EMG 85X 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
- EMG3317
Description
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG 85X is a modern active humbucker engineered to capture articulate, punchy tones with tight lows and controlled highs—ideal for tracking and mixing in the studio. This revised design pairs Alnico V magnets with a built-in preamp to generate consistent, noise-free signal across bridge and neck positions. The chrome cover delivers a professional appearance while the solderless quick-connect system enables fast swaps during session work without rewiring.
Recording Tone & Signal Character
Output measures 3.10V in single-note playing and 4.50V during strummed chords, delivering strong headroom for layered overdubs and effects processing. The 1.91 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes midrange clarity and definition—essential for guitar tones that cut through dense mixes and stand out in modern productions. The –108 dBV noise floor (60Hz) ensures clean, hum-free tracking, critical when stacking multiple takes and processing high-gain tones.
Session Reliability & Control
Powered by a standard 9V battery that runs approximately 3,000 hours on a single charge, with minimal 80 microamp current draw for extended studio sessions. The included split shaft volume and active tone control set allows on-the-fly adjustments between takes without circuit modification, and the 2.00 Kohm output impedance maintains signal integrity through long cable runs to your interface or console.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnets with close aperture coils
- Active pickup with revised built-in preamp
- Output: 3.10V (single note), 4.50V (strum)
- Output Impedance: 2.00 Kohm
- Resonant Frequency: 1.91 kHz
- Output Noise: –108 dBV (60Hz)
- 9V battery with 3000-hour battery life
- 80 microamp current draw, maximum supply 27V DC
- EMG solderless Quik-Connect system
- Includes split shaft volume/active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws and springs
- Bridge or neck position capable
- Chrome cover finish
The 85X balances aggressive output with articulation, delivering focused tones that record clearly and mix effectively across genres.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is a high-output active humbucker engineered to sit clearly in dense, distorted mixes while maintaining articulation and definition across note-to-note dynamics. Its 1.91 kHz resonant peak emphasizes midrange punch, and the –108 dBV noise floor keeps sessions clean even during high-gain overdubs or synth-layered heavy arrangements. The solderless installation and included tone control make it easy to drop into a recording rig, and the long battery life means uninterrupted studio hours.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ High-Gain Applications
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EMG 85X a good fit for metal and hard-rock applications?
Yes—it is purpose-built for metal, hard rock, progressive, and high-gain applications. The tight low end, controlled highs, and –108 dBV noise floor ensure clean, articulate output even under heavy distortion and complex effects chains. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk styles, where its aggressive character and high output would be less suitable.
How long does the 9V battery last, and is it easy to replace?
The battery runs approximately 3,000 hours on a single charge with minimal 80 microamp current draw. The included battery clip set makes replacement simple—no soldering required—so you can swap a fresh battery in seconds during a gig or session.
What output level should I expect, and will it work with my amp and effects?
The 85X generates 3.10V on single notes and 4.50V during strummed chords, providing strong headroom for overdriven amp stages and effects chains. Its 2.00 Kohm output impedance maintains signal integrity through long cable runs and integrates cleanly with standard guitar rigs.
Do I need to solder this pickup, or does it install easily?
No soldering needed. The EMG solderless Quik-Connect system allows straightforward installation and switching, and the included split shaft volume and active tone control set can be dialed in without any wiring work.
Can I use the 85X in both bridge and neck positions?
Yes, the 85X is capable in both bridge and neck positions, giving you flexibility to upgrade one or both slots depending on your tonal goals.
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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