EMG4620 vs EMG4632 — Compare
EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black vs EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The 85-8X is built for 8-string guitars with Alnico V magnets and a 1.87 kHz resonant frequency for extra low-end clarity, while the 81-7H is engineered for 7-string guitars with ceramic magnets and a 1630 Hz peak for focused midrange punch. Choose the 85-8X if you play 8-string extended-range instruments; choose the 81-7H if you play 7-strings and want a more focused, articulate midrange response.
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EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Engineered specifically for 8-string guitars with proper extended-range voicing
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver tighter low end and clearer articulation
- ✓ Higher resonant frequency (1.87 kHz) balances presence across the extended spectrum
Why choose EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Optimized for 7-string guitars with long shaft potentiometer for proper fit
- ✓ Ceramic magnets provide aggressive high-output character with focused punch
- ✓ 1630 Hz resonant frequency emphasizes midrange presence and sustain in dense mixes
Frequently asked questions
What is the key difference between these two pickups?
The 85-8X is designed for 8-string guitars with Alnico V magnets and a 1.87 kHz resonant frequency, while the 81-7H is built for 7-string guitars with ceramic magnets and a 1630 Hz resonant frequency. They are not interchangeable—you must match the pickup to your guitar's string count.
Do both pickups have the same output and battery life?
Both deliver 3.10V to 3.00V RMS output with 4.50V peak voltage and identical battery life of 3000 hours at 80 microamps draw from a 9V battery. Output noise is virtually identical at -101 dBV and -100 dBV respectively.
Which pickup has tighter lows and which has more midrange focus?
The 85-8X's higher 1.87 kHz resonant frequency provides tighter low-end control and extended clarity across 8 strings. The 81-7H's 1630 Hz frequency emphasizes midrange presence and punch, making it more aggressive and focused in the vocal frequencies of 7-string playing.
Are both suitable for metal and djent genres?
Yes—both are high-output active pickups designed for metal and progressive styles with minimal noise floor at extreme gain settings. Your choice depends entirely on whether your guitar has 7 or 8 strings, not on genre compatibility.