EMG 81-7X 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4237
Description
EMG 81-7X 7-String Active Soapbar Pickup in Ivory
The EMG 81-7X is built for 7-string rigs that need to cut through live mixes with surgical precision. This active humbucker delivers the aggressive, articulate punch that modern extended-range metal and hard rock demand—tight low-end definition, clear midrange snap, and controlled sustain that sits well in a band context without muddying dense arrangements. The smooth-top soapbar housing keeps your instrument looking sharp on stage, while the solderless quick-connect system gets you up and running with minimal wiring hassle.
Tone & Output Performance
Built to handle high-gain applications, the 81-7X produces a 1.25V RMS output with 1.75V peak voltage for punchy, responsive attack on every note. The 2.25 kHz resonant frequency emphasizes vocal midrange clarity that stays locked in a mix, while -91 dBV output noise keeps your signal clean and quiet even with aggressive gain staging—critical for reliable lead work and crushing rhythm tones night after night.
Design & Connectivity
This pickup runs on proven ceramic magnet technology powered by a single 9V battery rated for a dependable 3000-hour lifespan, so you'll get through plenty of gigs before changing it out. EMG's Quik-connect terminals integrate with your existing setup without fuss, and the included 25k volume pot, active tone control (VLPF), and complete wiring harness ship ready to go—swap it in with minimal soldering required.
Key Features
- 7-string active humbucker for extended-range instruments
- 1.25V RMS output voltage with 1.75V peak response
- Ceramic magnet construction
- 2.25 kHz resonant frequency for articulate midrange clarity
- -91 dBV output noise floor
- 10 kΩ output impedance
- EMG Quik-connect solderless wiring system
- 9V battery power with 3000-hour battery life (80 μA current draw)
- Smooth-top soapbar housing designed for 7-string routed instruments
- Includes 25k volume pot, active tone pot (VLPF), battery bus, and complete cable harness
- Ivory finish
The 81-7X pairs EMG's battle-tested active electronics with extended-range voicing, giving you the tight, controlled articulation that modern 7-string players count on for live reliability and recording clarity.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81-7X is a high-output active humbucker built specifically for 7-string extended-range guitars, delivering aggressive, articulate tone with a tight low end that cuts through heavy riffs and dense mixes. Built on ceramic magnets and powered by a long-life 9V battery, it pairs EMG's solderless quick-connect system with a complete wiring harness for straightforward installation. Metal and hard-rock players demanding clarity, punch, and road-reliable performance will find this pickup engineered for drop tunings and lead work without compromise.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive, Extended Range, Drop Tunings |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Aggressive, articulate, tight low end, high output, midrange 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
What is the output level and will it work with high-gain amp settings?
The 81-7X delivers 1.25V RMS with a 1.75V peak output and a -91 dBV noise floor, making it well-suited to high-gain playing. The articulate midrange and punchy attack remain clear even at extreme gain settings.
Is this pickup designed for 7-string instruments, and does it fit standard routes?
Yes, the 81-7X is built specifically for 7-string extended-range guitars in the standard soapbar size with smooth-top housing. It is designed for instruments routed to accept 7-string pickups.
How long does the battery last and how is it powered?
The pickup runs on a single 9V battery with a 3000-hour lifespan and draws only 80 μA current, providing reliable extended operation. The battery bus is included in the wiring harness.
What installation tools or soldering is required?
The 81-7X uses EMG's solderless Quik-connect wiring system, eliminating most soldering work. The complete harness, 25k volume pot, active tone control (VLPF), and cable are all included, making installation minimal.
What genres or playing styles is this pickup best for?
The 81-7X excels in metal, hard rock, progressive, and drop-tuning applications where articulation and output clarity are essential. It is not optimized for jazz, blues, or folk genres.
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.