EMG7145 vs EMG7179 — Compare

EMG H2-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold

The H2-N is a ceramic passive humbucker offering balanced clarity and moderate output for versatile studio and lead work, while the H1-B is an Alnico V passive bridge pickup with thicker midrange presence and higher output tailored for rock and metal. Choose the H2-N for articulate, balanced tone across genres; choose the H1-B if you need warmth and punch for heavier styles.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG H2-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$129.00
View EMG H2-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold

$129.00
View EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold

Specs side by side

EMG H2-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in ChromeEMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
Price$129.00$129.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG H2-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ Balanced warmth and clarity suitable for both lead and rhythm playing
  • ✓ Lower output (8.40 kOhm) preserves articulation without excessive compression
  • ✓ Articulate response with natural compression for dynamic players
  • ✓ Long shaft accommodates deep cavities and custom builds

Why choose EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold

  • ✓ Thicker low-mid presence and warm midrange ideal for rock and metal
  • ✓ Higher output (13.65 kOhm) delivers punch and defined note separation
  • ✓ Alnico V magnet with steel poles for classic warmth and character
  • ✓ Solderless quick-connect system simplifies installation
Bottom line: Choose the H2-N for studio sessions, custom builds, and lead work where clarity and versatility matter most. Choose the H1-B for rock and metal gigging where thick midrange presence and controlled upper response deliver the punch and warmth those styles demand.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup is better for drop tunings and extreme metal?

The H1-B suits heavier styles better due to its higher DC resistance (13.65 kOhm) and thicker midrange, whereas the H2-N is explicitly not ideal for drop tunings and extreme metal. The H1-B's Alnico V magnet and over-wound coil provide the warmth and sustain those genres require.

What's the main tonal difference between ceramic and Alnico V magnets in these pickups?

The H2-N's ceramic magnet produces articulate, balanced tone with moderate output and natural compression. The H1-B's Alnico V magnet with steel poles delivers warmer midrange presence and thicker low-mid character, making it more suited to rock and metal.

Are these pickups suitable for beginners?

The H1-B lists beginner as a recommended skill level, while the H2-N starts at intermediate. The H1-B's solderless quick-connect system and straightforward character make it more accessible to newer players.

Will either pickup work in a guitar with a deep pickup cavity?

Both feature long-shaft designs, but the H2-N is specifically noted as accommodating deeper guitar bodies and custom routing. The H1-B uses a standard 0.388-inch pole piece spread for Tune-o-matic bridges on most guitars.

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