What makes the 85-7XH different from the 81-7XH?

The 85-7XH features a close-aperture coil design and defined midrange character that emphasizes articulation and clarity, while the 81-7XH is voiced for more aggressive high-end presence. Both are active designs; the 85 is better for players who prioritize punch and definition across dense tunings.

Does this pickup work with any 7-string guitar?

The 85-7XH uses standard humbucker spacing and a soapbar housing that fits most 7-string pickup cavities. It has 2-conductor wiring and 2K ohm DC resistance, making it compatible with standard 7-string wiring schemes, though you should verify your guitar's cavity dimensions before purchase.

What does the solderless install system include?

The solderless system is included with the pickup and reduces setup time and thermal damage risk compared to traditional soldering. This makes installation faster and safer for both experienced builders and first-time installers.

How long does a 9V battery last in this pickup?

The description confirms the pickup operates on a single 9V battery and delivers consistent output, though specific battery life depends on use and is not detailed in the product specs provided.

Is this pickup suitable for jazz or blues?

This pickup is optimized for metal, djent, and progressive music where tight lows and articulate mids are essential; it is not recommended for jazz or blues applications where warmer, less aggressive tones are typically preferred.

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. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. 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 85-7XH 7-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome

The EMG 85-7XH is built for 7-string players who need a pickup that cuts through the low end without getting muddy or losing definition. This active humbucker's tight, articulate character keeps every note distinct even in dense tunings—critical for live work and studio tracking where clarity matters. The brushed chrome finish looks modern on stage, and the compact soapbar housing fits standard 7-string cavities without modification.

Tone & Electronics

The Alnico 5 bar-shaped magnet and close-aperture coils lock in the classic EMG 85 sound: midrange punch that sits right in the mix, controlled highs that don't get shrill, and solid low end that holds its own against rhythm section instruments. Running on a single 9V battery, the active circuit delivers rock-solid output and impedance consistency across the entire frequency range—no noise floor creep, no signal degradation as you dig in. That's the reliability you need on the road.

Installation & Compatibility

The solderless install system means faster swap-outs between gigs and zero risk of frying components with an iron. Standard 2-conductor configuration and 2K ohm DC resistance drop straight into most 7-string wiring harnesses without custom work. USA-made means you've got consistent quality and real support behind the gear.

Key Features

Active humbucker design optimized for 7-string instruments
Alnico 5 bar-shaped magnet for focused, defined tone
Close-aperture coils reduce string crosstalk and enhance clarity
9V battery-powered active circuit
DC Resistance: 2K ohms
2-conductor configuration for standard wiring
Solderless install system included
Brushed chrome finish
Soapbar/humbucker housing format
Made in the USA

The 85-7XH delivers EMG's active precision in a finish that looks the part on any modern 7-string. Trust it to stay articulate and punchy through a full night of gigging.