EMG4974 vs EMG4985 — Compare
EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The EMG H3 is a passive humbucker with dual resonant peaks suited for aggressive rock and metal, while the EMG 60A is an active design with lower noise and vintage warmth better suited for classic rock and blues. Choose the H3 for modern high-output applications and progressive styles; choose the 60A for traditional tones with built-in noise rejection and easier installation.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery maintenance or replacement
- ✓ Dual resonant frequencies (1725 Hz and 3000 Hz) deliver refined midrange and controlled highs ideal for dense mixes
- ✓ Over-wound ceramic coils provide articulation and clarity without harshness in metal and progressive contexts
- ✓ Higher DC resistance (13.65 kOhm) generates balanced output suitable for demanding playing situations
Why choose EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Active circuitry with exceptionally low noise floor (-89 dBV) ensures quiet operation at any volume
- ✓ Comes fully pre-wired with cable, controls, battery clip, and mounting hardware for streamlined installation
- ✓ Single 2.95 kHz resonant frequency produces focused, punchy tone balancing vintage warmth and modern clarity
- ✓ 3000-hour battery life per cell and minimal power draw (80 microamps) reduce operational costs
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for metal and hard rock?
The EMG H3 is explicitly optimized for metal and hard rock with its dual resonant peaks, over-wound coils, and articulate character that cuts through dense mixes without harshness. The EMG 60A is better suited to classic rock and blues.
Does the 60A require a battery, and how often do I need to replace it?
Yes, the EMG 60A is an active design requiring a 9V battery, but it draws only 80 microamps and delivers approximately 3000 hours of battery life per cell—typically lasting several months with regular playing. The H3 is passive and requires no battery.
Which is easier to install for a beginner?
The EMG 60A comes pre-wired with cable, controls, battery clip, and mounting hardware, making it significantly more beginner-friendly. The H3 requires separate control assembly and wiring.
What is the main tonal difference between these two pickups?
The H3 emphasizes articulation and clarity with dual frequency peaks for cutting through heavy music, while the 60A blends vintage warmth with modern clarity via a single focused resonant peak at 2.95 kHz, better suited to blues and classic rock.