EMG SAX/SAX/85X Active Single Coil Pickup in White
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG3705
Description
EMG SAX/SAX/85X Active Pickup Set in White
This three-pickup configuration pairs two SAX single-coil pickups with one 85X humbucker, delivering a versatile active system engineered for recording and tracking work that demands clarity, dynamic range, and tonal control across multiple positions. The solderless installation system streamlines setup, while the integrated preamps and active tone shaping give you real-time control over your instrument's character in the mix without sacrificing output or headroom—critical for capturing clean, articulate takes and maintaining consistent levels during production.
Active Electronics & Tone Shaping for Mix Performance
Both the SAX and 85X pickups use X series preamp architecture, which increases dynamic range and headroom compared to earlier EMG generations—essential for tracking multiple passes without signal degradation. The SAX single-coils include an integrated Active Tone Control (VLPF)—a variable low-pass filter that lets you shape high frequencies in real time, giving you smooth, controlled treble roll-off during recording sessions without losing articulation or definition. The 85X pairs Alnico V magnets in close aperture coils for focused output and harmonic richness, providing the full-bodied character needed for dense arrangements and layered production work.
Studio-Ready System & Solderless Wiring
The complete kit includes two 25k active tone pots (VLPF), one 25k volume pot, a stereo output jack, 5-way selector switch, battery bus, mounting hardware, and all necessary cables—everything required for a clean, solderless installation that minimizes downtime in the studio. Internal shielding and low impedance preamp design on the SAX pickups reject noise effectively while maximizing signal clarity, ensuring a clean recording platform that translates well through your mixing chain.
Key Features
- Two SAX single-coil pickups with Alnico V bar magnets
- One 85X humbucker with Alnico V magnets and close aperture coils
- X series preamp on all three pickups for increased dynamic range and headroom
- Active Tone Control (VLPF) on SAX pickups for high-frequency attenuation
- Internal shielding and low impedance design for noise rejection
- Solderless installation system with pre-wired components
- Includes 25k volume pot and two 25k active tone pots (VLPF)
- Stereo output jack and battery bus included
- 5-way selector switch for pickup selection
- Complete mounting hardware and pickup, connect, output, and battery cables
- White finish matches modern instrument aesthetics
- Drop-in replacement compatible with standard guitar configurations
This set delivers the clarity and control essential for tracking and mixing, combining single-coil snap with humbucker warmth and everything between—all backed by EMG's proven X series preamp technology for studio-grade signal integrity and tonal flexibility.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG SAX/SAX/85X brings studio-grade active electronics and tonal flexibility to home and professional recording setups, combining dual single-coil clarity with humbucker body to capture everything from snappy rhythm work to warm lead tones in a single session. The VLPF active tone control and low-impedance preamp design ensure a noise-free signal path that sits cleanly in dense mixes, while the X series preamps provide headroom for dynamic playing without breakup. Complete wiring kit and solderless installation mean you can integrate this set into your main instrument quickly and focus on tracking.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Studio Sessions, Home Recording, Gigging, Progressive, Metal |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High clarity, dynamic range, controlled treble, focused output, noise rejection |
| 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 do I need to install this pickup set?
The solderless installation system is designed for intermediate players and up; no soldering required. All components come pre-wired and the kit includes mounting hardware, cables, pots, and switching—you connect and route, making the job straightforward even if you've never done a full retrofit before.
How does the active tone control work, and will it help live?
The VLPF (variable low-pass filter) on the two SAX single-coils lets you attenuate high frequencies on the fly using a dedicated pot, giving you smooth treble roll-off without losing clarity. On stage, this means real-time tonal shaping without sacrificing output or headroom.
What's the tonal difference between the two SAX single-coils and the 85X humbucker?
The two SAX pickups deliver high clarity and dynamic range with noise rejection, ideal for snappy single-coil character; the 85X pairs Alnico V magnets in close aperture coils for focused output and harmonic richness, adding full-bodied humbucker warmth. Together they cover single-coil snap, humbucker body, and everything in between across the five-way selector.
Is this set compatible with my guitar?
The SAX/SAX/85X is a drop-in replacement compatible with standard guitar configurations. The kit includes all necessary mounting hardware, pots, switching, output jack, and battery bus for a complete active system retrofit.
Will these pickups work well for metal and progressive music?
Yes—the set is specifically designed for progressive and metal players. The X series preamps provide increased dynamic range and headroom, the SAX single-coils offer clarity and noise rejection, and the 85X delivers focused output and body, making this a versatile platform for high-gain and articulate playing across those genres.
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. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $22 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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