EMG3168 vs EMG3252 — Compare
EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 60-7X 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 85-7XH is a traditional humbucker with punchy mids ideal for players seeking aggressive, mid-focused metal tones, while the EMG 60-7X is a compact soapbar with a more open frequency response and variable tone control suited to players wanting clarity and dynamic sculpting across a wider range. Choose the 85-7XH for straightforward high-gain heaviness; choose the 60-7X for versatility and tonal shaping.
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EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG 60-7X 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG 60-7X 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Traditional humbucker housing maintains aesthetic consistency with standard guitars
- ✓ Punchy, defined midrange cuts through dense mixes in metal and progressive contexts
- ✓ Simpler electronics with single 9V battery and straightforward solderless installation
- ✓ Alnico V magnet produces aggressive, articulate character
Why choose EMG 60-7X 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Compact soapbar footprint fits more guitar designs and offers cosmetic flexibility
- ✓ X series preamp with increased headroom delivers open, organic frequency response without mud
- ✓ Active variable low-pass filter tone pot gives real-time harmonic sculpting control
- ✓ Complete wiring harness bundle (volume pot, tone pot, jacks, cables) accelerates setup
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup works better for djent and modern metal subgenres?
Both are listed as suitable for these genres. The 60-7X is explicitly recommended for djent and offers dynamic responsiveness with its variable tone filter, making it stronger for players who want to shape aggression in real time. The 85-7XH delivers punchier, more forward mids that sit aggressively in a mix without sculpting.
Do these pickups come with everything I need to install them?
The 85-7XH requires only a 9V battery and uses solderless quick-connect wiring, making installation simple but requiring you to source or have existing pots and jacks. The 60-7X includes a complete wiring harness with volume pot, active tone pot, battery bus, output jack, and all necessary cables, so it's a more all-in-one solution.
What is the main tonal difference between these two?
The 85-7XH emphasizes punchy mids and defined highs for aggressive attack, while the 60-7X provides an open frequency response with less coloration and includes a variable low-pass filter for high-end control. The 85-7XH is more one-dimensional and focused; the 60-7X is more sculptable and responsive to playing dynamics.
Which is better for 7-string drop tunings?
Both are engineered for extended-range instruments and drop tunings. The 85-7XH maintains clarity at low frequencies through its active circuitry and high output. The 60-7X's tighter articulation and ceramic magnet also preserve string definition even in ultra-low tunings, with the added benefit of a tone control to tighten or open the low end as needed.