EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4428
Description
EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 85-8H is a purpose-built active humbucker for 8-string instruments, engineered to capture clarity and articulation across extended range tunings. This bridge or neck position pickup delivers tight, focused response with a minimal noise floor—critical for modern production work and session recording where string separation and individual note definition cut through the mix without phase coloration.
Tone & Recording Performance
Built on Alnico V magnets, the 85-8H produces a warm, musical midrange character that sits naturally in dense mixes and supports punch without harshness. Output measures 3.10 V RMS with 4.50 V peak, providing generous headroom into your preamp or interface without signal degradation. The -101 dBV noise floor and 1870 Hz resonant frequency ensure articulate highs and controlled lows across all eight strings, while 10 kΩ output impedance maintains consistent signal integrity through studio cable runs and interface inputs.
Power & Studio Integration
This active design runs on a single 9V battery rated for 3000 hours of use, allowing extended tracking sessions between battery changes. Installation is streamlined by the included Solderless Install System, which eliminates traditional wiring in favor of quick-disconnect connectors—reducing setup time and simplifying future modifications or pickups swaps. The package includes a split shaft volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs—all components needed for immediate studio deployment.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet construction for warm, defined tone
- 3.10 V RMS output / 4.50 V peak output
- -101 dBV output noise specification
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 1870 Hz resonant frequency
- 80 µA current draw at 9V
- Single 9V battery power source
- 3000-hour battery life rating
- Solderless Install System included
- Brushed black chrome finish
- 8-string configuration
- Includes volume/tone controls, output jack, battery clip, hardware
The EMG 85-8H combines the brand's proven active topology with 8-string voicing, delivering studio-grade noise rejection and harmonic control for extended-range recording and production.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-8H brings studio-grade noise rejection and harmonic control to 8-string recording sessions, delivering a warm midrange that sits well in dense mixes alongside tight, defined low end and transparent highs. Built on Alnico V magnets and active electronics, it captures extended-range tones with minimal noise floor and excellent string separation, making layered takes and heavy productions sound clean and articulate. The included Solderless Install System means you're ready to track in minutes, and the 3000-hour battery life keeps downtime out of your session schedule.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Extended Range
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pickup suitable for both bridge and neck positions?
Yes, the EMG 85-8H can be installed in bridge or neck position depending on your sonic needs. Bridge placement delivers maximum output and aggression; neck position offers a warmer, more controlled voice.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The 9V battery is rated for 3000 hours of use, which translates to roughly 4 months of typical gigging before replacement.
What's included in the package, and do I need soldering skills to install it?
The package includes the pickup, Solderless Install System with quick-disconnect connectors, volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs. No soldering required—the quick-disconnect system simplifies installation into a straightforward swap.
How does the 85-8H compare to the 81-8H?
The 85-8H uses Alnico V magnets and produces a warmer, more musical midrange character, while the 81-8H is brighter and more aggressive. Choose the 85-8H for focused, articulate response; the 81-8H for maximum treble and cut.
What tone should I expect with this pickup?
Expect a warm, defined midrange with articulate highs and tight low end across all eight strings. The -101 dBV noise floor and 1870 Hz resonant frequency deliver excellent string separation and minimal hum, ideal for modern metal and progressive music.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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