EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in 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
- EMG4859
Description
EMG 85X Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 85X is a modern active humbucker engineered to capture articulate, controlled transients with extended dynamic range for session and studio tracking. This covered pickup balances clarity with punch, recording equally well in high-gain contexts and cleaner, more transparent applications. The long shaft configuration accommodates guitars with deeper cavities or custom routing.
Tone & Output Characteristics
The Alnico V magnet structure and 2K DC resistance deliver a focused midrange with enhanced note definition, translating to clear articulation and presence in the mix without the dullness of ceramic alternatives. Active circuitry boosts output to 4.5 V on strum and 3.1 V per string, providing consistent, hot signal integrity into your interface, preamp, or effects chain without mud or compression artifacts.
Studio Performance & Signal Path
Operating at 80 mA from a 9 V battery with a maximum supply of 27 V DC, this pickup sustains 3000 hours of typical use per battery for extended tracking sessions. The solderless connection system and included split shaft volume/active tone control streamline installation, allowing fast integration into your instrument without requiring rewiring expertise.
Key Features
- Magnet Type: Alnico V
- Active Humbucker Configuration
- DC Resistance: 2K
- Output Impedance: 10 KOhm
- Resonant Frequency: 1.87 KHz
- Output Voltage (Strum): 4.5 V
- Output Voltage (String): 3.1 V
- Battery Life: 3000 Hours at 9 V
- Maximum Supply: 27 V DC
- Solderless Wiring Connectivity
- Covered Design
- Includes Split Shaft Volume/Active Tone Control, Output Jack, Battery Clip Set, Screws & Springs
The 85X delivers the signal integrity and tonal versatility expected from EMG's active platform while maintaining the ergonomic ease of modern plug-and-play installation.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85X is an active humbucker built to capture articulate, focused midrange tone with controlled dynamics and high output—perfect for heavy studio sessions, metal recording, and extended-range tracking where clarity matters in a dense mix. The Alnico V magnet and 2K DC resistance deliver note definition and signal integrity without compression artifacts, while the active circuit ensures consistent gain into your interface or mixing chain. Long shaft configuration and solderless wiring make it a versatile drop-in for custom builds or retrofit sessions.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Studio Sessions, Extended Range |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate midrange, focused clarity, high output punch, controlled dynamics, consistent signal integrity |
| 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
What genres and playing styles is the 85X best suited for?
The 85X excels in metal, hard rock, progressive, and studio session work. Its articulate midrange and high-output punch make it less suitable for jazz, blues, and folk applications where a warmer, more dynamic response is typically preferred.
How long does the 9V battery last, and what's the total output?
The battery delivers approximately 3000 hours of typical use at 9 V supply. Output voltage on strum reaches 4.5 V, with 3.1 V per string, providing consistent signal integrity into any amp or effects chain.
Do I need soldering experience to install this pickup?
No—the 85X uses a solderless connection system and includes a split shaft volume/active tone control set, allowing installation without wiring expertise. The package also includes an output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs.
What does the long shaft configuration mean, and will it fit my guitar?
The long shaft accommodates guitars with deeper pickup cavities or custom routing. If your guitar has standard routing, verify cavity depth before purchase; the long shaft is designed for non-standard or routed configurations.
How does the 85X compare to other active humbuckers like the 81X?
The 85X delivers a more articulate midrange with enhanced note definition and controlled dynamics, making it ideal for clarity in high-gain contexts. It's comparable in class to the Seymour Duncan Distortion and Fishman Fluence Modern for versatility across gain settings.
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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