11101-05-W4c vs 11301-06-Bc — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SP90-1b Vintage P90 Soapbar Black Pickup
The SH-1b '59 is a humbucker with articulate highs and controlled lows suited for classic rock and lead playing, while the SP90-1b is a single-coil soapbar with warm midrange bloom and natural compression ideal for blues, jazz, and indie. Choose the humbucker for cutting definition and versatile coil-splitting options; choose the P90 for organic warmth and vintage woody character.
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Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup
Seymour Duncan SP90-1b Vintage P90 Soapbar Black Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup | Seymour Duncan SP90-1b Vintage P90 Soapbar Black 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
- ✓ 4-conductor wiring enables coil-splitting and series/parallel configurations for tonal flexibility
- ✓ Articulate highs and controlled lows cut through mixes for lead lines and rhythm work
- ✓ Vacuum wax potted with long-legged plate for squeal-free performance under high gain
- ✓ 8.13 kΩ output sits in responsive mid-range sweet spot
Why choose Seymour Duncan SP90-1b Vintage P90 Soapbar Black Pickup
- ✓ Dual Alnico V bar magnets deliver responsive, harmonically rich P90 character
- ✓ 3.8 kHz resonant peak emphasizes vocal midrange bloom and natural compression
- ✓ Warm, woody tone without harshness—authentic soapbar voice without noise floor
- ✓ Plain enamel winding and wax potting provide traditional P90 feel at lower price tier
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has more output and which cuts through a band mix better?
The SH-1b '59 has higher output at 8.13 kΩ and emphasizes articulate treble (resonant peak at 6 kHz), making it better suited for cutting through mixes with defined highs. The SP90-1b at 9.7 kΩ prioritizes midrange bloom (3.8 kHz peak), favoring warmth over high-end sparkle.
Can I split coils or change the wiring on the P90 like the humbucker?
The SH-1b '59 offers 4-conductor wiring specifically designed for coil-splitting and parallel/series configurations. The SP90-1b is a single-coil soapbar design without the ability to split coils, keeping its tonal options more straightforward.
Which one is better for a beginner, and which requires more experience to dial in?
The SP90-1b suits beginners through professionals with its straightforward, forgiving warm tone. The SH-1b '59 is rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional players, though both are wax potted for stable performance at any level.
How different are the EQ profiles, and which has more treble?
The SH-1b '59 EQ is 6/3/8 (Bass/Mid/Treble) with emphasis on bright, articulate highs. The SP90-1b is 5/5/7, balancing warmth across all frequencies with slight treble extension but less top-end sparkle overall.