11101-05-W4c vs 11102-13-NH — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-4 JB Nighthawk Pickup
The SH-1b '59 is a vintage-voiced, mid-output pickup for classic rock and blues; the SH-4 JB is a high-output, aggressive pickup built for metal and fusion. Choose the '59 for warm, articulate vintage tones; choose the JB for tight, punchy modern aggression.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-4 JB Nighthawk Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup
- ✓ Vintage-focused tone with articulate highs and warm midrange
- ✓ Lower output (8.13k) stays clear without sacrificing cut through a mix
- ✓ Excellent for dynamic phrasing and nuanced pick attack in blues and classic rock
- ✓ White cover aesthetic matches classic instrument styling
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-4 JB Nighthawk Pickup
- ✓ High output (16.4–16.6k) delivers powerful, focused tone for heavy genres
- ✓ Tight low end and punchy midrange cut through dense mixes without mud
- ✓ Hand-built in Santa Barbara with premium Alnico 5 bar magnet construction
- ✓ Superior performance under overdriven and distorted applications
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has more output?
The SH-4 JB Nighthawk has significantly more output at 16.4–16.6k ohms DC resistance, compared to the SH-1b '59 at 8.13k ohms. The higher output makes the JB better suited for distortion and high-gain scenarios, while the '59 remains clearer and more articulate at lower volumes.
Can I use coil-split configurations with both?
Yes, both pickups include 4-conductor wiring that supports series, parallel, and coil-split configurations. This allows flexible tonal shaping on either pickup without soldering modifications.
Which is better for lead playing versus rhythm?
The SH-1b '59 excels at both due to its responsive dynamics and harmonic complexity, rewarding nuanced phrasing for leads and providing definition for rhythm. The SH-4 JB prioritizes clarity and punch for leads in heavy genres, with less emphasis on vintage warmth.
Do both have feedback elimination?
Yes, both use vacuum-wax potting to eliminate microphonic feedback and ensure stable performance under stage conditions and high-gain applications.