EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG2880
Description
EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG 85 captures articulate, punchy tone with clarity that cuts through dense mixes and high-gain tracking. This active humbucker balances tight low-end definition with smooth midrange presence, tracking cleanly in bridge or neck position across a wide range of genres and recording applications. The solderless Quik-Connect system simplifies installation and lets you swap pickups without soldering, keeping studio downtime to a minimum.
Tone & Electronics
The pickup's Alnico V magnet housed in a stainless steel cap produces a resonant frequency of 1870 Hz, yielding focused articulation and reduced mud in the low frequencies that translates to cleaner recordings and better separation in the mix. With 10 kΩ DC resistance, 3.10 V RMS output, and 4.50 V peak output, the EMG 85 generates sufficient signal to drive preamps and interfaces hard without unwanted compression or saturation, paired with a noise floor of -101 dBV for pristine silent operation during overdubs.
Power & Installation
A single 9 V battery powers the active circuit with an exceptional 3000-hour battery life, translating to years of typical recording sessions without battery swaps. The included prewired split-shaft volume and tone control set, output jack, and battery clip streamline installation, while the Quik-Connect cable eliminates soldering entirely for quick mounting and removal between takes or sessions.
Key Features
- Active humbucker with Alnico V magnets in stainless steel cap
- 10 kΩ DC resistance for balanced output and responsiveness
- 3.10 V RMS / 4.50 V peak output voltage
- Resonant frequency: 1870 Hz
- Output noise: -101 dBV (silent operation)
- 9 V battery powered with 3000-hour battery life
- Current draw: 80 µA
- Solderless Quik-Connect connectivity for tool-free installation
- Chrome cover finish
- Suitable for bridge or neck position
- Made in USA
- Includes prewired volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip, and mounting hardware
The EMG 85 remains a studio and live workhorse, combining modern active-circuit reliability with time-tested tonal character that demands minimal maintenance and maximum dependability.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85 active humbucker captures articulate, punchy tone with focused low-end and smooth mids that sit cleanly in dense mixes without mud, making it a reliable choice for recording metal, hard rock, and progressive tracks. Its high output (3.10 V RMS / 4.50 V peak) drives preamps and interfaces with authority, while a silent noise floor (-101 dBV) keeps recording sessions noise-free. Install it in minutes using the tool-free Quik-Connect system, and the 3000-hour battery life means you'll focus on tracking, not maintenance.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, Live Performance |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate, punchy, tight low end, smooth midrange, high output |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install the EMG 85 without soldering?
Yes. The pickup uses EMG's solderless Quik-Connect cable system and comes with a prewired volume/tone control set, output jack, and battery clip, so installation requires no soldering tools or skills.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The battery provides approximately 3000 hours of typical playing time, which translates to roughly 1–2 years of regular use before replacement.
Can I use the EMG 85 in both bridge and neck positions?
Yes, the EMG 85 is designed to work equally well in bridge or neck position across a wide range of playing styles.
What genres is the EMG 85 best suited for?
The EMG 85 excels in metal, hard rock, and progressive music, as well as studio sessions and live performance. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk.
How does the EMG 85 compare to the EMG 81?
The EMG 85 produces a slightly warmer, more balanced tone with smoother midrange presence compared to the 81, making it more versatile for both bridge and neck positions while maintaining the same active-circuit reliability and low noise.
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.
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