EMG H4A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
Share
- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4490
Description
EMG H4A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG H4A delivers a focused, articulate humbucker voice without requiring external power—a straightforward passive design that integrates seamlessly into any standard guitar wiring. Its dual-resonance character produces clarity in the highs and controlled midrange punch, capturing definition without the noise of single-coils or the coloration of active systems. In the studio, this translates to recordings that sit cleanly in dense mixes while maintaining note-to-note separation across rhythm and lead tracking.
Electrical Characteristics
This pickup operates at 13.65 kOhm DC resistance with an inductance of 8 Henries, establishing a balanced impedance curve across its dual resonant peaks of 1600 Hz and 2875 Hz. The 80.5 kOhm impedance at resonance ensures tight output with minimal frequency bloat, ideal for recording applications demanding note separation and precise tonal control across multiple takes and overdubs.
Construction & Connectivity
Built with Alnico V bar magnets wound in vintage style and fully shielded to eliminate interference, the H4A maintains signal integrity in electrically noisy home-studio environments. The 5-wire Quik-Connect output streamlines installation and allows flexible wiring configurations without soldering, reducing setup time between sessions.
Key Features
- DC Resistance: 13.65 kOhm
- Inductance: 8 Henries
- Resonant Frequency (Primary): 1600 Hz
- Resonant Frequency (Secondary): 2875 Hz
- Impedance at Resonance: 80.5 kOhm
- Alnico V bar magnets with vintage wound coils
- Fully shielded construction
- 5-wire Quik-Connect output
- Mounting screws and springs included
- Pickup cable included
The H4A combines passive reliability with refined tonal character, making it a dependable choice for producers and engineers prioritizing clarity, separation, and straightforward installation across home-studio sessions and multitrack recording projects.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Finish | Black Chrome |
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG H4A is a passive humbucker engineered for studio tracking and mixing work where articulate, separated notes matter—particularly in hard rock, metal, and progressive sessions. Its dual-resonance character (1600 Hz and 2875 Hz peaks) delivers clarity in the highs and controlled midrange punch that sits cleanly in dense mixes without the noise floor of single-coils or the compressed character of active pickups. Fully shielded Alnico V construction ensures signal integrity in electrically noisy studios, and the 5-wire Quik-Connect output speeds up installation and rewiring between sessions.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Studio Sessions, Hard Rock, Metal, Progressive |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Articulate, focused, tight low end, controlled midrange punch, clarity in highs |
| Less specialized for | Blues, Jazz (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a battery or power supply to run this pickup?
No. The H4A is a fully passive design with no active electronics, so it requires no external power or battery. It integrates directly into standard guitar wiring.
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The H4A excels in hard rock, metal, and progressive music where tight definition and note separation are priorities. It is not recommended for blues or jazz, where a warmer, more open tone is typically preferred.
Is soldering required to install the H4A?
No soldering is needed. The pickup features a 5-wire Quik-Connect output that streamlines installation and allows flexible wiring configurations without solder work. Mounting screws, springs, and a pickup cable are included.
How does the H4A compare to active EMG pickups or other passive humbuckers?
Unlike active EMG pickups (such as the 81), the H4A operates entirely passively, avoiding the compressed character and battery dependence of active systems. Compared to the Seymour Duncan 59 and DiMarzio Super Distortion, the H4A offers tighter lows, more controlled midrange punch, and enhanced note separation with a focus on clarity and definition.
What are the key electrical specifications?
The H4A operates at 13.65 kOhm DC resistance with 8 Henries inductance, dual resonant peaks at 1600 Hz and 2875 Hz, and an impedance at resonance of 80.5 kOhm. It is wound on Alnico V bar magnets with vintage-style coils and full shielding to eliminate interference.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
Compare With
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.