EMG2004 vs EMG2093 — Compare
EMG S2 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black vs EMG S4 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black
The S2 is a stacked-coil design optimized for bright, articulate highs and transparent single-coil character, while the S4 uses a rail design with ceramic magnets for balanced, consistent output across all pickup positions. Choose the S2 if you want classic vintage clarity for rock, country, and surf; pick the S4 if you need versatility and even response in neck, middle, and bridge positions.
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Specs side by side
| EMG S2 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black | EMG S4 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG S2 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Brighter, more articulate high-end response ideal for classic rock and surf
- ✓ Higher resonant frequency (4.4 kHz) emphasizes clarity and definition
- ✓ Stacked coil construction delivers authentic single-coil transparency
Why choose EMG S4 Passive Single Coil Pickup in Black
- ✓ Rail design provides balanced output across neck, middle, and bridge positions
- ✓ Ceramic magnets offer consistent, predictable tone in any slot
- ✓ Fully included mounting hardware and cables simplify retrofit installation
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup works best in the middle position of a Strat-style guitar?
The S4 is specifically designed to work consistently in neck, middle, and bridge positions, making it the better choice for middle-position clarity. The S2 is optimized more for vintage single-coil character and works well but may favor specific positions.
Are both pickups truly passive with no batteries required?
Yes, both the S2 and S4 are passive designs with no active electronics or batteries needed. They rely on ceramic or stacked-magnet construction and work directly with your guitar's wiring and amplifier.
What is the main tonal difference between stacked-coil and rail designs?
The S2's stacked-coil design emphasizes transparent, articulate highs with a brighter character (4.4 kHz resonance). The S4's rail design with adjacent coils delivers a more balanced, even response across the frequency spectrum, prioritizing consistency over sparkle.
Do both pickups come with everything needed for installation?
The S4 includes mounting screws, springs, pickup cable, and connector cables for complete installation. The S2 specs are less detailed on included hardware, so verify separately if a retrofit requires additional mounting components.