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EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black vs EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
The EMG 81-7 is an active 7-string guitar pickup built for high-gain metal and extended-range tunings, while the EMG MMHZ is a passive bass pickup for Music Man basses suited to funk and jazz. They serve completely different instruments and genres—choose based on whether you're upgrading a 7-string guitar or a 4-string bass.
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EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black | EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $119.00 | $119.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black
- ✓ High output (1.75V peak) and articulate attack ideal for metal and djent
- ✓ Active electronics with long 3000-hour battery life minimize maintenance
- ✓ Solderless Quik-connect wiring speeds up installation
- ✓ Compact soapbar form fits standard 7-string cavities
Why choose EMG MMHZ Passive Humbucker Bass Pickup in Black
- ✓ Passive design requires no batteries or external power
- ✓ Ceramic and steel construction delivers balanced, organic tone
- ✓ Full electromagnetic shielding reduces noise in studio and live settings
- ✓ Flexible five-pin connector allows dual-coil or single-coil wiring modes
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the EMG 81-7 on a standard 6-string guitar?
No. The EMG 81-7 is designed specifically for 7-string instruments and will not fit standard 6-string pickup cavities. It requires a guitar with a seven-string soapbar cavity.
Does the EMG MMHZ work on any bass, or only Music Man?
The MMHZ is a direct replacement for Music Man bass pickups and fits standard Music Man pickup cavities. It will not fit other bass brands without modification.
Which pickup is better for recording?
The EMG MMHZ is noted for studio sessions and delivers balanced midrange articulation with organic response, making it well-suited to recording. The 81-7 is designed for live metal and extreme gain, not studio versatility.
Do I need to solder either pickup?
The EMG 81-7 includes Quik-connect solderless wiring for quick installation. The EMG MMHZ uses a five-pin connector, which typically requires soldering or a compatible wiring harness depending on your bass's existing configuration.