What makes the 81-7XH different from a standard 6-string EMG 81?

The 81-7XH is calibrated and balanced specifically for extended-range 7-string instruments, ensuring articulate string separation and consistent tone across all seven strings. The long-shaft design also accommodates standard potentiometer configurations found on modern 7-string guitars.

Will this pickup fit my 7-string guitar without modification?

The long-shaft design fits standard potentiometer configurations on most modern 7-string guitars. The single-coil-sized footprint allows drop-in replacement in bridge or neck positions on compatible instruments without routing modifications, though you should verify your guitar's specifications before ordering.

Does this pickup require a battery or external power?

Yes, the 81-7XH is an active pickup and requires either a 9V battery or an external power supply to operate. Active circuitry is what gives it noise rejection and consistent gain across high-output applications.

What styles and genres is this pickup best suited for?

The 81-7XH is engineered for metal, progressive rock, and other styles demanding aggressive tone and extended-range versatility. It excels with palm-muted riffing and high-gain applications but is not recommended for jazz, blues, or acoustic playing.

What comes in the box and is it factory-tested?

The pickup arrives factory-wired and tested by EMG, ready for installation. The 9V battery or external power supply is not included and must be sourced separately.

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.

EMG 81-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome

The EMG 81-7XH is a high-output active humbucker engineered for extended-range 7-string guitars, delivering aggressive tone with minimal noise across all registers. The long-shaft configuration accommodates standard potentiometers and integrates seamlessly into modern recording setups. Black chrome finish adds visual distinction while maintaining EMG's reputation for durability in demanding studio and live environments.

Active Design & Recording Performance

Active circuitry provides consistent gain and controlled dynamics without noise artifacts, ideal for capturing tight palm-muted riffing and high-gain material in the studio. The 81-7XH maintains EMG's signature aggressive midrange and tight low end, making it suited for metal, progressive rock, and other styles demanding articulate string separation and clarity in the mix on 7-string instruments.

Installation & Compatibility

Long-shaft design fits standard potentiometer configurations found on most modern 7-string guitars. Single-coil-sized footprint allows drop-in replacement in existing bridge or neck positions without routing modifications on compatible instruments.

Key Features

Active humbucker configuration for high output and noise rejection
7-string calibration for extended-range instruments
Long-shaft potentiometer compatibility
Black chrome finish
Ceramic/Steel magnet construction
Standard humbucker coil spacing
Requires 9V battery or external power supply
EMG factory-wired and tested

The 81-7XH delivers the controlled aggression and noise-free performance expected from EMG active electronics in a purpose-built 7-string configuration, tracking and translating reliably through recording chains and mixing sessions.