EMG3730 vs EMG3731 — Compare

EMG F-H1 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome vs EMG F-H1A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

The F-H1 is a ceramic-magnet powerhouse optimized for aggressive hard rock and metal with maximum output and tight lows, while the F-H1A uses Alnico magnets for a warmer, more articulate tone suited to hard rock, progressive music, and studio versatility. Choose the F-H1 if you prioritize raw aggression and punch; choose the F-H1A if you want harmonic clarity and tonal flexibility.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG F-H1 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$129.00
View EMG F-H1 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

EMG F-H1A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

$129.00
View EMG F-H1A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

Specs side by side

EMG F-H1 Passive Humbucker Pickup in ChromeEMG F-H1A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome
Price$129.00$129.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG F-H1 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ Ceramic magnets deliver punchy midrange and tight bass—ideal for drop tunings and heavy riffing
  • ✓ Higher output for hard rock and metal applications
  • ✓ Aggressive character without active electronics or battery dependency
  • ✓ Budget-friendly option for players prioritizing raw power

Why choose EMG F-H1A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

  • ✓ Alnico magnets provide warm, refined tone with superior harmonic definition
  • ✓ Adjustable pole pieces allow fine-tuning of magnetic pull and string balance
  • ✓ 5-wire cable supports series/parallel switching and coil-splitting for greater tonal range
  • ✓ Better suited to clean and moderately saturated tones; more versatile across genres
Bottom line: Pick the F-H1 if you play extreme metal, drop tunings, or need maximum aggression and output. Pick the F-H1A if you play hard rock or progressive music and want clarity, warmth, and switching options for studio and live versatility.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup is better for extreme metal and djent?

The F-H1 is explicitly designed for hard rock and metal with its ceramic magnet punch and tight bass response. The F-H1A is not recommended for extreme metal or djent, as its warmer Alnico character and articulation prioritize harmonic clarity over raw aggression.

Can I split coils or switch modes with either pickup?

The F-H1A's 5-wire cable supports series/parallel switching and coil-splitting for tonal flexibility. The F-H1 uses a standard 5-wire Quik-Connect output optimized for straightforward installation but does not emphasize switching capabilities in its design.

What's the main tone difference between ceramic and Alnico magnets in these pickups?

The F-H1's ceramic design emphasizes punchy midrange, tight lows, and aggressive character. The F-H1A's Alnico magnets deliver warm, responsive output with extended harmonic definition and greater clarity across the frequency spectrum.

Do both pickups work with Floyd Rose bridges?

Yes. Both the F-H1 and F-H1A feature Floyd Rose pole spacing at 0.410 inches (10.41mm) string-to-string, ensuring proper magnetic alignment in floating bridge systems.

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