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EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
The H4A is a passive, warm-toned humbucker built for traditional blues, rock, and jazz on standard 6-string guitars, while the 85-8H is an active, high-output pickup designed specifically for 8-string instruments in metal and djent. Choose the H4A if you play conventional guitars and value natural dynamics; choose the 85-8H if you need extended-range clarity and tight gain-friendly response.
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EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Specs side by side
| EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery or external power
- ✓ Warm, articulate tone with natural dynamics ideal for blues and jazz
- ✓ Compatible with standard humbucker-equipped 6-string guitars
Why choose EMG 85-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Purpose-built for 8-string instruments and extended frequencies
- ✓ Active design delivers high output and clean tone at high gain
- ✓ Tight low-end and focused midrange cuts through heavy, dense mixes
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 85-8H on a 6-string guitar?
No; the 85-8H is engineered specifically for 8-string instruments and their extended frequency range. The H4A is the standard-gauge option for 6-string guitars.
Do I need a battery for the H4A?
No. The H4A is fully passive and requires no external power, batteries, or preamps. The 85-8H requires a 9V battery and draws 80 microamps, yielding roughly 3000 hours of use per cell.
Which pickup is better for metal?
The 85-8H is engineered for metal, djent, and drop tunings, with high output (4.50 V peak), tight low-end, and a noise floor of -101 dBV that stays clean at high gain. The H4A is not ideal for metal and has lower output.
What's the tonal difference between them?
The H4A delivers warm, natural lows with presence peaks at 1600 Hz and 2875 Hz, favoring blues and jazz. The 85-8H has a single focused midrange peak at 1.87 kHz and tight low-end, optimized for clarity in heavy genres.