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Seymour Duncan SH-3 Staggered Mag Zebra Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Reverse Zebra Pickup
The SH-3 is a medium-output, articulate pickup designed for balanced punch across rock and progressive styles, while the SH-5 is a high-output, aggressive pickup built specifically for metal and extreme gain applications. Choose the SH-3 for versatility across moderate to high gain; choose the SH-5 if you prioritize aggressive response and cutting through dense, heavy mixes.
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Seymour Duncan SH-3 Staggered Mag Zebra Pickup
Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Reverse Zebra Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-3 Staggered Mag Zebra Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Reverse Zebra Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Series | Seymour Duncan Stag Mag | Seymour Duncan Custom |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-3 Staggered Mag Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Medium output (16.6K) works well across different amp types and gain settings
- ✓ Alnico 2 magnets provide warm, responsive dynamics with natural resonance
- ✓ Staggered magnet design balances string response for articulate definition
- ✓ Vacuum wax potting eliminates feedback while preserving clarity
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Reverse Zebra Pickup
- ✓ High output (14.1K) delivers aggressive attack ideal for metal and djent
- ✓ Ceramic magnet provides brightness and snap for cutting through dense mixes
- ✓ Clean noise floor under extreme high-gain amplification
- ✓ Uncovered Reverse Zebra design offers visual distinction
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between these pickups?
The SH-3 emphasizes balanced articulation and clarity with warm Alnico 2 magnets, while the SH-5 prioritizes aggressive attack and brightness with a ceramic magnet designed to cut through heavy distortion and dense production.
Which pickup handles high-gain better?
The SH-5's higher output (14.1K vs 16.6K) and ceramic construction are optimized for extreme gain and deliver a cleaner noise floor under high-distortion conditions. The SH-3 remains articulate at high gain but is more versatile across moderate gain too.
Are both pickups suitable for metal?
Yes, both work in metal, but the SH-5 is purpose-built for modern metal and djent with aggressive response, while the SH-3 suits progressive and hard rock metal where balanced definition and controlled sustain matter more.
Do both have 4-conductor wiring?
Yes, both include 4-conductor lead wires enabling coil-splitting, series/parallel wiring, and other custom configurations for future modifications.