EMG 85 Active Single Coil 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
- EMG2921
Description
EMG 85 Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 85 captures a tight, focused attack with exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum, translating to clean, defined tracks at any recording level. This active humbucker pairs a low-noise design with responsive dynamics that track both subtle playing nuances and aggressive picking with equal precision. The gold finish and embossed EMG logo deliver a professional appearance that photographs well and suits high-end instrument builds.
Active Electronics & Power
Built around a 9V battery power source, the EMG 85 operates with exceptional efficiency—delivering 3000 hours of battery life before replacement. The 3.10V RMS output with peak voltage at 4.50V provides ample headroom for recording and mixing flexibility, while the -101 dBV noise floor keeps unwanted hum and interference virtually inaudible, even when stacking overdubs or applying high-gain processing in the DAW.
Recording Character & Magnetic Design
The Alnico 5 magnet provides warmth and definition while maintaining the aggressive character that cuts through dense arrangements. With a resonant frequency of 1870 Hz, the pickup emphasizes upper midrange presence and articulation, making it ideal for carving through layered mixes and delivering high-output performance in genre-driven sessions.
Key Features
- Active humbucker form-factor with recognizable gold embossed EMG logo
- 9V battery power source with 3000-hour battery life
- 3.10V RMS output voltage for consistent, predictable performance
- 4.50V peak output voltage for dynamic range and sustain
- -101 dBV output noise specification for ultra-quiet operation
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- 80 µA current draw @ 9V
- Alnico 5 magnet construction
- 1870 Hz resonant frequency for focused midrange presence
The EMG 85 remains a studio and session standard for producers and engineers prioritizing noise-free, articulate output and reliable active electronics across tracking and overdub work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85 is a professional-grade active humbucker engineered for recording sessions requiring noise-free, articulate output in high-gain genres and demanding mix environments. Its 3.10V RMS output and 4.50V peak voltage deliver consistent headroom and dynamic range, while the 1870 Hz resonant frequency emphasizes upper midrange presence that cuts through dense arrangements. Pick this for studio work where tight low end, focused attack, and virtually silent operation are non-negotiable.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, High-gain applications |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Tight low end, focused attack, articulate highs, low noise, high output |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'active' mean, and do I need a battery?
Active electronics use a 9V battery to power onboard amplification, giving you higher output, lower noise, and more control than passive pickups. The EMG 85 runs for approximately 3000 hours per battery, so replacement is infrequent and straightforward.
Is the EMG 85 good for blues or jazz?
No—the EMG 85 is designed for metal, hard rock, and high-gain applications where tight lows, articulate highs, and upper midrange presence are the priorities. For blues and jazz, warmer, more dynamic passive designs are a better fit.
How does the EMG 85 compare to the EMG 81?
The EMG 81 is slightly brighter and tighter; the 85 adds more warmth and low-end definition while maintaining the same active noise-free operation. Both excel in high-gain contexts; the 85 offers slightly more character and sustain.
What's the output voltage, and why does it matter?
The EMG 85 outputs 3.10V RMS with a 4.50V peak—significantly hotter than passive pickups—giving you more headroom, sustain, and presence in your amp without additional overdrive. This ensures consistent, predictable tone across high-gain and studio settings.
Will this pickup fit my guitar?
The EMG 85 uses standard humbucker routing and mounting. Confirm your guitar has standard humbucker cavity; if you're replacing a different pickup type, you may need routing or adapter rings.
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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