EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4150
Description
EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 85-8XH brings the legendary warmth and clarity of EMG's 85 platform to extended-range 8-string instruments, delivering articulate mids and controlled highs without sacrificing low-end definition. This active humbucker excels in both high-gain and moderate-gain applications, responding to pick dynamics with precision while maintaining tight, focused output across the full frequency spectrum. The gold finish adds visual distinction to premium instrument builds.
Recording & Mix Performance
The 85-8XH combines EMG's signature warm, mid-forward voicing with the extended frequency response necessary for 8-string tunings. Active circuitry delivers hot, consistent output with low noise and excellent sustain, cutting through dense mixes with clarity and definition. Modern metal, progressive, and experimental music benefit from this pickup's ability to sit defined in the mix while maintaining both aggression and articulation across fast, complex passages.
Studio Integration & Reliability
Engineered specifically for 8-string instruments, this pickup maintains EMG's compact active design that minimizes inductance coloration and hum—critical for clean recording and post-production flexibility. The active electronics ensure reliable, consistent performance across tracking sessions, overdubs, and amp combinations, while the gold cosmetic finish complements both traditional and modern instrument aesthetics.
Key Features
- Active humbucker design with integrated preamp circuitry
- Sized and configured specifically for 8-string instruments
- Warm, mid-focused tone signature characteristic of the EMG 85 platform
- Controlled high-frequency response with articulate midrange presence
- Low noise floor and excellent rejection of external interference
- Consistent hot output across all playing dynamics
- Gold finish for visual distinction
- Battery-powered active electronics requiring standard 9V source
- Compatible with standard EMG 8-string mounting and wiring specifications
The 85-8XH stands as EMG's answer to extended-range players demanding the tonal balance and reliability that defines the brand's professional heritage.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-8XH is an active 8-string humbucker engineered to sit clearly in dense mixes, offering warm, mid-forward character with articulate presence that cuts through without harshness. Home producers and engineers working with extended-range instruments in metal, progressive, and experimental genres will appreciate the consistent hot output, low noise floor, and excellent pick-attack definition that translates well to recording and mixing. The compact active design minimizes coloration, making it a versatile choice for both high-gain and moderate-gain tracking sessions.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Extended Range
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Blues
- – Jazz
- – Traditional Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is the 85-8XH best suited for?
This pickup is designed for metal, progressive, extended-range, and studio session work where clarity and articulate mids are essential. It is not voiced for blues, jazz, or traditional folk applications.
How does the 85-8XH compare to other 8-string active pickups?
The 85-8XH draws on EMG's signature 85 platform, which emphasizes warm, mid-focused tone compared to alternatives like the Seymour Duncan Blackouts 8-String or DiMarzio D Sonic 8-String. It delivers articulate midrange and controlled highs while maintaining a tight low end.
What power source does this pickup require?
The 85-8XH is battery-powered active electronics and requires a standard 9V power source to operate.
Is the 85-8XH compatible with my 8-string instrument?
The 85-8XH is engineered specifically for 8-string instruments and is compatible with standard EMG 8-string mounting and wiring specifications. Verify your guitar's pickup cavity and wiring configuration before installation.
Does the gold finish affect the tone?
The gold finish is a cosmetic choice that adds visual distinction to your instrument build and does not affect tone or performance.
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 $11 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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