EMG H1A-N Passive Humbucker Pickup in Chrome

The H1A-N is fully passive—no battery or preamp required. It uses alnico magnets and over-wound coils to achieve its output and tone, making it simpler to install and maintain than active electronics.

The H1A-N excels in rock, hard rock, metal, and blues. Its articulate midrange and punchy presence cut through dense mixes, though it is not optimized for jazz or folk playing styles.

The 0.388-inch pole spread is designed for tune-o-matic bridge spacing (standard on many Gibson-style guitars). It includes a 5-wire quick-connect output with integrated shielding that simplifies wiring; adjustable pole pieces allow you to balance magnetic response across all strings after installation.

The H1A-N is passive and uses alnico magnets for a more organic, touch-responsive character, whereas the 81/85 are active with ceramic magnets and a higher noise floor. The H1A-N prioritizes dynamic responsiveness and simplicity over the aggressive output of active designs.

The H1A-N delivers articulate midrange articulation with controlled high-end presence, organic warmth, and punchy character that responds directly to pick attack and finger pressure. Its dual resonant peaks at 1.65 kHz and 3.00 kHz provide clarity without harshness in dense mixes.

We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.