EMG 85X Active Humbucker 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
- EMG3318
Description
EMG 85X Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 85X captures punchy, articulate highs with the clarity and definition that modern active electronics provide in the recording chain. This revised design pairs the vintage warmth of AlNiCo 5 magnets with a refined preamp circuit, translating equally well through high-gain sources and clean recording channels. The gold-plated housing offers visual appeal while the compact footprint integrates seamlessly into most humbucker-routed instruments without compromising recording versatility.
Tone & Electronics Performance
A resonant frequency of 1.91 kHz positions the 85X in the sweet spot between brightness and body, capturing articulate transients without harshness in multitrack sessions. The 10 KΩ output impedance and revised active preamp deliver consistent signal integrity into recording interfaces, mixing chains, and effects processors, with a modest 80 mA draw at 9V ensuring extended battery life and minimal noise floor during long tracking days.
Installation & System Integration
The Quik-Connect solderless system streamlines instrument prep and fast swaps without soldering, critical for session flexibility and quick source changes during recording. The complete connectivity package includes dedicated volume and tone controls, battery management bus, and all necessary cables and connectors for immediate integration into multi-pickup configurations or standard single-pickup setups, enabling rapid repositioning within a session workflow.
Key Features
- AlNiCo 5 magnet type for warm, articulate tone
- Gold-plated steel housing
- Dimensions: 3.15 x 1.57 x 0.39 inches
- Active pickup with revised built-in preamp
- Resonant frequency: 1.91 kHz
- Output impedance: 10 KΩ
- Current draw: 80 mA @ 9V
- Battery life: 3000 hours on single 9V cell
- Maximum supply: 27V DC
- Solderless Quik-Connect installation system
- Includes 25K volume pot, 25K active tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, dual pickup in/out bus, and all connection and mounting hardware
The 85X combines established EMG reliability with modern tone-shaping control, delivering consistent, clear recordings across diverse session requirements and source dynamics.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is an active humbucker engineered for modern recording—its 1.91 kHz resonant frequency and revised preamp capture articulate definition without harshness, sitting cleanly in high-gain and clean mixes alike. The solderless Quik-Connect system and included volume/tone controls let you dial tone shaping in the box, while 10 KΩ output impedance and low noise floor integrate seamlessly into any signal chain. Ideal for producers and engineers tracking metal, hard rock, and progressive sessions who need consistency, articulate transients, and transparent tone capture.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, High-Gain Playing |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Punchy, articulate, warm, clarity without harshness, tight transients |
| Less specialized for | Traditional Jazz, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is required to install the EMG 85X?
No soldering is needed—the solderless Quik-Connect system handles all wiring. Even intermediate players can install and swap the pickup quickly with just basic tools.
How long does the battery last, and what is the current draw?
The 85X draws 80 mA at 9V and delivers approximately 3000 hours of playtime on a single 9V battery cell. You can also supply up to 27V DC for longer life if using a larger power source.
What genres and playing styles is the EMG 85X designed for?
The 85X excels in metal, hard rock, progressive, and studio sessions with high-gain playing. Its articulate, punchy character works equally well on clean channels; it is not optimized for traditional jazz or folk applications.
How does the tone compare to the standard EMG 85?
The 85X revises the classic 85 design with updated preamp circuitry and AlNiCo 5 magnets to deliver clarity and articulate transients without harshness. Its 1.91 kHz resonant frequency sits in the sweet spot between brightness and body.
What is included in the package, and what else do I need?
The 85X includes a 25K volume pot, 25K active tone pot, battery bus, stereo output jack, dual pickup in/out bus, and all connection and mounting hardware. You will need a 9V battery and a humbucker-routed guitar to complete installation.
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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