EMG7486 vs EMG7487 — Compare
EMG H1-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome vs EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The H1-N and H1-B are electronically identical (same DC resistance, inductance, and resonant frequency) but positioned differently: the H1-N emphasizes high-output aggression and natural compression for versatile gain applications, while the H1-B is marketed as a bridge-position specialist with tight midrange control and a 5-wire series/parallel switching option. Choose the H1-N for players wanting a flexible, all-position workhorse in metal and hard rock; pick the H1-B if you specifically need bridge-position clarity, switching capability, and a focused midrange punch.
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EMG H1-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG H1-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H1-N Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Marketed for versatility across high-gain and clean tones
- ✓ Naturally compressed tone suits aggressive rhythm playing
- ✓ No switching complexity—straightforward passive wiring
Why choose EMG H1-B Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ 5-wire cable enables series/parallel switching for tonal flexibility
- ✓ Tight, controlled midrange specifically optimized for bridge position
- ✓ Visible pole pieces allow tactile adjustment and visual confirmation
Frequently asked questions
Are these pickups electrically different?
No. Both share identical DC resistance (13.65 kOhm), inductance (7.15 Henries), and resonant frequency (1.65 kHz). The difference lies in positioning, marketing focus, and the H1-B's inclusion of a 5-wire cable for series/parallel switching.
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
Both are suitable. The H1-N is positioned as a general-purpose high-output aggressor, while the H1-B emphasizes bridge-position cut and tight midrange. If you want flexibility across positions or a single versatile voice, choose the H1-N; if you want maximum bridge clarity with switching, choose the H1-B.
Does the H1-B's series/parallel switching provide a significant tonal change?
The 5-wire cable on the H1-B enables switching between series and parallel coil configurations, offering tonal flexibility beyond the H1-N's single passive design. The extent of the change depends on your guitar's wiring implementation.
Which pickup suits jazz or blues?
Neither is ideal for jazz or traditional blues according to their specifications. Both are optimized for metal, hard rock, and high-gain modern styles where tight control, articulation, and treble attack are priorities.