EMG4380 vs EMG4381 — Compare
EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The H4 uses ceramic magnets for a smooth, balanced tone suited to blues and rock, while the H4A employs Alnico V magnets for a warmer, more vintage character with dual resonant peaks. Choose the H4 for modern clarity and straightforward blues-rock work; choose the H4A if you prefer classic humbucker warmth and don't mind the covered housing aesthetic.
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EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Uncovered design offers cleaner visual appeal and easier maintenance
- ✓ Ceramic magnets deliver smooth, balanced midrange without excessive coloration
- ✓ Single resonant peak (1.72 kHz) provides straightforward, predictable tone shaping
Why choose EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Alnico V magnets produce warmer, more vintage humbucker character
- ✓ Dual resonant peaks (1.60 kHz and 2.87 kHz) create articulate, complex midrange presence
- ✓ Covered housing adds traditional aesthetic and slightly reduces interference
- ✓ Solderless Quik-Connect installation is faster and more user-friendly
Frequently asked questions
What is the tonal difference between ceramic and Alnico V magnets?
Ceramic magnets (H4) deliver smoother, more neutral tone with balanced output, while Alnico V magnets (H4A) produce warmer, more colored vintage character. The H4A's dual resonant peaks add more midrange articulation compared to the H4's single peak.
Are these pickups suitable for beginners?
The H4A is rated for beginner skill level and up, making it accessible to newer players. The H4 is rated for intermediate and above, suggesting it may be better suited to players with some experience matching pickups to their tone.
What's the difference in inductance and how does it affect tone?
The H4A has slightly higher inductance (8.00 H vs. 13.65 kOhm for the H4), which contributes to its warmer, more rounded response. Both have identical DC resistance (13.65 kOhm), so the inductance difference is the primary electrical distinguisher.
Do both pickups require soldering for installation?
The H4A features solderless Quik-Connect technology, eliminating the need for soldering. The H4 includes a 5-wire Quik-Connect cable but may require soldering depending on your guitar's existing wiring configuration.