Is this pickup suitable for 8-string guitars, and what tunings does it handle?

Yes—the EMG 57-8H is specifically designed as a bridge humbucker for 8-string instruments and performs well across metal, progressive, djent, and drop-tuning applications. The tight, controlled low end and Alnico V magnets maintain string-to-string balance and clarity even in extended tunings.

What's included in the box, and do I need to buy anything else to install it?

The pickup ships with everything needed: two 25k volume potentiometers, two 25k tone potentiometers, battery bus, stereo output jack, mounting hardware, and cables. Solderless installation means no additional wiring components are required.

How does this compare to other 8-string pickups like the Seymour Duncan Pegasus or Fishman Fluence Modern?

The EMG 57-8H emphasizes tight lows, articulate mids, and compressed highs with active electronics for consistent output and low noise—a proven choice for metal and progressive genres. The Pegasus, Fluence Modern, and Crunch Lab each offer different sonic profiles; compare based on your preferred tone character and whether you want active or passive circuitry.

Can I use this pickup in rhythm and lead playing?

Yes—the active circuitry and Alnico V construction deliver consistent performance for both rhythm and lead work, making it versatile across the 8-string's range.

Is solderless installation really easier than traditional wiring?

Yes—the solderless system eliminates hand-soldering complexity; components plug directly into the cavity. All potentiometers, battery bus, and output jack are included and ready to integrate.

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.

EMG 57-8H Active Humbucker Pickup in Red

The EMG 57-8H delivers tight, articulate response across all eight strings with the clarity and aggression that define modern extended-range instruments. Built with Alnico V magnets and active electronics, this bridge humbucker cuts through dense mixes while maintaining string-to-string balance that 8-string players demand. The red finish stands out visually without compromising the pickup's proven sonic character.

Tone & Electronics

Active circuitry provides consistent output and low noise across the full frequency spectrum, essential when tracking or performing live with extended tunings. The Alnico V magnet and steel pole piece construction delivers the signature EMG punch—compressed highs, defined mids, and controlled lows that work equally well for rhythm and lead work.

Installation & Components

Solderless installation eliminates traditional wiring complexity; the included potentiometers, battery bus, output jack, and mounting hardware integrate directly into the cavity. All components ship with the pickup, streamlining the build or retrofit process without requiring additional purchases.

Key Features

Eight-string active humbucker for bridge position
Alnico V magnets with steel pole pieces
Active electronics for consistent output and low noise
Solderless installation system
Includes 2× 25k volume potentiometers
Includes 2× 25k tone potentiometers
Battery bus and stereo output jack included
Complete mounting hardware and cables provided
USA manufactured
Red finish

This pickup delivers the precision and aggression 8-string players expect, with all the supporting hardware needed to get it installed and running immediately.

Best suited for	Metal, Progressive, Djent, Extended Range, Drop Tunings
Tonal character	Tight low end, articulate response, compressed highs, defined mids, controlled lows
Less specialized for	Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional