EMG 85-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG7569
Description
EMG 85-7XH Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The EMG 85-7XH captures aggressive, focused output essential for tracking and mixing seven-string material in modern studio contexts. This pickup combines Alnico V magnets with a close aperture coil design to cut through dense tunings with clarity and punch, while the long shaft housing accommodates deeper guitar cavities without modification. The gold finish pairs visual distinction with proven performance across high-gain and extended-range recording applications.
Active Electronics & Installation
Powered by a single 9V battery, this pickup runs EMG's X series preamp circuitry, which provides consistent output and low noise across the entire dynamic range—critical for reliable tracking and punch-through in dense mixes. The solderless quick-connect wiring system speeds installation and reduces the chance of cold solder joints, enabling quick pickups swaps during sessions or when dialing in tones for different song arrangements.
Recording & Mix Performance
The close aperture coils focus magnetic flux for articulate note definition and reduced string bleed, allowing each string to sit clearly in the mix when layering rhythm and lead parts across seven-string tunings. Output remains punchy and direct without the coloration of passive designs, translating well to both modern metal productions and high-output rhythm tracking where clarity in the low end matters.
Key Features
- Seven-string active humbucker configuration
- Alnico V magnet material
- X series preamp electronics
- Close aperture coils for focused tone and reduced crosstalk
- Long shaft design for recessed cavity mounting
- 9V battery power requirement
- Solderless quick-connect wiring system
- Gold finish
The 85-7XH remains a reliable choice for studio musicians and producers recording seven-string material who demand controlled aggression, clear articulation, and straightforward installation in extended-range platforms.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 85-7XH is an active seven-string humbucker that tracks and articulates cleanly across dense, low tunings while staying punchy and defined in the mix. Its close-aperture design cuts through without harshness, and the X series preamp delivers consistent, low-noise output that sits well in layered high-gain recordings and rhythm-heavy sessions. The solderless wiring and long shaft housing make it a straightforward drop-in for home studio and project guitars alike.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Djent, Drop Tunings, Extended Range, High-Gain |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Aggressive, focused, articulate, punchy, 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
Will this pickup fit my seven-string guitar without cavity modification?
The long shaft design is engineered for recessed cavities and accommodates deeper guitar construction without modification. If your cavity is unusually shallow or custom-routed, measure the shaft length against your guitar's depth first.
What kind of tone should I expect in metal and djent applications?
The 85-7XH delivers aggressive, focused output with tight articulation and reduced string bleed, making it ideal for high-gain work and controlled clarity across drop tunings. The close-aperture coils keep notes defined without coloration, sitting well in dense, layered high-gain voicings.
What's included in the box, and how hard is installation?
The pickup ships ready to install with a solderless quick-connect wiring system that eliminates cold solder joints and speeds up swaps or maintenance. You'll need a single 9V battery to power the X series preamp electronics.
How does the EMG 85-7XH compare to other seven-string active pickups?
The 85-7XH sits between the tighter 81-7H and other high-output seven-string designs, offering punchy, direct tone with the clarity needed for extended-range platforms. Alnico V magnets and close-aperture coils give it an edge in focus and articulation compared to passive alternatives and some competing active models.
Is this pickup suitable for jazz, blues, or folk playing?
No; the 85-7XH is engineered for metal, djent, and high-gain extended-range work. Its aggressive, focused character and active electronics are optimized for dense tunings and modern high-output applications, not the tonal warmth and dynamism those genres require.
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. At a typical 7% rate that is an estimated $10 less at checkout than the same listed price on a marketplace, which collects sales tax as the facilitator in most states. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.