EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed 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
- EMG4351
Description
EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 85-7XH captures articulate, controlled aggression through its close-aperture Alnico V design, engineered specifically for extended-range seven-string instruments. This active humbucker combines tight low-end definition with responsive midrange clarity, tracking cleanly across high-gain sessions and maintaining separation in clean recording contexts. The brushed black chrome finish integrates seamlessly with modern instrument aesthetics while the soapbar format maintains a professional appearance in any guitar body.
Active Electronics & Tone Shaping for Studio Control
Powered by a standard 9V battery, this pickup operates with EMG's X-series preamp featuring an active tone control system with voltage-controlled low-pass filter (VLPF) for real-time frequency sculpting during recording and mixing. The 2K ohm DC resistance and active circuit ensure consistent output levels and extended dynamic range across all seven strings without signal degradation or impedance loading issues, critical for maintaining punch and clarity in dense mixes.
Installation & Workflow
The solderless system eliminates traditional wiring complexity, allowing for straightforward installation into compatible seven-string guitar cavities and speeding setup between sessions. The two-conductor design simplifies integration while maintaining the full tonal capabilities of the X-series preamp architecture, keeping your signal path transparent and your workflow uncompromised.
Key Features
- Magnet Material: Alnico V with close-aperture coils
- DC Resistance: 2K ohms
- Format: Soapbar
- Active circuitry with 9V battery operation
- X-series preamp with VLPF active tone control
- Two-conductor configuration
- Solderless system for tool-free installation
- Designed for 7-string instruments
- Made in USA
The 85-7XH represents EMG's commitment to extended-range instruments, delivering the tight articulation and controlled output that modern seven-string recording and production demand.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-7XH is a purpose-built 7-string active pickup that captures tight, articulate lows and responsive mids ideal for tracking heavy music, progressive compositions, and genre-blending sessions. Its 2K ohm DC resistance and active tone-control preamp let you sculpt frequency in real time while maintaining consistent levels and clarity across all seven strings, making it versatile enough for both aggressive and clean recording contexts. Solderless installation and USA construction mean reliable performance in the studio.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Djent
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Extended Range
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What tunings and genres does the 85-7XH work best for?
This pickup is engineered for metal, djent, progressive, and drop-tuning applications. Its tight low end and articulate midrange excel in high-gain contexts, but the responsive clean tone also works in non-heavy styles—though it is not designed for jazz, blues, or folk playing.
How does the active circuitry affect tone and setup?
The X-series preamp with voltage-controlled low-pass filter (VLPF) lets you shape frequency response in real time. Active operation via 9V battery ensures consistent output levels and extended dynamic range across all seven strings without impedance loading issues.
Is this easy to install?
Yes. The solderless two-conductor system eliminates traditional wiring complexity, allowing tool-free installation into any compatible 7-string guitar cavity.
How does the 85-7XH compare to other 7-string actives?
The 85-7XH uses a close-aperture Alnico V design with 2K ohm DC resistance and active tone control. Comparable alternatives include the Seymour Duncan Blackout 7-String, DiMarzio D-Activator 7, EMG 81-7XH, and Fishman Fluence Modern 7—each with different voicings and control architectures.
What finish does it come in?
The pickup features a brushed black chrome finish in soapbar format, designed to integrate with modern instrument aesthetics while maintaining a professional appearance.
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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