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Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Gold Pickup vs Seymour Duncan STC-2A 2-Band Tone Circuit For Active Pickups
The SH-1n '59 is a passive humbucker pickup for neck position, while the STC-2A is an active preamp circuit board designed to process active pickups through EQ controls. Choose the SH-1n if you need a warm, vintage-voiced pickup; choose the STC-2A if you already have active pickups and want transparent tone shaping with high headroom.
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Seymour Duncan STC-2A 2-Band Tone Circuit For Active Pickups
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Gold Pickup | Seymour Duncan STC-2A 2-Band Tone Circuit For Active Pickups | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | — | Any Position |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Gold Pickup
- ✓ Warm, articulate tone with harmonic richness ideal for blues, rock, and jazz
- ✓ Alnico 5 magnets deliver natural compression and note separation
- ✓ Vacuum wax potted for microphonic feedback elimination and proven reliability
- ✓ No batteries required—passive design ready to install
Why choose Seymour Duncan STC-2A 2-Band Tone Circuit For Active Pickups
- ✓ High-headroom, low-noise active EQ preserves dynamic range and clarity
- ✓ 2-band bass and treble controls plus master volume and blend for versatile shaping
- ✓ Proprietary Slap Switch contour for quick alternative voicing optimized for percussive techniques
- ✓ Works seamlessly with active pickup systems in extended range and drop-tuning applications
Frequently asked questions
Can I use both products together?
No. The SH-1n '59 is a passive humbucker pickup; the STC-2A is designed to amplify and shape signals from active pickups. They serve different system architectures and cannot function as a pair.
Which is better for metal or high-gain styles?
Neither is ideal for metal or djent. The SH-1n is explicitly not recommended for metal due to its warm, moderate-output character. The STC-2A is a tone-shaping preamp for active pickups but does not change the core pickup choice; metal players typically pair active systems with high-output pickups designed for that genre.
What skill level do these require?
Both are designed for intermediate to professional players. The SH-1n requires basic soldering and pickup installation knowledge. The STC-2A requires wiring a prewired harness into control cavity and battery compartment—intermediate soldering and electronics familiarity recommended.
Does the STC-2A work with passive pickups?
No. The STC-2A is engineered specifically for active pickup systems and requires the higher signal level and impedance characteristics of active pickups to operate properly. It will not function correctly with passive pickups.