EMG4317 vs EMG4380 — Compare
EMG 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG 60 is an active pickup delivering articulate, studio-focused clarity ideal for modern lead and rhythm work, while the EMG H4 is a passive pickup offering warm, balanced tones suited to blues and rock without battery maintenance. Choose the 60 for contemporary precision; choose the H4 for traditional passive character and simplicity.
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EMG 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 60 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Active design with -89dBV noise floor ensures studio-grade signal cleanliness
- ✓ Articulate, tight low end and focused midrange for lead playing precision
- ✓ 3,000-hour battery life and solderless connectivity minimize maintenance
- ✓ Balanced clarity and aggression works equally well for lead and rhythm
Why choose EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Passive design eliminates battery dependence and ongoing maintenance
- ✓ Smooth midrange and warm ceramic tone ideal for blues and classic rock
- ✓ 13.65kOhm DC resistance provides balanced output across all registers
- ✓ Fully shielded construction reduces noise in passive architecture
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup requires less maintenance?
The EMG H4 requires no maintenance since it's fully passive with no battery. The EMG 60 needs a 9V battery replacement every 3,000 hours of use, though this translates to months or years depending on playing frequency.
Which is better for metal or aggressive genres?
The EMG 60 is better suited for metal and modern high-gain styles due to its articulate, controlled response and studio signal cleanliness. The EMG H4 is explicitly not ideal for metal or djent applications, as it's voiced for blues and rock.
What's the tonal difference between these pickups?
The EMG 60 delivers focused, tight tones with controlled treble and articulate midrange for precision. The EMG H4 produces smoother, warmer midrange with balanced dynamics and moderate sustain, characteristic of traditional passive humbuckers.
Are both suitable for home recording?
Yes, both are listed as suitable for home recording. The EMG 60 excels at capturing clean, detailed signals; the EMG H4 is excellent for capturing warm, balanced tones without active electronics coloration.