EMG5272 vs EMG5336 — Compare
EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 81-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The F-57 is designed for 6-string Floyd Rose tremolo guitars, while the 81-7XH is built specifically for 7-string instruments with standard potentiometers. Choose the F-57 if you play a tremolo-equipped 6-string; choose the 81-7XH if you need extended range on a 7-string.
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EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 81-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 81-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG F-57 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Floyd Rose spacing eliminates modification needs on tremolo-equipped guitars
- ✓ Alnico magnet delivers slightly warmer articulation in tight, controlled treble
- ✓ Direct retrofit solution for existing Floyd systems
Why choose EMG 81-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Specifically voiced and calibrated for 7-string extended-range playing
- ✓ Long-shaft design integrates with standard modern 7-string potentiometer layouts
- ✓ Ceramic/Steel magnet construction emphasizes aggressive midrange for heavier tunings
Frequently asked questions
Will either pickup fit my guitar without modification?
The F-57 requires Floyd Rose spacing and fits only tremolo-equipped 6-strings without routing. The 81-7XH requires a 7-string instrument with standard potentiometer configurations and fits without modification on compatible instruments.
Which has more output and power handling?
Both are high-output active designs with comparable output levels and noise rejection. The 81-7XH is tuned for the added string mass and tonal demands of 7-string instruments, while the F-57 is optimized for 6-string applications.
What's the difference in tonal character?
The F-57 emphasizes controlled treble cut-through with Alnico magnets, favoring clarity. The 81-7XH uses Ceramic/Steel magnets to punch aggressive midrange, better suited for extended-range tunings and heavier playing styles.
Are both suitable for metal and drop tunings?
Yes, both excel in metal and drop-tuning contexts. The F-57 is designed for standard 6-string drop tunings on tremolo guitars, while the 81-7XH is engineered for 7-string drop tunings where extended low-end clarity is critical.