EMG6471 vs EMG6573 — Compare
EMG HX Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG HX is a single-coil-in-humbucker design for players seeking articulate, bright definition across rock and progressive styles, while the EMG 81-7H is a dedicated 7-string humbucker built for aggressive midrange and tight lows in metal and drop-tuning contexts. Choose the HX for standard 6-string guitars needing clarity; choose the 81-7H if you play 7-string instruments and prioritize heavy, controlled aggression.
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EMG HX Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG HX Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG HX Long Shaft Active Single Coil Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Single-coil clarity and articulation in humbucker form factor—unique tonal character
- ✓ Active Tone Control (VLPF) lets you dial in high-frequency response on the fly
- ✓ Fits standard humbucker cavities without modification; retrofit-friendly for existing guitars
- ✓ Broader genre appeal beyond metal—excels in rock, progressive, and studio work
Why choose EMG 81-7H Long Shaft 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Engineered specifically for 7-string extended-range instruments
- ✓ Signature aggressive midrange and tight low end tailored for drop tunings and metal
- ✓ Longer battery life (3000 hours) compared to standard active pickups
- ✓ Higher peak voltage (4.50V) and output deliver punchy, controlled clarity for heavy playing
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 81-7H on a standard 6-string guitar?
Technically yes, but it is designed and voiced specifically for 7-string instruments. On a 6-string it may not deliver the intended tonal character and extended-range response EMG engineered into the 81-7H platform.
Which pickup is better for classic rock or blues?
The EMG HX is better suited to those genres because of its single-coil definition and Active Tone Control flexibility. The 81-7H is explicitly not ideal for jazz or blues and is voiced for modern metal and progressive music.
Do both pickups require soldering?
No. Both ship with EMG's solderless installation system, meaning no soldering is required—all potentiometers, jacks, cables, and connectors plug together directly.
What is the main tone difference between these two?
The HX emphasizes bright, articulate single-coil clarity with rich harmonics and adjustable high-end rolloff. The 81-7H emphasizes aggressive midrange punch and tight, controlled low end—designed for heavy genres and extended tunings.