EMG JH “HET” James Hetfield active humbucker set

General

When Metallica started using active pickups by EMG back in late '80s, the brand really took off. Soon, the combination of an EMG81 at the bridge and an EMG85 at the neck became the standard for metal guitarists. Now, more than 20 years later, you can get your hands on this set of EMG JH active humbucker pickups that were designed according to James Hetfield's own requirements. As such, they have a classic look and the bright, warm sound of a passive pickup with all the advantages of an active model.

Best of both worlds

One of the biggest differences between these pickups and classic EMGs are the magnetic rods used. Not only do they give the JH pickups the appearance of passive models, they also affect the sound. Both humbuckers have six individual magnetic rods for a clean sound that is lively too. The pickup at the bridge uses steel magnets, while the pickup at the neck uses alnico magnets for fuller-sounding lows and more output. Naturally, the JH humbuckers are just as good with high gain as the standard pickups by EMG. Where they differ, however, is in their ability to remain intact when you're playing with just a light crunch or clean setting.

Installing your EMG pickups

The pickups come with everything you need to install them, including potentiometers for tone and volume that are suitable for active pickups. These 25k potentiometers are ready-made for EMG's Quik Connect system which means that no soldering is required. For active pickups a stereo output jack is required. That's included too, and again no soldering is required. The position switch is the only part that will require soldering. For detailed instructions on how to install these pickups, click here.

Tips or comments about this product

• The EMG Quik Connect system is not compatible with solderless systems by other manufacturers. Unfortunately, each manufacturer has their own solderless system for their active pickups.
• If your guitar has an output jack with a long shaft, you'll need to replace it with a separately available stereo model.
• Short Shaft potentiometers are included with the JH signature pickup set. If your guitar has a thick and/or an arched top, you may need to use Long Shaft potentiometers.
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