EMG5631 vs EMG5668 — Compare
EMG HA Active Single Coil Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG HA is an active single-coil pickup that prioritizes articulation, noise rejection, and modern studio clarity, while the EMG H1-N is a passive humbucker designed for warm, traditional jazz and blues tones. Choose the HA if you play extended-range or high-gain styles and demand studio-grade cleanliness; choose the H1-N if you favor classic warm character and want zero maintenance.
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EMG HA Active Single Coil Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG HA Active Single Coil Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG HA Active Single Coil Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Active noiseless design eliminates hum and electromagnetic interference (-101 dB noise floor)
- ✓ High articulation and string separation ideal for modern studio and extended-range playing
- ✓ Single-coil clarity in a compact humbucker housing bridges vintage response with modern noise rejection
- ✓ Solderless installation and complete wiring kit simplify retrofit work
Why choose EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Passive design requires no batteries or power supply—zero maintenance
- ✓ Warm, naturally compressed tone with well-defined lows suits jazz, blues, and classic rock
- ✓ Over-wound ceramic construction delivers full output and responsive dynamics
- ✓ Straightforward operation and integration into any dual-humbucker setup
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for jazz and blues?
The EMG H1-N is specifically voiced for jazz and blues with its warm tone, natural compression, and well-defined lows at a 1.65 kHz resonant frequency. The EMG HA's bright, articulate character at 4.05 kHz suits modern and extended-range styles but is not ideal for traditional jazz.
Do I need batteries for either pickup?
The EMG HA requires a 9V battery (approximately 600 hours of use) or optional higher voltages up to 27V DC. The EMG H1-N is completely passive and requires no power supply.
Which has lower noise in a live or studio setting?
The EMG HA delivers studio-grade cleanliness with an exceptionally low noise floor of −101 dB at 60 Hz, effectively eliminating electromagnetic interference. The EMG H1-N is passive and has no active circuitry but relies on traditional humbucker hum-canceling design.
What is the key tonal difference?
The EMG HA emphasizes articulate highs, upper-midrange clarity, and string separation, making it bright and defined. The EMG H1-N emphasizes warm lows and smooth highs with natural compression, delivering a classic humbucker voice suited to traditional genres.