EMG3706 vs EMG3721 — Compare
EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold vs EMG H1-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
The EMG 60A is an active pickup with low noise and balanced tone suited for studio and progressive work, while the H1-B is a passive, high-output design built for aggressive rock and metal lead playing. Choose the 60A for versatility and clean signal integrity; choose the H1-B for thick, punchy tone without battery maintenance.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold | EMG H1-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 60A Active Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Active electronics deliver -89 dBV noise floor for studio-quality recordings
- ✓ Lower resonant frequency (2.95 kHz) yields smooth, articulate highs and controlled dynamics
- ✓ 1.0V RMS output with 3.0V peak provides sufficient headroom for clean and driven tones
- ✓ 3,000-hour battery life rating minimizes maintenance during tours or long sessions
Why choose EMG H1-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
- ✓ Passive design eliminates battery requirement and associated maintenance
- ✓ 13.65 kOhm DC resistance and ceramic magnets produce thick, aggressive output ideal for metal
- ✓ 1.65 kHz loaded resonant frequency emphasizes midrange punch and sustain for lead work
- ✓ 5-wire cable enables series/parallel switching and coil tap for tonal flexibility
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup needs a battery?
The EMG 60A is active and requires a 9V battery rated for 3,000 hours of operation. The H1-B is fully passive and requires no battery or external power.
Which has higher output?
The H1-B delivers higher raw output through ceramic magnets and overwound coils (13.65 kOhm DC resistance), while the 60A provides 1.0V RMS for controlled, articulate response.
Are these pickups suitable for jazz or blues?
Neither pickup is ideal for jazz or blues according to their designed applications; both are engineered for rock, metal, and hard rock genres that benefit from their midrange presence and articulate character.
Can I use either pickup for lead work?
The H1-B is specifically optimized for lead work with its 1.65 kHz resonant frequency emphasizing punch and sustain. The 60A works for progressive lead work but favors balanced articulation over aggressive output.