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Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Gold Cover vs Seymour Duncan TB-12 Trembucker Screamin' Demon Pickup Nickel Cover
The SH-55N is a warm, vintage-voiced neck pickup suited to blues, jazz, and studio work, while the TB-12 is an aggressive bridge pickup designed for metal and hard rock lead tones. Choose the SH-55N for classic, articulate playing across multiple genres; choose the TB-12 if you need punchy, treble-forward aggression for high-gain styles.
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Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Gold Cover
Seymour Duncan TB-12 Trembucker Screamin' Demon Pickup Nickel Cover
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Gold Cover | Seymour Duncan TB-12 Trembucker Screamin' Demon Pickup Nickel Cover | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.00 | $149.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Neck | Bridge |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Gold Cover
- ✓ Warm, vintage PAF-inspired tone with organic compression and harmonic complexity
- ✓ Lower DC resistance (7.2k) and 8.14 kHz resonant peak preserve note clarity and sustain
- ✓ Hand-built construction with Alnico 2 magnet and unwaxed windings for natural harmonic response
- ✓ Ideal for blues, jazz, and studio sessions across neck position
Why choose Seymour Duncan TB-12 Trembucker Screamin' Demon Pickup Nickel Cover
- ✓ Treble-forward presence (EQ 5/4/9) cuts through dense mixes and high-gain contexts
- ✓ Alnico 5 magnet and 10.9k ohm resistance deliver aggressive articulation and pronounced sustain
- ✓ Trembucker spacing and hybrid pole pieces (adjustable + Allen head) allow precise tonal shaping
- ✓ Vacuum wax potting suppresses microphonic feedback; 4-conductor wire enables series/parallel/split wiring
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either of these pickups in the same position?
No. The SH-55N is designed for neck position (7.2k resistance, 8.14 kHz peak). The TB-12 is a Trembucker built for bridge position on tremolo guitars (10.9k resistance, 7 kHz peak). Each is optimized for its intended position.
Which pickup is better for blues and jazz?
The SH-55N is specifically voiced for blues and jazz with its warm, articulate vintage tone, organic compression, and balanced output. The TB-12's aggressive upper-midrange bite and treble presence are not suited to those genres.
What is the main tonal difference between Alnico 2 and Alnico 5 magnets?
Alnico 2 (SH-55N) produces warmer, more compressed tones with natural breakup, while Alnico 5 (TB-12) delivers more aggressive dynamics, treble presence, and sustain. Alnico 5 is louder and more articulate; Alnico 2 is softer and more vintage-sounding.
What does Trembucker spacing mean?
Trembucker spacing refers to pole piece positioning optimized for tremolo-equipped bridges where the bridge saddles are farther apart. The TB-12 uses this spacing; the SH-55N is a standard neck humbucker and does not have Trembucker spacing.