Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (27)
$219.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (44)
$219.00
Amazon
4.7 (278)
$219.00
Reverb
5.0 (25)
$165.73 New
$125.00 Used

Average Price: $190

Standard/Professional

$99

$200+

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Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "EMG zw 81/85 set". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the power of your guitar with the EMG ZW 81/85 set, a dynamic duo crafted for those who crave heavy metal ferocity and tonal versatility. Inspired by the legendary Zakk Wylde, these humbucker pickups deliver a commanding presence that transforms any guitar into a snarling beast ready to conquer the stage. The 81/85 set is renowned for its ability to produce a thick, aggressive sound while maintaining clarity, making it ideal for everything from face-melting solos to thunderous rhythm sections. The 81 pickup, placed at the bridge, offers a razor-sharp attack with a rich sustain, while the 85, at the neck, provides a warm, articulate tone perfect for expressive lead work. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or a budding metalhead, this pickup set promises to elevate your sound to legendary heights.

Key Features:

  • Designed in collaboration with Zakk Wylde for authentic metal tones
  • 81 bridge pickup: sharp attack with rich sustain
  • 85 neck pickup: warm, articulate tone for leads
  • Active humbucker design for noise-free performance
  • Easy installation with EMG's solderless wiring system

Product specs

Brand EMG
Model ZW-B Zakk Wylde Signature Humbucker Set
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Pickups

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the EMG ZW 81/85 set?

The EMG ZW 81/85 set delivers a powerful, aggressive tone perfect for metal and hard rock. The 81 pickup offers sharp, cutting highs and tight lows, ideal for the bridge position, while the 85 provides a warmer, smoother sound, making it a great choice for the neck position.

Is the EMG ZW 81/85 set suitable for high-gain applications?

Yes, the EMG ZW 81/85 set is highly suitable for high-gain applications. These active pickups are designed to deliver high output and sustain, making them a popular choice for metal guitarists seeking clarity and punch.

Does the EMG ZW 81/85 set require any special installation tools?

The EMG ZW 81/85 set utilizes a solderless installation system, simplifying the process. This means you won't need special tools or soldering skills, making it accessible for most guitarists to install themselves.

Are the EMG ZW 81/85 pickups compatible with all electric guitars?

The EMG ZW 81/85 set is designed to fit most standard electric guitars. However, it's important to check the dimensions of your guitar's pickup cavities to ensure compatibility, especially if your guitar has non-standard pickup routing.

What is the primary difference between the EMG 81 and 85 pickups in this set?

The EMG 81 is known for its sharp attack and clarity, making it ideal for the bridge position, while the EMG 85 offers a warmer, smoother tone better suited for the neck position. This contrast provides a versatile tonal range for various playing styles.

EMGtv

EMGtv

Easy solderless Zakk Wylde signature pickup Install with Rob Turner, EMGtv

Video thumbnail for Easy solderless Zakk Wylde signature pickup Install with Rob Turner, EMGtv by EMGtv

Easy solderless Zakk Wylde signature pickup Install with Rob Turner, EMGtv

EMGtv

EMGtv

Video thumbnail for How to Install EMGs into a LES PAUL - EMG 81 & 85 ZAKK WYLDE WIRING GIBSON EPIPHONE metal pickups by GuitarGuts

How to Install EMGs into a LES PAUL - EMG 81 & 85 ZAKK WYLDE WIRING GIBSON EPIPHONE metal pickups

GuitarGuts

GuitarGuts

Video thumbnail for EMG 81/85 (ZW) vs EMG James Hetfield : EMG active Sound fight ! by ToroK

EMG 81/85 (ZW) vs EMG James Hetfield : EMG active Sound fight !

ToroK

ToroK

Video thumbnail for ZW  set pickups  EMG 81/85 by Rob Purkott

ZW set pickups EMG 81/85

Rob Purkott

Rob Purkott

Reviews

PROS

  • Easy, solderless installation with clear, concise instructions

  • Exceptional sustain and articulation, even at high gain levels

  • Great for aggressive rock and metal tones; tight and focused sound

  • Highly versatile with the ability to produce clear and bright tones

  • Solid performance for distorted guitar, ideal for chug and fast picking riffs

  • No buzzing or feedback, even in close proximity to the amp

  • Compatible with various EMG models for easy upgrades

  • High output without sacrificing string vibration

  • Suitable for DIY enthusiasts, even children can install with minimal assistance

CONS

  • Long shaft potentiometers may not fit all guitars without looking awkward

  • May require drilling for wire fitment in some guitar models

  • Not ideal for clean tones unless volume is adjusted

  • Installation might require minor soldering for certain guitar models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG zw 81/85 set.

Features and functionality

  • The Zakk Wylde set includes longer pots suitable for Les Paul models, addressing fit issues with the standard short pots in typical 81/85 sets.

    Source
  • The Zakk Wylde set includes a foam cover for the 9v battery, preventing electrical shorts within the guitar cavity.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Zakk Wylde kit is tailored for a Les Paul, unlike standard EMG 81/85 sets, which might require additional modifications for compatibility.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some users find the Zakk Wylde set occasionally cheaper, especially when considering the pre-packaged wiring suited for certain guitar models.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners often watch for EMG B Stock sales on platforms like Reverb, allowing for significant savings on pickups and accessories.

    Source
  • An EMG solderless 3-way switch enhances ease of installation and offers better quality for the Zakk Wylde set.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The Zakk Wylde set eliminates the need for custom pot wiring, offering a straightforward installation for Les Paul guitars with its included components.

    Source
  • The EMG Zakk Wylde set fits well in an Epiphone Les Paul Custom, with ample space for the 9v battery in the body cavity.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the Zakk Wylde set as a significant upgrade, turning their guitars into "Drop tuned Metal machines."

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that Epiphones generally do not require the long pots included with the Zakk Wylde set, as they lack the wood veneer cap of some Les Paul models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: EMG-ZW Guitar Pickups Review

rexbass.com

EMG's ZW pickup set delivers a powerhouse sound, capturing the essence of Zakk Wylde's signature tone without the Gibson price tag. The EMG-85 at the neck offers a rich low end and crisp highs, perfect for rhythm, while the EMG-81 provides killer sustain for leads. Installation is a breeze with no soldering required, making this set a great value for rock and metal enthusiasts. However, some might find the active pickups less versatile for genres outside of hard rock. Overall, a solid choice for those seeking to elevate their guitar's performance with minimal fuss.

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Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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F

They're EMGs. 'nuff said

If you've tried EMGs, you've probably played these. They're the basic EMG set. That's about it.

bthompson2020

Best pickups ever

I use these in my modded Squier stratocaster, that I call the "LET THEM EAT CAKE" stratocaster.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Erik Rutan uses EMG zw 81/85 set

Erik Rutan

Singer, Guitarist

Cannibal Corpse

...
Verified via YouTube

In the above video at 11:56, you can see the EMG pickups during the solo.

https://forum.seymourduncan.com/forum/amplifier-central/77367-hate-eternal-eric-rutan-s-rig#post983922

The above URL links to a forum post confirming that they are indeed, EMG 81/85. The timestamp on that forum post is in 2006 which coincides with the year the above video was taken.

See how Miika Tenkula uses EMG zw 81/85 set

Miika Tenkula

Guitarist

Sentenced

...
Verified via Photo

Mikka seen with EMG 81+85 Set instead of the stock Gibson pickups

Genre Usage

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wolf_mods

Gear IQ 53

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