EMG5753 vs EMG5760 — Compare
EMG 85-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 81-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The EMG 85-7H offers a warmer, more balanced midrange tone with medium output suited to articulate lead work and clarity, while the EMG 81-7H delivers higher output and tighter low-end response for aggressive metal and high-gain applications. Choose the 85-7H if you prioritize note definition and versatility; choose the 81-7H if you play through dense compression or extreme gain.
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EMG 85-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG 81-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 85-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG 81-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $119.00 | $119.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 85-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Alnico V magnet preserves harmonic content and midrange articulation
- ✓ Medium output sits well in mix without overwhelming signal chains
- ✓ 1.87 kHz resonant frequency balances aggression with controlled dynamics
- ✓ Slightly lower output reduces noise in cable runs
Why choose EMG 81-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ High output (2.0V per string, 4.5V peak) cuts through extreme gain and compression
- ✓ Ceramic magnet and tight low-end response ideal for drop-tuned metal
- ✓ Lower noise floor (-91 dBu @ 60Hz) maintains clarity in stacked effects
- ✓ 2.00 kHz resonant frequency provides controlled, predictable frequency response
Frequently asked questions
What is the main tonal difference between these two?
The 85-7H has a warmer, more articulate midrange with medium output and Alnico V magnets, while the 81-7H has a tighter low end with ceramic magnets and higher output (2.0V+ per string) optimized for extreme gain. The 85-7H suits clarity and versatility; the 81-7H suits aggressive metal and heavy compression.
Which pickup handles drop tunings better?
Both are designed for extended range and drop tunings. The 85-7H maintains definition on lower strings via its Alnico V design, while the 81-7H delivers tighter, more controlled low-end response ideal for heavily compressed or distorted tones.
Do both come with installation hardware?
Yes, both ship with solderless Quick-Connect wiring systems and full hardware packages including potentiometers, jacks, cables, and connectors. The 81-7H specifies matched 25k pots; the 85-7H lists components as part of installation suite.
Which has lower noise in a signal chain?
The 81-7H explicitly rates -91 dBu @ 60Hz noise floor and is engineered for dense signal chains. The 85-7H emphasizes controlled dynamics and articulation but does not specify a noise figure.