EMG4914 vs EMG4946 — Compare
EMG 81-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black vs EMG 707TW Long Shaft 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 81-8X is built for 8-string guitars with a compact soapbar design and newly developed preamp, while the EMG 707TW is optimized for 7-string instruments with a longer housing, dual-mode switching, and Alnico V magnets. Choose the 81-8X if you play 8-string; choose the 707TW if you play 7-string and want switching flexibility between humbucker and single-coil voicings.
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EMG 81-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
EMG 707TW Long Shaft 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 81-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | EMG 707TW Long Shaft 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81-8X 8-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ Designed specifically for 8-string guitar geometry and spacing
- ✓ Ceramic magnet construction with newly developed preamp for modern extended-range tone
- ✓ Compact soapbar dimensions (101.6 mm width) fit modern 8-string cavities cleanly
- ✓ Solderless connectors simplify installation on extended-range instruments
Why choose EMG 707TW Long Shaft 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ 3.5-inch long soapbar housing optimized for 7-string string spacing (63.5 mm maximum)
- ✓ Dual-mode switching delivers both thick humbucker punch and single-coil articulation from one pickup
- ✓ Alnico V magnets with clearly specified resonant frequencies (1.8 kHz humbucker, 3.76 kHz single-coil)
- ✓ Exceptional 3000+ hours battery life per 9V charge eliminates frequent power concerns
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup fits my guitar?
The 81-8X is engineered for 8-string instruments with a 95.2 mm screw spacing and compact 101.6 mm width. The 707TW is built for 7-string guitars with a 3.5-inch long housing accommodating up to 63.5 mm string spacing. Choose based on your instrument's string count and cavity dimensions.
Can either pickup switch between humbucker and single-coil modes?
Yes—the 707TW includes dual-mode switching via a push/pull potentiometer, letting you toggle between thick humbucker punch and articulate single-coil definition. The 81-8X does not feature this switching capability; it operates as a fixed high-output active humbucker.
How long do the batteries last?
The 707TW delivers 3000+ hours of playing time per 9V battery charge. The 81-8X specifications do not list battery life details, so battery longevity is not a distinguishing factor between the two.
What magnet type does each use, and how does it affect tone?
The 81-8X uses ceramic magnets with a newly developed preamp for open, dynamic character across 8-string frequencies. The 707TW uses Alnico V magnets, which traditionally deliver a more resonant, articulate response; its specified resonant frequencies (1.8 kHz humbucker mode, 3.76 kHz single-coil mode) reflect this tonal signature.