EMG6287 vs EMG6288 — Compare
EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold vs EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The H4 excels in rock and metal with punchy articulation and extended high-end response, while the H4A prioritizes blues and classic rock with warm, vintage-focused tone and natural compression. Choose the H4 for aggressive genres requiring clarity and attack; choose the H4A for traditional styles favoring warmth and ease of installation.
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EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold | EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Extended resonant frequency (2.95 kHz under load) delivers brighter, more articulate highs ideal for metal and rock
- ✓ Ceramic magnets and punchy attack character suit aggressive playing styles and pick dynamics
- ✓ Highly responsive across wide output range without excessive compression
- ✓ Complete wiring kit included (500K pots, Buss Board, jack, screws, springs)
Why choose EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Alnico V magnets and vintage-wound coils produce warm, musical tone suited to blues and jazz
- ✓ Natural compression smooths midrange and controls highs for traditional character
- ✓ Solderless 5-wire Quik-Connect system eliminates soldering and speeds installation
- ✓ Slightly higher inductance (8H vs 7.37H) adds body and sustain to classic tones
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup works better for metal and hard rock?
The H4 is the better choice. Its ceramic magnets, extended high-end resonant frequency (2.95 kHz under load), and punchy attack deliver the clarity and harmonic definition metal and hard rock require. The H4A's warmer, compressed character is not ideal for these genres.
Which pickup is easier to install?
The H4A is easier. It features EMG's solderless 5-wire Quik-Connect system that eliminates traditional wiring and soldering. The H4 comes pre-wired with a 5-pin cable and includes all components but requires standard installation techniques.
What's the tonal difference between ceramic and Alnico V magnets?
Ceramic magnets (H4) produce brighter, more articulate tone with extended highs and punchy attack. Alnico V magnets (H4A) deliver warmer, more vintage-focused tone with natural compression and smoothed highs—fundamentally different character suited to different genres.
Are these pickups truly passive with no battery required?
Yes, both the H4 and H4A are completely passive and require no battery or external power. They differ from active EMG pickups, making them reliable for players who prefer traditional passive operation.