EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3998
Description
EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 85 is a high-output active humbucker engineered for studio clarity and controlled punch across the frequency spectrum. This solderless design integrates cleanly into bridge or neck positions, delivering the articulate, centered response that makes EMG active pickups the choice for recording professionals tracking everything from rock to metal. The brushed chrome finish pairs refined aesthetics with proven studio performance.
Tone & Output Characteristics
With a resonant frequency of 1870 Hz, the 85 anchors its response in the midrange while preserving upper-end definition—ideal for sitting clearly in a dense mix without muddiness or harshness. Output measures 3.10 V RMS and 4.50 V peak, providing substantial gain and headroom without excessive noise—the –101 dBV output noise floor ensures pristine signal transmission through your interface, preamp, or mixing console.
Power & Installation
The pickup runs on a single 9 V battery rated for 3000 hours of continuous operation, and the solderless 2-wire plus battery connection streamlines installation and future modifications. Current draw sits at 80 µA @ 9V, maximizing battery longevity across extended recording and rehearsal sessions.
Key Features
- Alnico 5 magnet for focused, responsive tone
- Stainless steel cap construction
- 3.10 V RMS / 4.50 V peak output
- –101 dBV output noise specification
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 9 V battery power source
- 3000-hour battery life
- 1870 Hz resonant frequency
- Solderless connection with 2-wire plus battery interface
- Bridge or neck position compatibility
- Includes 25k volume and 25k tone potentiometers, battery bus, stereo output socket, two pickup in/out bus connections, mounting hardware, and all necessary cables
- Brushed chrome finish
The EMG 85 merges transparent signal integrity with the practical advantages of active electronics—fast wiring, extended battery life, and the noise immunity that professional recording sessions and studio tracking demand.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85 is a high-output active humbucker engineered for studio recording, offering articulate midrange focus and exceptional signal-to-noise performance that translates cleanly to any mixing console or interface. Its –101 dBV noise floor and controlled frequency response (centered at 1870 Hz) let you capture punchy, defined tones without hum or unwanted artifacts. The solderless installation and extended battery life make it a practical choice for session work and tracking, especially in hard rock and metal production.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Studio Sessions, Live Performance, Touring, Hard Rock, Metal |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, articulate, controlled, midrange-focused, clean signal |
| Less specialized for | Folk, Jazz (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the EMG 85 and the EMG 81?
The 85 has a lower resonant frequency (1870 Hz vs. the 81's higher focus) and delivers warmer, more articulate midrange response while maintaining similar output and noise performance. The 85 works well in both bridge and neck positions, whereas the 81 is traditionally a bridge pickup.
How long does the battery last, and how do I install this pickup?
The 9V battery runs for approximately 3000 hours of continuous operation, and installation is solderless—the 2-wire plus battery connection clips together without any soldering required. A full install takes minutes, and you can swap it out just as quickly.
Will this pickup work in my guitar, and what positions can I use it in?
The EMG 85 fits any standard humbucker routing and works in bridge or neck position. It includes mounting hardware and all necessary cables; compatibility depends on your guitar's existing routing and electronics cavity.
What's included in the box?
The package includes the pickup with brushed chrome finish, a 9V battery, 25k volume and tone potentiometers, battery bus, stereo output socket, two pickup in/out bus connections, mounting hardware, and all necessary cables.
Is this pickup good for jazz or acoustic-style playing?
The EMG 85 is voiced for hard rock and metal and delivers high output and punchy midrange response. It's not designed for jazz or folk applications and will sound aggressive in those genres.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.