The EMG 85 Active Alnico Humbucker is a force to be reckoned with. This pickup has been designed to serve up a rich, full-bodied sound that's perfect for a wide array of musical styles. Featuring two Alnico magnet-loaded coils, the EMG 85 is capable of producing a beefy low end and a thick, fat top end.

Whether you're playing rhythm and blues or heavy metal, this pickup will deliver. It's the perfect match for the EMG 81 in the bridge, proving a dynamic duo that's hard to beat. The EMG 85 excels in maintaining a natural tone, even when producing loads of output. It's a great choice if you like the natural distortion that comes from overdriving the front end of your amp.

The power of the EMG 85 shines through when you're playing at high volumes, pushing your amp into the sweetest of overdrives and distortions. This high output humbucker will give you the beefy sound you need to stand out. Its tonal properties are virtually identical to molded cover caps, ensuring consistency and high quality.

Key Features:

• High output humbucker
• Two Alnico magnet-loaded coils
• Natural tone, even with lots of output
• Great for overdriving the front end of your amp
• Perfect companion to the EMG 81
• Beefy low end and fat top end
• Maintains a natural tone under any condition
• Includes all necessary components for installation
• Excellent for both rhythm and lead playing
• Works best at high volumes
• Designed and produced in the USA.

Product specs

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the EMG 85 Active Alnico Humbucker?

The EMG 85 provides a warm, smooth tone with a rich midrange and pronounced bass, making it ideal for both clean and lead tones. Its Alnico V magnets offer a slightly more vintage character compared to ceramic magnets, making it versatile for various music styles.

Is the EMG 85 suitable for both bridge and neck positions?

Yes, the EMG 85 is designed for use in both bridge and neck positions, allowing for flexibility in tonal setup. Its balanced output works well in either position, providing a full-bodied tone.

How does the active nature of the EMG 85 affect its performance?

As an active pickup, the EMG 85 offers higher output and lower noise compared to passive pickups. This makes it particularly suitable for high-gain applications and provides clarity and sustain, especially favored in heavier music genres.

Does the EMG 85 require any special installation or power supply?

The EMG 85 features a solderless installation system for easy setup, but it does require a 9-volt battery to power its active circuitry. This battery powers the preamp, enhancing the pickup's output and performance.

Can the EMG 85 be used with a 6-string guitar?

Yes, the EMG 85 is specifically designed for 6-string electric guitars, providing optimal performance and tonal balance across all strings.