EMG5675 vs EMG5676 — Compare
EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome vs EMG H3A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
The H3 uses ceramic magnets for balanced, natural breakup across genres, while the H3A uses Alnico V magnets for tighter lows and aggressive midrange punch optimized for metal and hard rock. Choose the H3 for versatile studio and gigging work; choose the H3A if you prioritize percussive articulation and cutting through dense mixes.
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EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
EMG H3A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
Specs side by side
| EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome | EMG H3A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Brand | EMG Pickups | EMG Pickups |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose EMG H3 Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Black Chrome
- ✓ Ceramic magnets deliver natural, musical breakup suitable for clean and driven tones
- ✓ Balanced response across neck and bridge positions without genre limitations
- ✓ Slightly lower inductance (7.4 H) offers cleaner high-end response for articulate playing
Why choose EMG H3A Passive Humbucker Pickup in Brushed Chrome
- ✓ Alnico V magnets provide warm yet aggressive character optimized for metal and hard rock
- ✓ Tight low-end control and focused midrange punch for cutting through dense mixes
- ✓ Series/parallel switching via 5-wire cable grants on-the-fly tonal flexibility
- ✓ Slightly higher inductance (7.67 H) enhances output and presence
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between ceramic and Alnico V magnets in these pickups?
Ceramic magnets in the H3 produce balanced, naturally musical breakup with cleaner highs, while Alnico V in the H3A delivers warmer, more aggressive tone with tighter lows and enhanced presence. The H3A excels at cutting through dense mixes; the H3 works across more tonal palettes.
Can I use either pickup in both neck and bridge positions?
Yes, both pickups are designed as direct replacements with standard humbucker routing. The H3 is explicitly engineered for balanced response in both positions; the H3A's specs support dual-position use as well.
Which pickup is better for jazz or blues?
The H3 is more suitable for jazz and blues because its ceramic magnets and balanced output produce natural, musical breakup without aggressive coloration. The H3A is specifically listed as 'not ideal for Jazz, Blues' due to its tight, aggressive character.
Do both pickups require soldering, or do they use the EMG Solderless Install System?
The H3 includes EMG's Solderless Install System with 5-wire quick-connect output for tool-free installation. The H3A uses standard 5-wire wiring that supports series/parallel switching but does not explicitly mention the solderless system; check your guitar's existing wiring compatibility.