EMG4381 vs EMG4449 — Compare
EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold vs EMG H2A-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
The H4A is a full-range passive humbucker with higher output and warmer vintage character, while the H2A-B is a bridge-position-specific pickup with lower output and brighter articulation. Choose the H4A for neck or middle positions seeking classic warmth, and the H2A-B specifically for bridge placement when you need clarity and cut.
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EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | EMG H2A-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H4A Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Higher inductance (8.00H vs 4.90H) delivers warmer, fuller tone
- ✓ Lower resonant frequencies (1.60 kHz, 2.87 kHz) emphasize vintage character
- ✓ More versatile—works in multiple positions, not bridge-only
- ✓ Solderless Quik-Connect installation simplifies setup
Why choose EMG H2A-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Bridge-position design optimized for clarity and definition
- ✓ Higher resonant frequencies (2.12 kHz, 3.82 kHz) cut through band mix
- ✓ Lower DC resistance (8.40 kOhm) offers mid-output balance for driven tones
- ✓ Designed for Tune-o-matic bridge compatibility with included hardware
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the H2A-B in positions other than the bridge?
The H2A-B is engineered specifically for bridge-position mounting on Tune-o-matic bridges. While physically installable elsewhere, its tonal character and pole piece spacing are optimized for bridge use, making it unsuitable for neck or middle positions.
Which pickup has more output and sustain?
The H4A has significantly higher inductance (8.00H vs 4.90H) and higher DC resistance (13.65 kOhm vs 8.40 kOhm), delivering greater output and sustain. The H2A-B sits in the mid-output range and favors articulation over raw gain.
Are these pickups suitable for metal or djent?
Both pickups are rated as not ideal for metal or djent genres. Their passive, vintage-leaning designs and balanced output characteristics favor blues, rock, and jazz over the high-gain, modern articulation required in metal contexts.
What's the practical tonal difference?
The H4A emphasizes lower-mid warmth and vintage character with dual peaks at 1.60 kHz and 2.87 kHz. The H2A-B prioritizes midrange clarity and presence with higher peaks at 2.12 kHz and 3.82 kHz, making it cut more prominently in a mix.