What makes this pickup different from the EMG 81-7?

The EMG 66-7 is optimized for the seven-string format with a focused midrange and articulate upper-mids at 1.61 KHz, making it ideal for extended-range and drop-tuned instruments. The 81-7 is tuned differently for other applications; the 66-7 delivers tighter lows and clearer note separation on lower strings.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The battery provides approximately 1500 hours of typical usage on a single 9V cell, and the pickup draws only 160 microamps, so battery changes are infrequent even with regular gigging.

Is this pickup suitable for jazz or blues?

No. The EMG 66-7 is engineered for metal, djent, progressive, and extended-range styles; its focused midrange and high output character is not voiced for jazz or blues tones.

What comes in the box and how difficult is installation?

The pickup includes a split shaft volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs. The solderless installation system makes it a straightforward swap for most extended-range configurations, though basic guitar electronics familiarity is recommended.

What is the noise floor, and will it hum on long cable runs?

The noise floor measures -100 dB at 60 Hz with 10 Kohm output impedance, which means minimal hum and transparent signal delivery regardless of cable length or stage conditions—a key advantage of the active circuit.

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. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG 66-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Black

The EMG 66-7 is a seven-string extended-range active pickup built for players pushing into lower tunings who need crystal-clear articulation across the entire frequency spectrum. Its compact soapbar form factor and solderless installation make it a straightforward swap for existing configurations, while the active circuit delivers consistent output and minimal noise floor regardless of cable length or stage conditions.

Tone & Electronics

Built with an Alnico magnet and ceramic pole pieces, this pickup produces a focused midrange character optimized for the extended seven-string format. The 1.61 KHz resonant frequency positions the peak response in the articulate upper-midrange, ideal for cutting through dense mixes and maintaining note definition on lower tunings—essential when you're playing heavier material in a live setting.

Power & Performance

The active circuit runs on a single 9V battery with an impressive 1500-hour battery life at typical usage levels, and draws only 160 microamps when powered. Output measures 3.00V on a single string and 4.50V when strummed, with a low -100 dB noise floor at 60 Hz and 10 Kohm output impedance for transparent signal delivery to your amp or interface.

Key Features

Seven-string extended series design (3.5 x 1.5 inch cap)
Active circuitry powered by 9V battery
Alnico magnet with ceramic pole pieces
1.61 KHz resonant frequency for focused midrange response
3.00V output voltage (single string)
4.50V output voltage (full strum)
-100 dB noise floor at 60 Hz
10 Kohm output impedance
160 microamps current draw at 9V
1500-hour battery life per set
Solderless installation system
Includes split shaft volume/tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, screws, and springs

This pickup delivers the noise rejection and output consistency active electronics are known for, packaged in a format purpose-built for extended-range instruments and road-tested reliability.

Best suited for	Metal, Djent, Progressive, Extended Range, Drop Tunings
Tonal character	Focused midrange, articulate upper-mids, tight low end, high output, low noise floor
Less specialized for	Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional