11101-01-RNBc-TS vs 11102-86-Nc — Compare

Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, Nickel Cover Pickup

The SH-1n '59 Model is a neck-focused, vintage purist's pickup with lower output (7.6K DCR) and single-conductor wiring, while the SH-16 is a bridge-position hybrid with higher impedance (11.5K) and four-conductor wiring designed for modern clarity. The '59 suits players prioritizing warm articulation and vintage authenticity; the SH-16 appeals to those wanting balanced vintage warmth with punchy, cut-through character.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup

$135.00
View Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup

Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, Nickel Cover Pickup

$135.00
View Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, Nickel Cover Pickup

Specs side by side

Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell PickupSeymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, Nickel Cover Pickup
Price$135.00$135.00
BrandSeymour DuncanSeymour Duncan
SeriesSeymour Duncan '59Seymour Duncan Custom
ConditionNewNew

Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup

  • ✓ Lower DCR (7.6K) preserves articulation and pick dynamics with minimal output compression
  • ✓ Single-conductor wiring and Alnico V magnets deliver classic '59 character with proven tonal pedigree
  • ✓ Raw nickel cover and tortoise shell baseplate offer distinctive vintage aesthetics
  • ✓ Ideal for neck position or players seeking pure, uncolored '59 voice

Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, Nickel Cover Pickup

  • ✓ Bridge-position design with higher impedance (11.5K) and four-conductor wiring for flexibility and tonal control
  • ✓ Mismatched coils add harmonic complexity and responsiveness without sacrificing clarity
  • ✓ EQ curve (6/6/8) emphasizes punchy midrange cut-through in driven contexts while maintaining articulation
  • ✓ Hand-built in Santa Barbara with modern design priorities that complement contemporary playing styles
Bottom line: Choose the SH-1n '59 if you play neck position and prioritize vintage warmth and authentic '59 tone. Choose the SH-16 if you need a bridge pickup and want balanced vintage character with modern clarity and punch.

Frequently asked questions

Which pickup is better for neck vs. bridge position?

The SH-1n '59 Model is optimized for neck position with lower output (7.6K DCR) that maintains clarity when paired with a higher-output bridge pickup. The SH-16 is explicitly designed for bridge position and features higher impedance (11.5K) and four-conductor wiring for bridge-specific performance.

How do their tonal characters differ?

The SH-1n delivers warm, vintage articulation with responsive dynamics and minimal coloration—a true '59 voice. The SH-16 balances vintage warmth with modern clarity, emphasizing a punchy, focused midrange (5.95 KHz peak) that cuts through in driven tones while maintaining presence.

Are these pickups suitable for hard rock and classic rock?

The SH-1n '59 excels in classic rock and blues with its articulate, dynamic response. The SH-16 is specifically listed for classic rock and hard rock, offering greater sustain and cut-through, making it better suited for higher-gain contexts and modern applications.

What construction differences affect tone?

The SH-1n uses Alnico V magnets with single-conductor braided wiring for vintage simplicity. The SH-16 uses Alnico 5 magnets with four-conductor wiring and mismatched coils that add harmonic complexity, plus a nickel silver short leg bottom plate tuned for modern clarity—all contributing to more versatile performance.

✨
🎸

Welcome! Before we chat…

Drop your name and email so we can follow up if you reach us after hours.

We never share your info.

✨
🟢 Specialist connected