EMG 85-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4445
Description
EMG 85-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
The EMG 85-7 is a medium-output active soapbar pickup engineered for seven-string instruments, capturing articulate midrange punch and controlled sustain with minimal noise floor. Its smooth-top rounded plastic shell sits flush in soapbar cavities, while the solderless connectivity streamlines installation and future signal-chain modifications. Designed for recording and live work that demands clarity in extended-range tunings without sacrificing the aggressive character active pickups deliver to dense arrangements.
Active Electronics & Power
This active pickup system operates on a single 9V battery, providing consistent output level and lower impedance than passive designs for predictable tracking and blending in the mix. The included battery bus, output cable, and battery cable integrate directly into your wiring harness—no external power supply required, simplifying studio setup and on-location sessions.
Installation & Connectivity
The solderless connection system eliminates soldering, enabling quick swaps between sessions or rapid troubleshooting without disrupting workflow. Installation includes Alnico 5 magnet construction, 25k volume and 25k tone potentiometers (both with 9.5 mm shaft length), stereo output jack, two pickup in/out bus connectors, mounting screws, springs, and a pickup cable for a complete drop-in solution.
Key Features
- Alnico 5 magnet material
- Medium output level
- Active pickup system powered by single 9V battery
- Soapbar format with black cap
- Solderless connectivity
- 25k volume potentiometer with 9.5 mm shaft
- 25k tone potentiometer with 9.5 mm shaft
- Stereo output jack
- Dual pickup in/out bus configuration
- Includes mounting hardware, springs, cables, and battery bus
- Metal body construction
- Bridge and neck position compatible
The EMG 85-7 combines the articulate midrange definition of active electronics with the extended-range versatility seven-string instruments require, delivering reliable tracking performance with minimal maintenance between sessions.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-7 is an active soapbar designed for seven-string tracking and layering, offering articulate midrange definition that cuts through dense mixes without muddiness or excessive noise floor. Its medium output and controlled sustain translate well to metal, progressive, and djent sessions where punchy, controlled tone is essential. Use it for recording extended-range riffs that need definition and aggression without losing note separation.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Djent, Progressive, Extended Range |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate midrange, controlled sustain, medium output, aggressive character, low noise |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pickup easy to install if I've never done it before?
The solderless connectivity system eliminates soldering entirely, making installation straightforward for both technicians and experienced players. All necessary hardware, cables, and mounting components are included for a complete drop-in solution.
What tunings and genres does this pickup work best for?
The EMG 85-7 is engineered for metal, djent, progressive, and other extended-range tunings where articulate midrange and controlled sustain are priorities. It is not recommended for jazz, blues, or folk applications.
How does the 9V battery system work, and how often do I need to replace it?
The active system runs on a single 9V battery connected through the included battery bus and cable, providing consistent output and lower noise than passive pickups. Battery life depends on playing time and can typically last several months with regular use.
Can I use this pickup in both bridge and neck positions?
Yes, the EMG 85-7 is compatible with both bridge and neck positions, offering versatility across your seven-string setup.
How does this compare to other seven-string active pickups like the Seymour Duncan Distortion 7?
The EMG 85-7 delivers articulate midrange punch with medium output and low noise, positioning it as a tightly defined alternative to higher-output models. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize clarity and control or maximum aggression and sustain.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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