EMG6288 vs EMG6289 — Compare
EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold vs EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The H4A uses Alnico V magnets and vintage winding for a smoother, more refined tone with lower resonant frequency, while the H4 uses ceramic magnets and over-wound coils for a more direct, mid-output classic humbucker character. The H4A suits players prioritizing vintage warmth and articulation; the H4 is better for those wanting straightforward classic humbucker punch without overthinking tone.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold | EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver warmer, more articulate vintage tone
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (1.6–2.87 kHz) yields smoother midrange and controlled highs
- ✓ Gold finish adds aesthetic appeal
- ✓ Explicit suitability for jazz and studio sessions
Why choose EMG H4 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Over-wound ceramic construction offers more direct, punchy classic character
- ✓ Mid-output balance gives you headroom without sacrificing clarity
- ✓ 4-wire plus shield wiring offers more flexible configuration options
- ✓ Brushed chrome finish and broader skill-level range (beginner-friendly)
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between these two pickups?
The H4A's Alnico V magnets and vintage winding produce a warmer, more articulate tone with natural compression and smoother midrange, while the H4's over-wound ceramic construction delivers a more direct, punchy classic humbucker character with greater headroom. Both have identical 13.65 kΩ DC resistance but different resonant frequency behavior.
Are both pickups suitable for beginners?
The H4 is explicitly listed for beginner through professional skill levels, making it more accessible to newcomers. The H4A is listed as intermediate, advanced, and professional, suggesting it targets more experienced ears seeking refined vintage tone.
What are the wiring differences?
The H4A uses a 5-wire Quik-Connect solderless system, while the H4 offers 4-wire plus shield connectivity with solderless quick-connect terminals. Both eliminate soldering, but the H4's 4-wire design allows more flexible wiring configurations for different signal chains.
Which pickup is better for hard rock or heavier styles?
Neither is ideal for metal or djent (both pickups exclude these genres), but the H4 is explicitly suitable for hard rock and offers more headroom, making it the safer choice if you play at higher gain. The H4A is explicitly not ideal for metal.