What position should I install the H1-B in?

The H1-B is engineered as a bridge-position pickup with a standard Tune-o-matic pole spread of 0.388 inches (9.85mm), making it compatible with most modern guitars that use this bridge type.

Does this pickup require a battery or power source?

No. The H1-B is a passive design, so it requires no battery or external power source—just plug it in and play.

Can I use this pickup with coil-tap or series/parallel switching?

Yes. The H1-B ships with a 5-wire cable that supports both series/parallel switching and coil-tap configurations, letting you dial in extra tonal flexibility without rewiring.

What genres and playing styles is the H1-B best for?

The H1-B is optimized for rock, metal, hard rock, and lead work, where its high output, punchy aggression, and midrange presence cut through band mixes. It is not voiced for jazz, blues, or folk styles.

How does the H1-B compare to other high-output humbuckers?

The H1-B sits in the same class as the Seymour Duncan JB and DiMarzio Super Distortion, delivering thick, articulate tone with substantial output. It shares the overwind, high-output character of the EMG 81/85 but in passive form, eliminating the need for active electronics.

Do I pay sales tax on this order?

Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.

EMG H1-B Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

The EMG H1-B is a high-output passive humbucker built for players who want thick, articulate tone from straightforward passive electronics—no batteries, no complications. Its ceramic magnet construction and over wound coils deliver punchy, aggressive output that cuts through dense band mixes while keeping individual notes clear and defined. This bridge-position pickup is trusted by rock, metal, and hard rock players who need serious output from a proven passive design.

Tone & Output Characteristics

With a DC resistance of 13.65 kOhm and inductance of 7.15 Henries, the H1-B generates higher output than many vintage-style humbuckers without sacrificing note definition. The resonant frequency of 1.65 KHz in loaded condition emphasizes midrange presence and sustain, delivering the lead clarity and chunky rhythm punch that holds its own in a live mix.

Design & Compatibility

Engineered with a standard pole spread of 0.388" (9.85mm) for Tune-o-matic bridge compatibility, the H1-B drops into most modern guitars without hassle. The included 5-wire cable opens up series/parallel switching and coil tap options, letting you reshape the tone without pulling the guitar apart. The chrome finish is road-ready and visually solid.

Key Features

Over wound coils and ceramic magnets
DC Resistance: 13.65 kOhm
Inductance: 7.15 Henries (wired in series)
Resonant Frequency: 1.65 KHz (loaded condition)
Resonant Frequency: 3.12 KHz (1 MegOhm/47pf condition)
Impedance at Resonance: 74.00 kOhm (loaded condition)
Pole Spread: 0.388" (9.85mm) standard for Tune-o-matic bridges
5-Wire cable for Series/Parallel switching and coil combinations
Higher output power (13.6 kOhm class)
Passive design—no power source required
Chrome finish

The H1-B delivers muscular, focused tone with the reliability and simplicity of passive electronics, making it a proven choice for players who value responsive feel and trouble-free installation.

Best suited for	Rock, Metal, Hard Rock, Lead Work
Tonal character	High output, thick, articulate, punchy, aggressive
Less specialized for	Jazz, Blues, Folk (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily)
Skill level	Intermediate / Advanced / Professional