EMG Zakk Wylde 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG2022
Description
EMG Zakk Wylde 81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set in Black
The Zakk Wylde 81/85 set captures the aggressive, high-output character that defined one of metal's most recognizable recorded tones. These active humbuckers track with immediate clarity and punch, cutting through dense mixes with articulate aggression while maintaining definition across the frequency spectrum. Engineered for engineers and producers tracking heavy material who demand maximum output and noise-free performance in high-gain recording sessions.
Tone & Output Character
The EMG 85 neck pickup produces 3.10V output with a 1.87 kHz resonant frequency, delivering warm, sustained mids ideal for lead tracking and harmonic richness in the mix. The EMG 81 bridge pickup generates 3.00V output with a 1.63 kHz resonant frequency, engineered for tight, defined bass response and controlled feedback—each reaches 4.50V on full strum for explosive dynamic range. This pairing balances aggressive output with note separation across both positions, ensuring clarity during overdubs and mix sessions.
Construction & Electronics
Both pickups use ceramic/steel magnets in the bridge and Alnico V magnets in the neck, vacuum-sealed in epoxy to eliminate microphonic feedback and ensure rock-solid stability during recording. The active 9V design requires a battery with over 1500 hours of typical playing time, while solderless connectivity with included Quick-Connect cables and four 25k long split-shaft pots streamlines setup and reconfiguration between sessions.
Key Features
- Active EMG 85 and EMG 81 humbucking pickups, HH configuration for 6-string guitars
- Ceramic/Steel magnets (bridge), Alnico V magnets (neck)
- Vacuum sealed in epoxy to reduce microphonic feedback
- Covered pickup design
- EMG 81: 3.00V string output, 4.50V strum output, 10 kOhm impedance, 1.63 kHz resonant frequency
- EMG 85: 3.10V string output, 4.50V strum output, 10 kOhm impedance, 1.87 kHz resonant frequency
- 10K ohms DC resistance
- Requires 9V battery with over 1500 hours playing time
- Solderless connectivity with 2-wire plus battery configuration
- Includes two Quick-Connect cables, four 25k long split-shaft volume/tone pots, screws and springs
- Black finish
- Made in the USA with 2-year manufacturer warranty
This signature set combines high-output aggression with proven reliability, making it the standard choice for tracking heavy material and capturing the legendary tone that cuts through any production.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG Zakk Wylde 81/85 brings high-output, aggressive character to recording sessions, delivering tight low-end definition and articulate separation that sit well in dense, heavy mixes. The 85 neck pickup adds harmonic richness for layered lead work while the 81 bridge provides controlled, punchy attack ideal for tracking metal and hard-rock riffs. Choose this set for noise-free active performance and quick solderless installation in your recording guitar.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Thrash Metal, High-Gain Applications |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | High output, aggressive, tight low end, articulate, noise-free |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the EMG 85 and EMG 81 in this set?
The EMG 85 neck pickup has a 1.87 kHz resonant frequency for warm, sustained mids ideal for lead work, while the EMG 81 bridge features a 1.63 kHz resonant frequency for tight bass response and controlled feedback. Both reach 4.50V on full strum for explosive dynamic range.
Do these pickups require soldering to install?
No. This set features solderless connectivity with included Quick-Connect cables, making installation straightforward. The package also includes four 25k long split-shaft pots, screws, and springs for a complete retrofit.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The 9V battery provides over 1500 hours of typical playing time, ensuring long stretches between replacements in gigging and studio use.
What genres and playing styles are these pickups designed for?
These are engineered for metal, hard rock, thrash metal, and high-gain applications where maximum output, noise-free performance, and articulate aggression are priorities. They are not designed for jazz, blues, or folk playing styles.
What magnets are used, and why does it matter?
The bridge uses ceramic/steel magnets for aggressive output while the neck uses Alnico V magnets for warmth and sustain. Both are vacuum-sealed in epoxy to eliminate microphonic feedback and ensure rock-solid stability.
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 $15 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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