EMG 81-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4326
Description
EMG 81-7H 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81-7H is a direct replacement bridge or neck humbucker engineered specifically for 7-string instruments. This active pickup delivers the tight, articulate response that defines EMG's signature character, with ceramic magnets and controlled output that cuts through dense tunings without muddiness. Onstage and in the studio, the 81-7H maintains definition and punch regardless of how low you tune—essential for gigging players who need their signal to stay locked in through a full set. The solderless wiring system makes installation straightforward, and the included potentiometers integrate seamlessly into most instrument controls.
Tone & Output Characteristics
Output measures 3.00V RMS / 4.50V peak, providing defined gain without excess compression. The ceramic magnet design yields a focused high-mid presence and controlled bass response, ideal for seven-string drop tunings and heavy rhythm work. Live reliability means stable signal integrity through long cable runs—10 kΩ impedance ensures your tone stays consistent from soundcheck to the final song.
Power & Installation
The pickup runs on a single 9V battery with exceptional efficiency—80 µA current draw translates to approximately 3000 hours of battery life between replacements. That's enough juice to carry you through months of steady gigging and rehearsals without worrying about mid-show dropout. The included solderless wiring system, battery clip, stereo output jack, and connection cables minimize assembly complexity, while the 25k volume and 25k tone potentiometers provide familiar control topology.
Key Features
- Active humbucker design optimized for 7-string instruments
- Ceramic magnet construction
- Passive mount housing
- 3.00V RMS / 4.50V peak output voltage
- 10 kΩ impedance
- Powered by single 9V battery
- 80 µA current consumption for extended battery life (approximately 3000 hours)
- Includes 25k volume potentiometer and 25k tone potentiometer
- Solderless wiring system included
- Stereo output jack with pickup and connection cables
- Black Chrome finish
- Bridge or neck position compatible
The 81-7H combines EMG's proven active topology with seven-string voicing, delivering articulate, controlled output suitable for extended-range instruments across modern and classic heavy styles. Load one into your rig and feel the difference—tonal clarity and road-tested durability in a single pickup.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81-7H is an active humbucker built specifically for 7-string guitars, delivering tight low end and articulate mids that cut through drop tunings without muddiness. Built for metal, djent, and extended-range players who need precision and clarity under heavy string tension, this pickup offers controlled output, ceramic clarity, and solderless installation that gets you gigging fast. Choose it if you're running a 7-string in a high-gain rig and need a pickup that stays focused and punchy no matter how low you tune.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Djent, Drop Tunings, Extended Range |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Tight low end, articulate mids, controlled output, focused high-mid presence, ceramic clarity |
| Less specialized for | Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pickup suitable for both bridge and neck positions?
Yes, the EMG 81-7H is compatible with both bridge and neck positions on 7-string instruments. It uses a passive mount housing designed to fit standard 7-string pickup cavities.
How long does the 9V battery last?
The 9V battery lasts approximately 3000 hours of playing time due to the pickup's efficient 80 µA current draw, meaning you can go months between replacements with regular use.
What genres and tunings is this pickup best for?
The 81-7H excels in metal, djent, and modern heavy music, especially with drop tunings. It is not optimized for jazz, blues, or folk applications.
How complicated is installation?
Installation is straightforward thanks to the included solderless wiring system, battery clip, stereo output jack, and connection cables. The 25k volume and tone potentiometers integrate with standard guitar controls.
How does the output compare to passive pickups?
The 81-7H delivers 3.00V RMS (4.50V peak) output with controlled gain and no excess compression, providing defined articulation without the muddiness that can occur with passive pickups in extended tunings.
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.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.