What makes the EMG 81-7 different from passive pickups?

The 81-7 is active, meaning it runs on a 9V battery and delivers a consistent, high-output signal (1.75V peak) with minimal noise (–91 dBV). This gives you more authority in the mix and cleaner tone at extreme volumes or through heavy processing, compared to passive designs that degrade signal over cable runs or through multiple effects.

How long does the 9V battery last?

The battery lasts approximately 3000 hours of playing time with a single 9V battery. The circuit draws only 80 microamps, making it very efficient for extended touring or recording sessions.

Is this pickup easy to install?

Yes. The EMG 81-7 includes EMG's solderless quick-connect wiring system, eliminating the need to solder and allowing straightforward installation with minimal downtime. The soapbar form factor fits standard seven-string routing without modification.

What genres and tunings is this pickup designed for?

The 81-7 is engineered for metal, djent, extended-range, and drop-tuning applications. Its tight low end and articulate response make it less suitable for jazz, blues, or folk styles.

How does the 81-7 compare to other active seven-string pickups?

The EMG 81-7 competes with models like the Seymour Duncan Blackouts 7-String, Fishman Fluence Modern 7-String, and DiMarzio D-Activator 7. The 81-7 is known for its punchy, aggressive character and industry-standard reliability in extended-range platforms.

Do I pay sales tax on this order?

We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.

EMG 81-7 Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory

The EMG 81-7 is a high-output active pickup engineered for seven-string instruments, delivering aggressive, articulate response with minimal noise floor. Its smooth-top soapbar housing sits flush in standard seven-string routing, providing a clean aesthetic while maintaining full tonal control across extended range applications. Built for players demanding tight, defined output without compromise.

Tone & Output Performance

This active design produces a peak output of 1.75V and RMS output of 1.25V, giving you authority and presence in the mix with minimal signal degradation. The resonant frequency of 2.25 kHz and –91 dBV output noise floor ensure clarity and separation even at extreme volumes or through heavily processed rigs.

Power & Installation

The pickup runs on a single 9V battery with 3000-hour battery life, paired with EMG's solderless quick-connect wiring system for straightforward installation and minimal downtime. Drawing only 80 microamps at 9V, this circuit is engineered for extended reliability and efficient power draw.

Key Features

Soapbar smooth-top form factor designed for seven-string instruments
Ceramic magnets with close aperture coils
Peak output voltage: 1.75V
RMS output voltage: 1.25V
Resonant frequency: 2.25 kHz
Output noise: –91 dBV
Output impedance: 10 kΩ
Current draw: 80 microamps @ 9V
Battery life: 3000 hours on single 9V battery
EMG solderless quick-connect wiring included
Ivory finish cosmetics
Active circuitry for consistent gain and response

The 81-7 delivers the defined, punchy character EMG is known for, with specifications optimized specifically for the extended range and tonal demands of seven-string platforms.