EMG20 vs EMG2064 — Compare
EMG 58 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG H4 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black
The EMG 58 is an active, high-output pickup built for metal and hard rock aggression; the EMG H4 is a passive, moderate-output pickup suited to blues, rock, and studio versatility. Choose the 58 if you play heavy styles and want maximum clarity and punch; choose the H4 if you prefer traditional humbucker character and don't want to manage batteries.
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Specs side by side
| EMG 58 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG H4 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.00 | $109.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 58 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ High-output active design with tight bass and articulate highs for heavy music
- ✓ Built-in preamp ensures low noise and extended battery life
- ✓ Solderless installation system reduces assembly complexity
- ✓ Excellent string definition across bridge, middle, and neck positions
Why choose EMG H4 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Passive design requires no batteries and needs no preamp power
- ✓ Balanced midrange with natural compression when driven—great for blues and studio work
- ✓ Compact dimensions fit standard routes without modifications
- ✓ 5-wire Quik-Connect cable enables fast, tool-free swaps
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to replace batteries with the H4?
No. The H4 is passive, so it draws no power and requires no battery. The 58 is active and requires batteries, which the manufacturer says have extended life due to low power consumption.
Which pickup is easier to install?
The H4 uses a 5-wire Quik-Connect cable for fast installation and tool-free swaps. The 58 includes a solderless installation system that also reduces errors, but active electronics require more wiring setup overall.
Can I use both pickups across bridge, middle, and neck positions?
The 58 is engineered specifically for all three positions and ships with that versatility in mind. The H4 description focuses on standard humbucker routes but does not explicitly confirm multi-position use.
Which sounds better for blues?
The H4 is explicitly designed for blues, with balanced midrange and natural compression when driven. The 58 is voiced for hard rock and metal aggression, making it less ideal for traditional blues tone.