EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4347
Description
EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 81-7XH captures aggressive midrange punch and articulate high-end clarity essential for modern metal and hard rock productions. This ceramic-magnet humbucker combines solderless wiring convenience with the tight, controlled response needed for tracking extended-range 7-string instruments. The brushed gold finish offers visual distinction without compromising the pickup's core sonic character.
Design & Build
EMG's solderless wiring system eliminates traditional solder connections, streamlining installation and reducing potential wire fatigue during studio setup. The 2K ohm DC resistance and close-aperture coil design deliver tight, focused output ideal for high-gain amplifiers and precision articulation across all seven strings—critical for capturing clean note definition in dense mixes.
Tone & Performance
The active design powered by a 9V battery provides consistent output, minimal impedance interaction with your instrument's electronics, and superior signal integrity over long cable runs in the studio. Ceramic magnets and EMG's engineering yield defined note separation and controlled sustain—essential for modern tuning ranges, fast playing styles, and maintaining clarity when layering tracks.
Key Features
- 7-string humbucker format
- Active pickup powered by 9V battery
- Ceramic magnets
- Close-aperture coils
- 2K ohms DC resistance
- Solderless wiring system
- Brushed gold finish
- Made in the USA
- ~3,000 hour battery life
- 80 µA current draw
The 81-7XH is a proven workhorse for extended-range tracking, combining EMG's established active circuit with the visual appeal of brushed gold for producers and engineers who demand both tonal precision and aesthetic consistency.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81-7XH is a 7-string active humbucker that captures aggressive, articulate metal and hard-rock tones with tight low end and controlled sustain in the studio. Its 2K ohm DC resistance and ceramic magnets deliver defined note separation and focused output ideal for layering high-gain tracks and punchy rhythm recordings. Active circuitry ensures consistent signal integrity through long cable runs and mixing workflows, and the solderless wiring simplifies studio installation and reconfiguration.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Extended Range
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ High-Gain Amplifiers
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the 81-7XH, and do I need a battery?
The pickup includes solderless connectors for fast installation. It requires a 9V battery to power the active circuit; expect approximately 3,000 hours of battery life with typical use and low current draw of 80 µA.
Is the 81-7XH suitable for tunings lower than standard 7-string tuning?
Yes. The tight, focused output and controlled sustain are designed specifically for extended-range instruments and drop tunings. The ceramic magnets and close-aperture coil design maintain clarity and articulation even in the lowest registers.
How does the brushed gold finish affect the tone?
The brushed gold is a cosmetic option that does not impact the pickup's sonic character. It provides visual distinction while preserving EMG's core aggressive midrange and articulate high-end response.
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best for?
The 81-7XH excels in metal, hard rock, and any high-gain style that demands fast picking and precise note definition. It is not voiced for jazz, blues, or folk—those genres typically benefit from passive or lower-output designs.
How does the solderless wiring system work?
EMG's solderless connectors eliminate traditional solder joints, reducing installation time and potential wire fatigue. This makes it easier to install, remove, or swap the pickup in your 7-string instrument.
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.
Compare With
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.