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Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set vs Seymour Duncan Pickguard Assy, CA 50s Set, White Pickup
The Retro Antiquity II is a pickup set only with enhanced bridge output (9.80k) for assertive midrange, while the CA 50s is a complete ready-to-install pickguard assembly with balanced 6.5k across all three pickups. Choose Antiquity II if you want to upgrade existing pickups and prefer punchy mids; choose CA 50s if you need a turnkey drop-in solution with period-correct symmetry.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set
Seymour Duncan Pickguard Assy, CA 50s Set, White Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set | Seymour Duncan Pickguard Assy, CA 50s Set, White Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $327.00 | $325.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set
- ✓ Higher bridge resistance (9.80k) adds midrange punch and presence
- ✓ Pickups only—lets you reuse existing wiring and controls
- ✓ Degaussed Alnico 5 bridge magnet for enhanced articulation
- ✓ Authentic vintage lacquered and wax potting
Why choose Seymour Duncan Pickguard Assy, CA 50s Set, White Pickup
- ✓ Complete pickguard assembly—fully wired and ready to install
- ✓ Balanced 6.5k DCR across all three pickups for even response
- ✓ Includes potentiometers, wiring, and white pickguard
- ✓ 10 kHz resonance peak ensures classic bell-like clarity
Frequently asked questions
Which one is easier to install?
The CA 50s pickguard assembly is faster—it arrives fully wired and potted, requiring only mounting to the body. The Retro Antiquity II pickups alone require soldering into your existing wiring harness.
What's the tonal difference between them?
Both deliver vintage single-coil character, but the Antiquity II's hotter bridge (9.80k vs 6.5k) adds more midrange presence and punch. The CA 50s maintains balanced response across all three pickups for a more even, symmetrical vintage tone.
Can I use the Antiquity II pickups in my existing wired pickguard?
Yes—the Antiquity II are standard single-coil pickups with 2-conductor leads that work with any vintage-style Strat wiring. The CA 50s is a complete pre-assembled and pre-wired unit, so you'd be replacing your entire electronics.
Which is better for blues and classic rock?
Both excel at blues and classic rock. The Antiquity II suits players who want assertive midrange for lead work, while the CA 50s appeals to those seeking balanced, articulate tone across all positions.