EMG 85-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4337
Description
EMG 85-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 85-7H delivers a tight, focused character that cuts through dense seven-string tunings without sacrificing articulation or definition on tape or in the DAW. This active humbucker balances aggression with precision, tracking cleanly across high-output rhythmic riffs and expressive lead passages alike. The gold finish variant adds visual distinction while maintaining the proven electronics that have made the 85 line essential in professional studio and touring setups.
Tone & Output Characteristics
A 3.10 V RMS output with 4.50 V peak output feeds into preamps and interfaces with substantial signal drive—enough to lock in tight without excessive compression or frequency masking—while the 1870 Hz resonant frequency maintains clarity and separation across the mix. The Alnico V magnet and bar-shaped design yield the characteristic punch and midrange presence the 85 is known for, translating with authority through both high-gain and moderate gain amplification chains.
Power & Reliability
9V battery powered operation with an 80 µA current draw ensures extended battery life of approximately 3000 hours, minimizing downtime between tracking sessions and live dates. The -101 dBV output noise floor and 10 kΩ output impedance deliver clean signal transmission with minimal interference, essential for capturing noise-free recordings and maintaining stability through long mixing and mastering workflows.
Key Features
- Active humbucker design optimized for seven-string configuration
- Alnico V bar-shaped magnet
- Output voltage: 3.10 V RMS / 4.50 V peak
- Output noise: -101 dBV
- Output impedance: 10 kΩ
- 9V battery power requirement
- Battery life: approximately 3000 hours
- Current draw @ 9V: 80 µA
- Resonant frequency: 1870 Hz
- Gold finish
- Seven-string humbucker format
The EMG 85-7H in gold is a direct replacement or upgrade that brings proven active electronics and tonal authority to extended-range instruments in the studio and beyond.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-7H is a high-output active pickup engineered for tracking heavy and progressive music on seven-string guitars, delivering focused midrange and tight low-end definition that translates cleanly to tape and digital interfaces. Its -101 dBV noise floor and balanced output (3.10 V RMS) sit well in dense mixes without requiring heavy compression, making it reliable for multi-take sessions and layering. The extended 3000-hour battery life means minimal interruptions during long studio days, and its articulate character preserves note separation even in saturated, high-gain contexts.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level do I need to install this pickup?
Installation requires intermediate to advanced soldering and wiring skills, or professional installation. The EMG 85-7H is a drop-in seven-string format, but it is an active pickup that requires a 9V battery cavity and proper wiring to an onboard preamp system.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The 9V battery provides approximately 3000 hours of playing time with an 80 µA current draw. This translates to roughly four months of regular gigging or studio use before replacement is needed.
Is this pickup suitable for jazz or blues?
No, the EMG 85-7H is optimized for metal, progressive, and modern high-gain contexts. Its aggressive, punchy character and high output (3.10 V RMS) are designed for tight, articulate attack rather than the smooth, warm tones favored in jazz and blues.
How does this compare to Seymour Duncan Blackouts or DiMarzio Crunchlab seven-string pickups?
All three are high-output active seven-string options for metal and progressive music. The EMG 85-7H emphasizes midrange presence and articulation, while competitors offer different tonal balances; choice depends on whether you prioritize clarity and definition or a different frequency emphasis.
What is the resonant frequency and why does it matter?
The 1870 Hz resonant frequency maintains clarity across the frequency spectrum, preventing mud in heavy tunings and ensuring definition during fast lead passages. This is critical for extended-range instruments where tighter control prevents frequency buildup.
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. 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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