EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4344
Description
EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81-7XH is a high-output active humbucker engineered specifically for extended-range 7-string instruments. This pickup captures the aggressive, articulate response that defines EMG's character—tight low end, punchy mids, and controlled highs—making it an essential choice for modern metal and progressive productions where clarity and definition matter as much as output when tracking and mixing.
Recording & Tone Characteristics
Active circuitry powered by a single 9V battery (rated for 3,000 hours of continuous operation) ensures consistent signal level and impedance across dynamic playing and session demands. The ceramic magnet and close aperture coil design yield focused articulation ideal for capturing fast picking passages and complex chord voicings on a 7-string platform with minimal noise in the recording chain.
Studio Integration & Setup
The solderless wiring system included with this pickup streamlines installation and keeps your session moving forward with minimal setup time. With an output impedance of 10 kΩ and minimal current draw of 80 µA, integration into most active or passive 7-string guitar electronics is straightforward, and battery drain remains negligible across full recording and overdub sessions.
Key Features
- 7-string humbucker configuration for extended-range guitars
- Active electronics powered by 9V battery
- Battery life rating: 3,000 hours
- Ceramic magnet construction with close aperture coils
- Output impedance: 10 kΩ
- Current draw: 80 µA
- Solderless wiring system included
- Black Chrome finish
The EMG 81-7XH combines the proven aggression of EMG's 81 topology with dedicated 7-string voicing, delivering the precision and sustain that modern extended-range recordings demand.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81-7XH is a high-output active humbucker engineered for 7-string tracking and recording in metal, prog, and djent sessions where articulation and focus matter as much as output. Its tight, punchy character cuts through dense mixes and captures every nuance of fast picking and chord work, while active electronics ensure consistent impedance and output across dynamic playing. The included solderless wiring and long battery life (3,000 hours) keep your setup simple and your sessions uninterrupted.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Djent
- ✓ Drop Tunings
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The 81-7XH excels in metal, progressive, and djent styles where tight low end, articulate picking, and extended-range clarity are essential. It is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk applications.
How long does the 9V battery last, and how often will I need to replace it?
The battery is rated for 3,000 hours of continuous operation, which translates to several months of typical playing. Current draw is minimal at 80 µA, so the battery drains slowly during normal use.
Is soldering required for installation?
No. The pickup includes a solderless wiring system that streamlines installation and minimizes downtime, making it accessible for players who prefer quick, tool-free swaps.
Will this pickup work with passive guitar electronics, or does it require an active system?
The 81-7XH is an active pickup with an output impedance of 10 kΩ and integrates into most active or passive 7-string guitar electronics straightforwardly. Consult your guitar's wiring diagram if you are uncertain about compatibility.
How does the 81-7XH compare to other 7-string active pickups?
The EMG 81-7XH applies the aggressive, focused character of EMG's 81 topology to 7-string voicing. Similar options include the Seymour Duncan Blackouts 7-String and DiMarzio Crunch Lab 7, which offer comparable output and modern metal tone with slightly different mid and high-end profiles.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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