EMG4768 vs EMG4788 — Compare
EMG H Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold vs EMG H3 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The EMG H Active is a noise-free single-coil in humbucker form with active electronics and solderless assembly, while the EMG H3 is a traditional passive humbucker with higher DC resistance and a long shaft for deeper cavities. Choose the H Active for studio recording where hum elimination matters and you want single-coil articulation; choose the H3 if you prefer passive reliability, don't need batteries, and work with recessed guitar cavities.
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EMG H3 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG H Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold | EMG H3 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H Active Single Coil Pickup in Gold
- ✓ Active circuitry eliminates hum and RF interference
- ✓ Single-coil character with humbucker installation ease
- ✓ Complete solderless kit ships with all electronics and pots
- ✓ Ceramic magnets deliver bright, aggressive tone for high-gain clarity
Why choose EMG H3 Long Shaft Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery replacement or maintenance
- ✓ Long shaft accommodates non-standard and recessed cavities
- ✓ Higher DC resistance and dual resonant peaks cut through dense mixes
- ✓ Balanced midrange articulation with minimal coloration
Frequently asked questions
Do either of these pickups require soldering?
The EMG H Active uses a solderless push-together connector system and includes a complete kit with pots and electronics. The EMG H3 has a 5-wire quick-connect output that simplifies wiring and reduces soldering requirements, though some basic wiring may still be needed depending on your guitar configuration.
Will these work in guitars with deep or recessed pickup cavities?
The EMG H3 features a long shaft design specifically for deeper cavities and non-standard mounting depths. The EMG H Active uses a standard humbucker footprint and is best suited for conventional cavity depths.
What's the practical difference in tone between active and passive?
The EMG H Active uses ceramic magnets in a single-coil design with active circuitry for a brighter, more aggressive articulate response, while the EMG H3 is a passive humbucker with higher output and a balanced midrange that cuts through with less coloration. Active electronics ensure consistent output regardless of cable length; passive tone depends on your amp and wiring.
Which requires more maintenance?
The EMG H Active requires periodic 9V battery replacement (typically lasting months to a year depending on use), while the EMG H3 passive design needs no batteries and has no electronic maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.