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EMG 91 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Ivory vs EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 91 is a 6-string bass pickup for modern rock and progressive music, while the EMG 81-7 is a 7-string guitar pickup optimized for metal and extended-range tunings. Choose the 91 if you play 6-string bass; choose the 81-7 if you play 7-string guitar.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 91 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Ivory | EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $125.00 | $125.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 91 6-String Active Bass Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Designed specifically for 6-string bass applications with tight low-end response
- ✓ Articulate mid-range clarity cuts through dense mixes in studio and live settings
- ✓ Active electronics provide high output without external amplification
Why choose EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory
- ✓ Purpose-built for 7-string guitars with extended-range tuning capability
- ✓ Extremely low noise floor (-91 dBV) maintains clarity at extreme volumes
- ✓ Quick-connect solderless wiring system simplifies installation and battery swaps
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 81-7 on a 6-string bass or the 91 on a 7-string guitar?
No. The 91 is engineered for 6-string bass with bass-specific voicing and frequency response. The 81-7 is designed for 7-string guitar with guitar-range output characteristics. Using either outside its intended application will result in poor tonal fit and potential routing incompatibility.
What's the main tonal difference between these two pickups?
Both deliver tight lows and articulation, but the 91 emphasizes punchy mids for bass definition, while the 81-7 prioritizes aggressive response and minimal noise for processed, extended-range guitar tones. The 81-7 specifies a resonant frequency of 2.25 kHz optimized for guitar range.
Which pickup is better for metal?
Both suit metal, but context matters: the 91 for metal bass lines, the 81-7 for metal guitar riffs on 7-string instruments. The 81-7 is explicitly marketed for djent and drop tunings, making it the choice for modern metal guitarists.
How long do the batteries last in these pickups?
The EMG 81-7 specifies 3000 hours on a single 9V battery. The EMG 91 description does not provide battery life specifications.