Skip to main content
Play Video

81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set

We're sorry-this item is unavailable.
Contact our experts for a recommendation of great alternatives. Call us at 800-449-9128.

Overview

The dynamic duo of humbuckers.

This EMG electric guitar pickup set gives you active EMG-85 and EMG-81 humbucker pickups. Both pickups include EMG's Quik-Connect cable, prewired split shaft volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs.

When a world class player asks for a custom 81/85 set of humbucker pickups in camouflage it's a matter of when, not how. The biggest challenge for EMG in designing these was in ensuring that the cap could withstand the typical punishment of picks and strings. EMG abandoned the standard paint and airbrush options and went with a more roadworthy and durable dipping method. The result was the EMG-CAMO SET, a quality bundle of EMG's classic 81 and 85 humbuckers in a camouflage design. As a special "thank you" to all of its fans, EMG has decided to make these collectable pickups available to the public. A limited run of 300 sets were made (with some going directly to artists now on tour), and there is no information on the EMG website as these will not be stock products. It is strictly a limited one-time production.

EMG-81

The EMG-81 is a high output pickup designed especially for lead guitarists. The 81 pickup is at its best for high-volume overdrive and amps with a master volume control. Whether you're playing power rock 'n' roll or overdriving your amp, there's a razor sharp attack and incredible sustain for brilliant soloing.

EMG-85

Although the EMG-85 electric guitar pickup has more measurable output than the 81, its frequency response and string interface are different. The 85 uses 2 Alnico magnet-loaded coils with a wide aperture to maintain a beefy low end and a fatter top end. Because the EMG-85 has a more natural tone, it works great as a rhythm and blues pickup because it has loads of output but isn't muddy. The EMG-85 is a perfect choice as a rhythm pickup in combination with an EMG-81 in the bridge”the same pickup combination used by Zakk Wylde.
Specs

81/85 Active Humbucker Pickup Set Specifications:

EMG-85
  • Resonant Frequency (kHz): 2.55
  • RMS Output Voltage: 1.25
  • Peak Output Voltage: 1.75
  • Output Noise (dBV): -89
  • Output Impedance (Kohm): 10
  • Current at 9V (Microamps): 80
  • Battery Life (Hours): 3000
EMG-81
  • Resonant Frequency (kHz): 2.25
  • RMS Output Voltage: 1.25
  • Peak Output Voltage: 1.75
  • Output Noise (dBV): -91
  • Output Impedance (Kohm): 10
  • Current @ 9V (Microamps): 80
  • Battery Life (Hours): 3000
Shop with a Friend
Free Shipping
  • Free Standard Ground shipping (48 contiguous states, some overweight and Used/Vintage items excluded).
  • Orders placed before 3 p.m. ET usually ship the same business day.
Learn More
2-Year Free Warranty on Guitars

Every guitar or bass you purchase from Musician's Friend (electric or acoustic, New or Open Box) includes two years of protection from manufacturer defects.

Contact Us for Details
We're Here for You

Our Gear Advisers are available to guide you through your entire shopping experience. Call or Chat for expert advice and to hear the latest deals.

Contact Us
Proactive Advisor Support Chat