EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4323
Description
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 85X is a high-output active humbucker engineered to capture articulate midrange punch and extended frequency response in the studio. This pickup delivers a tight, defined attack with controlled sustain—essential for tracking modern rock, metal, and fusion productions where precision and clarity must cut through heavy gain without muddiness or phase issues in the mix.
Tone & Electronics
Built around an Alnico V magnet, the 85X produces a 1.25V RMS output with exceptional headroom for distortion circuits and console preamps. The 1.87 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes upper-midrange articulation, translating pick attacks and string definition directly to the recording chain. This presence peak ensures your tracked takes maintain clarity and focus in dense arrangements without losing the low-end authority that defines the EMG sound signature.
Design & Installation
The brushed black chrome finish integrates seamlessly into any studio guitar setup. Solderless installation streamlines setup and teardown during multi-take sessions—simply connect the 1/4" stereo jack and insert the included 9V battery, which delivers 3000 hours of runtime at a minimal 80 microamps current draw, ensuring consistent performance throughout extended recording days.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet for warm, defined tone
- 1.25V RMS output with 1.75V peak voltage
- 1.87 kHz resonant frequency for articulate midrange presence
- Brushed Black Chrome finish
- Solderless installation — no soldering required
- 1/4" stereo jack connector
- 10K DC resistance
- -89 dBV output noise floor
- 9V battery powered with 3000-hour battery life
- 6-string configuration
- Compatible with bridge or neck position
- 10 Kohm output impedance
The EMG 85X combines active electronics reliability with the tonal character recording professionals have trusted for capturing focused, articulate performances in the studio.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is an active humbucker engineered to deliver articulate midrange presence and controlled sustain in recording sessions, especially for modern rock, metal, and fusion productions where clarity through heavy processing matters. Its 1.25V RMS output provides exceptional headroom for overdrive and distortion layering, while the warm, defined Alnico V tone sits well in dense mixes without muddiness. Quick solderless installation and long battery life make it practical for session work and iterative recording setups.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Fusion
- ✓ Modern Rock
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pickup suitable for drop-tuned and extended-range metal?
Yes. The 85X's tight low-end response and high output (1.25V RMS) are designed to maintain clarity and definition in heavy gain contexts, including drop tunings and modern metal applications. The Alnico V magnet and upper-midrange emphasis help prevent mud and keep articulation even at extreme volumes.
Can I install this without soldering?
Yes. The 85X features solderless installation with a 1/4" stereo jack connector. You simply connect the jack and insert the included 9V battery—no soldering required.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The included 9V battery delivers approximately 3000 hours of runtime at an 80 microamp current draw, which translates to roughly 4 months of continuous use or several years of typical gigging and practice.
What is the difference between the 85X and the standard EMG 85?
The 85X features an upgraded design with extended frequency response, a resonant peak at 1.87 kHz for enhanced upper-midrange articulation, and improved output dynamics. It shares the same core Alnico V character but delivers more defined attack and clarity through gain stages.
Can I use this in both bridge and neck positions?
Yes. The 85X is compatible with either bridge or neck position in 6-string guitars, allowing flexible configuration depending on your tone preferences and existing setup.
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. 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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