EMG4171 vs EMG4195 — Compare

EMG H2A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG 60A Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

The H2A-N is a passive humbucker requiring no batteries, while the 60A is an active design that needs a 9V cell but delivers more consistent output and lower noise. Choose the H2A-N for players preferring simplicity and no maintenance; pick the 60A for those wanting active electronics with extended battery life and studio-grade noise performance.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG H2A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

$129.00
View EMG H2A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

EMG 60A Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$129.00
View EMG 60A Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

Specs side by side

EMG H2A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black ChromeEMG 60A Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Price$129.00$129.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG H2A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome

  • ✓ Passive design—no batteries or onboard electronics to maintain or replace
  • ✓ 5-wire cable enables series/parallel switching and coil-splitting options
  • ✓ Alnico V magnet with punchy lows and articulate highs suited to rock and metal
  • ✓ Solderless install system included for quick, tool-free setup

Why choose EMG 60A Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ Active circuitry with -89 dBV noise floor for studio-grade cleanliness
  • ✓ 3000-hour battery life on minimal 80 microamp draw per battery change
  • ✓ Alnico magnets deliver harmonically rich, warm midrange response
  • ✓ Long-shaft design (18.7mm threaded) fits standard cavities without modification
Bottom line: Choose the H2A-N if you want passive operation, wiring flexibility, and no battery maintenance for rock and metal play. Choose the 60A if you value active electronics, ultra-low noise, and extended battery intervals for studio and high-gain work.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need batteries for either pickup?

The H2A-N is entirely passive and requires no batteries or power source. The 60A requires a single 9V battery that lasts approximately 3000 hours due to its 80 microamp current draw.

Which is quieter in studio sessions?

The 60A active humbucker delivers -89 dBV output noise specification for professional studio clarity. The H2A-N is passive and produces noise dependent on amplifier and pedal chain impedance matching rather than onboard electronics.

Can I switch between series and parallel wiring on either pickup?

The H2A-N ships with a 5-wire cable enabling series/parallel and coil-splitting combinations. The 60A is an active humbucker without switchable wiring options in the standard configuration.

Which pickup is easier to install?

The H2A-N includes EMG's Solderless Install System with pre-assembled cables and 500k potentiometers for tool-free installation. The 60A's long shaft design fits standard cavities directly, though it requires 9V battery routing for active operation.

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