EMG2029 vs EMG2031 — Compare
EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG H2A-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black
The H3 is a higher-output, overwound design for aggressive high-gain and drop tuning applications, while the H2A-B is a more refined bridge-position pickup with lower output and dual resonant peaks for clarity and midrange focus. Choose the H3 for drop-tuned metal and full-instrument replacement; pick the H2A-B as a bridge upgrade for players prioritizing articulation and cutting through a mix.
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Specs side by side
| EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black | EMG H2A-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.00 | $109.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Higher output (13.65 kOhm) and overwound coils suit extreme high-gain and drop tunings
- ✓ Works in both neck and bridge positions for complete pickup flexibility
- ✓ Includes full solderless installation kit with pots, jack, and all wiring
- ✓ Tight low end with controlled sustain for modern metal clarity
Why choose EMG H2A-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Black
- ✓ Lower output (8.4 kOhm) and Alnico V magnet deliver natural articulation and refined tone
- ✓ Dual resonant peaks (2,125 Hz and 3,825 Hz) cut through mix without harshness
- ✓ Designed specifically for bridge position, reducing setup complexity
- ✓ Compact design and lighter tonal character suit rock and progressive styles
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup should I choose for drop tunings and extreme metal?
The H3 is designed for this application. Its higher DC resistance (13.65 kOhm), overwound coils, and ceramic magnets deliver the tight low end and high output needed to maintain clarity in drop tunings and high-gain contexts.
Can I use the H2A-B as a full pickup set?
No, the H2A-B is explicitly designed as a bridge-position pickup only. If you need both neck and bridge positions, choose the H3, which works in either position.
What's included with each pickup?
The H3 ships with solderless installation hardware, pots, output jack, cables, and all grounding components—a complete rewiring solution. The H2A-B includes only the pickup itself with the EMG 5-wire quick-connect output, suitable for upgrading an existing installation.
Which pickup has more natural, less aggressive tone?
The H2A-B uses an Alnico V magnet and lower output (8.4 kOhm) for a more refined, articulate character. The H3's ceramic magnets and higher output (13.65 kOhm) deliver modern clarity with aggression, better for high-gain applications.