EMG4928 vs EMG4961 — Compare
EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG H1A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
The H1-N uses a ceramic magnet for brighter modern clarity and enhanced output, while the H1A-N employs Alnico V for warmer, vintage-friendly articulation with slightly higher inductance. Choose the H1-N for metal, hard rock, and cutting modern tones; pick the H1A-N for blues, jazz, and studio work where midrange warmth and dynamic response matter most.
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EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
EMG H1A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
Specs side by side
| EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | EMG H1A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H1-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Ceramic magnet delivers modern clarity and definition
- ✓ Lower inductance (7.15 H) for tighter, more focused response
- ✓ Optimized for heavy genres and high-output applications
- ✓ Series/parallel switching via 5-wire cable for tonal flexibility
Why choose EMG H1A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Gold
- ✓ Alnico V magnet produces warm, vintage-friendly character
- ✓ Higher inductance (7.80 H) for fuller, more resonant tone
- ✓ Midrange focus cuts through cleanly in studio and live settings
- ✓ No-solder 5-wire quick-connect simplifies installation
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between ceramic and Alnico V in these pickups?
The H1-N's ceramic magnet produces brighter, more modern articulation with enhanced clarity. The H1A-N's Alnico V magnet delivers warmer, more vintage-friendly tone with smoother midrange presence and greater dynamic sensitivity.
Which pickup has more output?
Both have identical DC resistance at 13.65 kOhm, but the H1A-N's higher inductance (7.80 H vs. 7.15 H) produces slightly more resonant output. The H1-N's ceramic construction and over-wound coils emphasize clarity over raw volume.
Can either pickup be wired for series/parallel switching?
The H1-N includes a 5-wire cable with series/parallel switching capability built in, allowing tonal variation between thicker (series, 1.65 kHz) and brighter (parallel, 3.12 kHz) modes. The H1A-N is a standard passive design without switching options mentioned.
Are both beginner-friendly to install?
Yes—both are passive designs requiring no external power or active electronics. The H1A-N emphasizes its no-solder 5-wire quick-connect; the H1-N requires standard soldering but offers more wiring flexibility.