11101-01-Z vs 11101-05-B — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Zebra Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup
The SH-1n '59 is a neck-position pickup with 7.6K resistance and 4-conductor wiring for tonal flexibility, while the SH-1b '59 is a bridge-position humbucker with 8.1K resistance and 2-conductor wiring for focused lead and rhythm work. Choose the SH-1n for versatile neck applications across multiple genres; choose the SH-1b if you need a dedicated bridge pickup for classic rock and blues.
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Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Zebra Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Neck-position optimized with articulate midrange and naturally open character
- ✓ 4-conductor wiring enables coil-tap and hum-cancellation circuit options
- ✓ 7.6K resistance balances clarity and dynamic response over high-gain output
- ✓ Zebra bobbins provide visual distinction
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup
- ✓ Bridge-position design with 8.1K resistance suited for lead and aggressive rhythm work
- ✓ Hand-built on classic Leesona 102 winding machine—proven track record
- ✓ Vintage single-conductor braided lead wire and black bobbin complete classic aesthetic
- ✓ Vacuum wax potting ensures rock-solid reliability on stage
Frequently asked questions
What is the key difference between these two pickups?
The SH-1n is designed for neck position with 7.6K resistance and 4-conductor wiring for tonal versatility; the SH-1b is a bridge-position pickup with 8.1K resistance and 2-conductor wiring for focused, aggressive voicing. They are complementary models, not direct alternatives.
Can I use either of these in a single-humbucker guitar or swap positions?
Each is optimized for its intended position. The SH-1n's lower resistance and open character suit neck placement; the SH-1b's higher resistance and defined attack suit bridge placement. Using them out of position will not deliver their designed tonal character.
Which is better for jazz and cleaner tones?
The SH-1n '59 Zebra excels in jazz applications thanks to its naturally open, articulate midrange and responsive dynamic character that captures finger vibrato nuance. The SH-1b is voiced more toward rock and lead work.
Do both have the same construction quality?
Both feature Alnico V magnets, 42AWG plain enamel wire, long-legged nickel-silver bottom plates, and wax potting for reliability. The SH-1b emphasizes USA hand-built heritage on the Leesona 102 machine; both are road-tested designs.