11102-84-W vs 11103-05-RZ — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5 White Pickup vs Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Reverse Zebra Pickup
The SH-14 Custom 5 is a higher-output, articulate bridge pickup built for rock, metal, and hard rock with punchy attack and controlled midrange, while the TB-59 '59 Trembucker is a lower-output vintage-voiced pickup optimized for blues, rock, and alternative with warm character and responsive dynamics. Choose the SH-14 for modern high-gain rigs and genre clarity; choose the TB-59 for classic tone and natural breakup.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Reverse Zebra Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5 White Pickup | Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Reverse Zebra Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5 White Pickup
- ✓ Higher output (14.1 ohms) drives modern and vintage amps with defined punch
- ✓ Articulate, balanced midrange cuts through dense mixes without sounding thin
- ✓ Punchy attack and natural compression excel in metal and progressive contexts
- ✓ Moderate voicing sits well in bridge position without overwhelming the mix
Why choose Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Reverse Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Lower output (8.5K ohms) delivers warm, vintage PAF-inspired character
- ✓ Responsive to pick dynamics and amp interaction for natural breakup
- ✓ F-spaced Trembucker geometry aligns precisely with modern wide-spaced bridges
- ✓ Articulate highs with full lows avoid midrange compression of vintage designs
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup works better for metal and djent?
The SH-14 Custom 5 is designed for metal and hard rock with its punchy attack, controlled midrange, and higher output. The TB-59 is not ideal for metal or djent, as its lower output and vintage voicing favor organic breakup over aggressive gain.
Which is better for blues and classic rock?
The TB-59 '59 excels in blues, rock, and alternative with its warm vintage character, responsive pick dynamics, and natural breakup. The SH-14 is not ideal for blues and is tuned more for modern aggression.
What is the main output difference?
The SH-14 Custom 5 has 14.1 ohms DC resistance, delivering moderate-to-high output with punchy definition. The TB-59 has 8.5K ohms and vintage output level, producing warmer, more compressed tones that respond organically to amp interaction.
Are both pickups hand-built and vacuum potted?
Yes, both are hand-built or hand-assembled in Santa Barbara, California, and vacuum wax potted to eliminate microphonic feedback. Both use Alnico 5 magnets, nickel silver bottom plates, and 4-conductor lead wires for wiring flexibility.