What magnet type does the EMG 85-8 use?

The EMG 85-8 uses Alnico V magnets. These are chosen for their ability to provide a punchy, organic sound with a warmer mid-range response compared to ceramic magnets.

Can the EMG 85-8 be used in the bridge position?

Yes, although the 85 model is often used in the neck, the 85-8 is an excellent choice for the bridge. It provides a soulful sound and added depth that works well for dynamic performances.

Is soldering required to install this pickup?

No, the EMG 85-8 features EMG's innovative solderless system. This allows for easier installation and quick adjustments to your tone circuit without professional tools.

How many strings is this pickup designed for?

This specific model is designed for 8-string guitars. It features a wider housing and internal structure to capture the full frequency range of extended-range instruments.

What is the typical price for an EMG 85-8 in the UK?

The typical price range for the EMG 85-8 is approximately £105. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current stock levels.

What kind of tonal response can I expect from the low B and F# strings?

The 85-8 is designed to produce robust growls on the lower strings. The Alnico V magnets help maintain clarity while ensuring the low-end remains punchy and full.

Is the EMG 85-8 suitable for blues music?

Yes, the pickup is noted for its versatility. Its smooth and soulful lead tones make it a strong candidate for blues, even on an 8-string platform.

How does the 'close aperture' coil design affect the sound?

Close aperture coils provide a more focused and detailed signal. This helps the pickup achieve its characteristic blend of power and refined detail across the entire frequency spectrum.

Does this pickup require a battery?

Yes, as an active pickup, it requires a 9V battery to power the internal preamp. The active design ensures low noise and high signal output.

What color options are available for the 85-8?

This specific model is available in a standard Black finish, consistent with EMG's traditional aesthetic for active humbuckers.

How does the 85-8 compare to the original 6-string EMG 85?

It is a tribute to the original 85, bringing the same punchy alnico character to a larger format. It maintains the smoothness of the original while expanding the magnetic field for 8 strings.

Can I mix this pickup with other EMG models?

Yes, the solderless system makes it easy to pair the 85-8 with other EMG 8-string pickups, such as the 81-8, to create a customized tonal balance in your guitar.

Gear article

EMG 85-8 8-String Humbucker Pickup

The EMG 85-8 is an active 8-string humbucking pickup designed to adapt the characteristics of the classic EMG 85 for extended-range instruments. Utilizing Alnico V magnets and close aperture coils, it provides a balance of high-output power and organic, punchy tonal response.

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Overview

The EMG 85-8 represents an evolution of one of EMG's most revered designs, specifically re-engineered for the modern 8-string guitar. While many high-output pickups for extended-range instruments rely on ceramic magnets for brightness, the 85-8 maintains the use of Alnico V magnets. This design choice ensures that the additional low-frequency range provided by the seventh and eighth strings remains defined without becoming harsh or sterile.

The pickup is housed in a standard 8-string soapbar-style casing and is compatible with EMG’s proprietary solderless installation system, which allows for quick modifications and component swaps without the need for traditional soldering tools.

Technical Features and Design

At the core of the 85-8 are close aperture coils paired with an Alnico V magnet. This configuration is known for producing a 'punchier' sound compared to its ceramic counterparts. The active internal preamp is designed to provide a low-impedance output, which significantly reduces hum and noise while maintaining signal integrity over long cable runs.

Key technical highlights include: * Alnico V Magnets: Provides a warmer, more musical response with a focus on the mid-range. * Close Aperture Coils: Ensures a focused magnetic field for clarity across all eight strings. * Solderless System: Simplifies the installation of volume and tone pots, as well as the output jack and battery clip.

Tonal Character

The sound of the EMG 85-8 is defined by its fusion of power and smoothness. It is capable of producing robust 'growls' in the lower register, which is essential for the extended range of an 8-string guitar. In the higher registers, it offers a silky-smooth lead tone that avoids the thinness sometimes associated with high-gain active pickups.

While the original 6-string 85 is often relegated to the neck position, the 85-8 is marketed as a versatile unit. When used in the bridge position, it adds an extra layer of depth and dynamism, making it suitable for genres beyond just high-gain metal, including soulful blues and progressive rock.

Target Audience and Comparison

This pickup is primarily aimed at 8-string guitarists who find ceramic pickups too clinical or brittle. It suits players who require versatility, allowing for a transition between aggressive high-gain textures and warmer, cleaner passages.

Compared to other market alternatives, such as standard passive 8-string pickups, the EMG 85-8 offers superior noise floor performance due to its active circuitry. Unlike the EMG 81-8, which is sharper and more focused on the treble frequencies, the 85-8 provides a thicker, more rounded frequency response that many players prefer for rhythm work and liquid-like soloing.

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Frequently asked questions

What magnet type does the EMG 85-8 use?: The EMG 85-8 uses Alnico V magnets. These are chosen for their ability to provide a punchy, organic sound with a warmer mid-range response compared to ceramic magnets.
Can the EMG 85-8 be used in the bridge position?: Yes, although the 85 model is often used in the neck, the 85-8 is an excellent choice for the bridge. It provides a soulful sound and added depth that works well for dynamic performances.
Is soldering required to install this pickup?: No, the EMG 85-8 features EMG's innovative solderless system. This allows for easier installation and quick adjustments to your tone circuit without professional tools.
How many strings is this pickup designed for?: This specific model is designed for 8-string guitars. It features a wider housing and internal structure to capture the full frequency range of extended-range instruments.
What is the typical price for an EMG 85-8 in the UK?: The typical price range for the EMG 85-8 is approximately £105. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current stock levels.
What kind of tonal response can I expect from the low B and F# strings?: The 85-8 is designed to produce robust growls on the lower strings. The Alnico V magnets help maintain clarity while ensuring the low-end remains punchy and full.
Is the EMG 85-8 suitable for blues music?: Yes, the pickup is noted for its versatility. Its smooth and soulful lead tones make it a strong candidate for blues, even on an 8-string platform.
How does the 'close aperture' coil design affect the sound?: Close aperture coils provide a more focused and detailed signal. This helps the pickup achieve its characteristic blend of power and refined detail across the entire frequency spectrum.
Does this pickup require a battery?: Yes, as an active pickup, it requires a 9V battery to power the internal preamp. The active design ensures low noise and high signal output.
What color options are available for the 85-8?: This specific model is available in a standard Black finish, consistent with EMG's traditional aesthetic for active humbuckers.
How does the 85-8 compare to the original 6-string EMG 85?: It is a tribute to the original 85, bringing the same punchy alnico character to a larger format. It maintains the smoothness of the original while expanding the magnetic field for 8 strings.
Can I mix this pickup with other EMG models?: Yes, the solderless system makes it easy to pair the 85-8 with other EMG 8-string pickups, such as the 81-8, to create a customized tonal balance in your guitar.