EMG4349 vs EMG4351 — Compare
EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold vs EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
The EMG 81-7XH prioritizes surgical clarity and tight aggression with a traditional humbucker format, while the EMG 85-7XH adds active tone shaping via voltage-controlled filter and Alnico V magnets for more versatile clean-to-high-gain response. Choose the 81-7XH for pure metal definition; choose the 85-7XH if you need tonal flexibility and real-time frequency control.
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EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold | EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 81-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Surgical clarity and articulation optimized for dense, heavy tunings
- ✓ Traditional humbucker format familiar to most players
- ✓ Straightforward active circuit with no tone-shaping learning curve
- ✓ Solderless wiring for quick installation
Why choose EMG 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Alnico V magnet with close-aperture coils for extended dynamic range
- ✓ Voltage-controlled low-pass filter for real-time tone sculpting
- ✓ Equally responsive in clean and high-gain contexts
- ✓ X-series preamp architecture offers more tonal versatility
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has more output?
Both are high-output active designs. The 81-7XH emphasizes surgical clarity through its circuit design, while the 85-7XH uses Alnico V magnets and extended dynamic range; output levels are comparable, but tonal character differs.
Can I use either pickup for clean tones?
The 85-7XH is explicitly designed to be responsive in clean contexts thanks to its Alnico V design and voltage-controlled filter. The 81-7XH excels at high-gain aggression but can handle cleans with less tonal flexibility.
What is the main difference in control options?
The 85-7XH includes a voltage-controlled low-pass filter (VLPF) for real-time frequency adjustment, while the 81-7XH is a straightforward active humbucker without on-the-fly tone shaping.
Are both easy to install?
Yes, both feature solderless quick-connect wiring systems, eliminating the need for soldering skills and making installation straightforward for either bridge or neck position.