For its 50th anniversary, EMG is releasing a limited edition run of its legendary 81/85 set, complete with the original EMG logo. Other than that, it’s the same pickups that have been delivering the metal for years and years.
Back in 1976, EMG founder Rob Turner introduced the first active guitar pickup which changed the game with noiseless performance, increased headroom, and a tighter, more controlled response than passive designs could offer at the time. Then came the 81 and 85.
The 81, traditionally installed in the bridge position, is all about focus and attack. Its tight low end, aggressive midrange, and cutting highs make it ideal for fast riffing. In the neck, the 85 offers a contrasting voice, built for expressive leads and rounded clean tones.
Swapping positions opens up new tonal possibilities. Put the 85 in the bridge, and you get thicker lows and a chunkier rhythm tone. Move the 81 to the neck, and it delivers sharper, more cutting lead tones with added clarity.
Despite its vintage inspiration, this anniversary set includes EMG’s solderless wiring system, making installation quick and accessible — no deep electronics knowledge required.
Get the EMG 50th Anniversary 81/85 Original Logo here for $249 and keep up with all our EMG coverage right here!
