EMG4437 vs EMG4438 — Compare
EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome vs EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Both are EMG 89 active humbuckers with dual-mode switching, but Product A emphasizes high output and technical specs (humbucker mode peaks 1.0 V RMS, -99 dBV noise floor), while Product B highlights medium output and balanced tonal versatility with a brushed finish aesthetic. Choose Product A if you prioritize maximum output and noise rejection for studio precision; choose Product B if you want a slightly more versatile, gigging-friendly tone with refined appearance.
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EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome | EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
- ✓ Higher output in humbucker mode (1.0 V RMS vs. medium output)
- ✓ Lower noise floor in both modes (-99 dBV humbucker, -94 dBV single-coil)
- ✓ Detailed frequency response specs (2.55 kHz humbucker, 3.75 kHz single-coil)
- ✓ Exceptional battery life of approximately 1500 hours
Why choose EMG 89 Active Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Brushed black chrome finish offers refined, professional appearance
- ✓ Explicitly suited for gigging in addition to studio work
- ✓ Surface Mount Technology (SMT) preamps provide balanced aggression and definition
- ✓ Complete installation package includes Quik-Connect cable for easier setup
Frequently asked questions
What is the actual output difference between these two pickups?
Product A specifies 1.0 V RMS in humbucker mode with detailed peak output (1.75 V humbucker, 0.85 V single-coil). Product B lists 'medium output' without exact voltage specs, suggesting a more moderate output level than Product A's high-output design.
Which pickup has the lower noise floor?
Product A explicitly states output noise floors of -99 dBV in humbucker mode and -94 dBV in single-coil mode. Product B does not provide noise floor specifications, making Product A the choice for maximum noise rejection in quiet recording environments.
Are these pickups physically different or just cosmetically?
Both use Alnico V magnets, dual-mode operation, and 78.5 mm screw spacing. Product B specifies exact dimensions (69.9 × 38.1 × 22.9 mm) and mentions Surface Mount Technology preamps, while Product A emphasizes its workhorse durability and road-readiness without detailed dimensional specs.
Which is better for live gigging?
Product B is explicitly listed as suitable for gigging and includes a Quik-Connect cable for faster setup. Product A focuses on studio precision with superior noise specs but does not emphasize gigging compatibility.