EMG 81/85 Original Logo Set Black

In 1976, Rob Turner revolutionized guitar tone with the introduction of the first active guitar pickup. With their noiseless operation and unmatched clarity, EMG Pickups became an instant hit with studio musicians and players seeking a tighter response from their pickups. Soon after, with the introduction of the 81 and 85 pickups, EMG Pickups set the standard for output and attack in the heavy metal guitar community, backed by artists such as Zakk Wylde and Kerry King.

Now in 2026, in honor of the 50th anniversary of EMG Pickups, this classic set will be available with the original EMG logo for a limited time. Traditionally configured with the 81 in the bridge position and the 85 in the neck, the 81 will bring tight response, endless sustain, and great high-end cut, while the 85 brings fluid lead tone and full sounding cleans to the neck position. However, EMG Pickups has never been afraid of breaking tradition, so experimenting with the 85 in the bridge and the 81 in the neck is welcomed. The 85 will bring chunky lows to the bridge position, while the 81 can produce searing lead tones in the neck.

Like all EMG products, this set includes the solderless wiring system for simple installation. Make sure to check the instructions for pickup measurements before purchasing to compare your existing pickups with EMG models.

In The Box:
Package Includes EMG's exclusive Solderless Install System:

• 2 25k long shaft volume pots

• 2 25k long shaft tone pots

• 1 Battery bus

• 1 Stereo output jack

• 1 Two pickup in/out bus

• 2 Pair mounting screws and springs

• 2 Pickup cables

• 4 Connect cables

• 1 Output cable

• 1 Battery cable