EMG 85 Long Shaft 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
- EMG4599
Description
EMG 85 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 85 is a versatile active humbucker that captures clarity with body across the frequency spectrum. Its mid-focused character tracks accurately in bridge or neck positions, recording articulate highs and controlled lows without sacrificing punch. This brushed chrome model pairs aggressive aesthetics with the solderless convenience that streamlines studio setup and quick instrument swaps during sessions.
Recording Tone & Output Performance
With a resonant frequency of 2.55 kHz, the EMG 85 sits in the upper-midrange sweet spot for definition and presence in dense mixes. The 1.25V RMS output and 1.75V peak output deliver enough headroom to drive recording interfaces cleanly and maintain clarity through layered guitar arrangements, while the -89 dBV output noise floor keeps unwanted hum minimal during overdubs and direct recordings.
Electronics & Studio Workflow
Solderless connection design eliminates the need for professional wiring, letting you swap or install pickups without session downtime. The pickup runs on a single 9V battery with exceptional efficiency—drawing only 80 microamps for a rated battery life of 3000 hours—so your instrument stays powered through full tracking days. The 10 kΩ output impedance ensures compatibility with audio interfaces, amp simulations, and standard studio signal chains.
Key Features
- Resonant Frequency: 2.55 kHz
- RMS Output Voltage: 1.25V
- Peak Output Voltage: 1.75V
- Output Noise: -89 dBV
- Output Impedance: 10 kΩ
- Current Draw: 80 microamps at 9V
- Battery Life: 3000 hours on single 9V battery
- Magnet Material: Alnico V
- Cover: Stainless steel brushed chrome finish
- Solderless connection system
- Suitable for bridge or neck position
- Includes all installation components
The EMG 85 combines proven active electronics, efficient power management, and straightforward installation into a dependable studio pickup for producers and engineers tracking midrange definition and consistent output across multiple takes and overdubs.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85 is a versatile active humbucker with upper-midrange focus that sits perfectly in dense, high-gain mixes without getting lost or muddied. Its 1.25V RMS output and low noise floor (-89 dBV) make it ideal for tracking metal and progressive recordings, delivering warmth and definition that cuts through compression and saturation. Install it via solderless connection, run it on a single 9V battery for 3000 hours, and enjoy a reliable pickup that translates well across overdub and reamping sessions.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, High-Gain Recording |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Mid-focused, articulate highs, controlled lows, high output, clarity through gain |
| 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 this myself, or do I need a tech?
The EMG 85 uses a solderless connection system, so no soldering is required—you can install it directly into your guitar with basic tools. The pickup includes all necessary installation components.
How often will I need to change the battery?
The single 9V battery lasts approximately 3000 hours on a charge, which translates to months of regular playing. The pickup draws only 80 microamps, making battery life exceptional for an active design.
Is the EMG 85 better for bridge or neck position?
The mid-focused character and balanced articulation make it equally suitable for both positions. Many players use it as a bridge pickup for aggressive tones or as a neck pickup for warm, defined lead work.
How does the EMG 85 compare to the EMG 81?
The 85 has a more mid-focused, warmer tone compared to the 81's brighter character, making it more versatile across bridge and neck positions while maintaining clarity through high-gain circuits.
Will this pickup work well with heavy distortion and effects?
Yes—the 1.75V peak output and -89 dBV noise floor are designed to maintain clarity and definition through high-gain recording and live environments, with minimal hum even in demanding signal chains.
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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