V (thump), operate at 80 microamps @ 9V with 3000-hour battery life, share a 3.20 kHz resonant frequency, and maintain -106 dB noise floors.

Which pickup is better for studio session work?

The standard P6 is generally preferred for studio sessions because its transparent midrange and focused definition work well for capturing nuanced playing across jazz, funk, and pop contexts.

Do both fit the same string spacing?

Yes. Both accommodate maximum string spacing of 3 inches (76 mm), fitting most modern six-string bass configurations.

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