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EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG 57 is an active humbucker optimized for high-gain, metal, and progressive styles with tight articulation and minimal noise, while the EMG H3 is a passive humbucker designed for classic rock, blues, and balanced tones with naturally scooped mids and vintage warmth. Choose the 57 if you need aggressive clarity and noise-free high-gain performance; choose the H3 if you want dynamic responsiveness and tonal versatility across rock and blues.
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EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 57 Long Shaft Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Active circuit with 27V supply delivers tight, responsive performance ideal for metal and djent
- ✓ 3.00V string output and 4.50V strum output with minimal noise floor for high-gain applications
- ✓ Alnico 5 magnets with 2.11 kHz resonant frequency emphasize articulate vocal mids and punchy pick attack
- ✓ Solderless installation and ~1500 hours battery life per 9V battery
Why choose EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Passive design requires no batteries and offers responsive dynamics to playing touch
- ✓ Dual resonant frequencies (1725 Hz and 3000 Hz) create naturally scooped mids suited to classic rock and blues lead work
- ✓ Ceramic magnets with over-wound coils deliver balanced articulation with vintage warmth and modern clarity
- ✓ Complete installation kit included with 500k pots, cables, and all wiring components
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for metal and extreme high-gain?
The EMG 57 is designed specifically for metal, hard rock, and progressive styles. Its active circuit, tight definition, and minimal noise floor make it ideal for palm muting and extreme high-gain. The H3 is not recommended for extreme metal or djent.
Can I use the H3 for blues and classic rock?
Yes. The EMG H3 is explicitly recommended for classic rock, hard rock, and blues. Its naturally scooped midrange and responsive dynamics make it well-suited to blues lead work and full-bodied rhythm tones. The 57 is not ideal for blues or jazz.
What's the main difference in how these pickups sound?
The EMG 57 emphasizes articulate, punchy mids with controlled output and minimal noise via its active Alnico 5 design. The H3 delivers a balanced, naturally scooped midrange with vintage warmth and modern clarity via passive ceramic magnets, making it more responsive to playing dynamics.
Do I need to replace batteries with the H3?
No. The H3 is a passive pickup that requires no batteries or power supply. The EMG 57 is active and runs on a 9V battery with approximately 1500 hours of battery life per battery.