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Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup vs Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-4 Blackouts For Bass Pickup
The SSB-5N is a passive 5-string neck pickup suited for funk, jazz, and rock with transparent tone, while the ASB-BO-4 is an active 4-string pickup designed for metal, funk, and slap bass with aggressive high-output character. Choose the SSB-5N for jazz and studio work requiring clarity; choose the ASB-BO-4 for metal and modern styles demanding punch and scooped mids.
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Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup
Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-4 Blackouts For Bass Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup | Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-4 Blackouts For Bass Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Neck | Any Position |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery or external power
- ✓ Balanced EQ (6/4/7) sits transparently in the mix without heavy coloration
- ✓ 5-string configuration with up to 3.10" string spacing
- ✓ Lower output ideal for subtle, articulate jazz and studio tones
Why choose Seymour Duncan ASB-BO-4 Blackouts For Bass Pickup
- ✓ High-output active pickup with aggressive presence and tight low end
- ✓ Scooped mid EQ (Bass 9 / Mid 5 / Treble 9) cuts through dense metal mixes
- ✓ Dual-blade design ensures consistent string-to-string balance
- ✓ Hand-built in California with proven durability for modern styles
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for metal?
The ASB-BO-4 is designed specifically for metal with its high-output, scooped-mid character and aggressive treble emphasis. The SSB-5N is not ideal for metal due to its balanced, transparent voicing.
Do these pickups require batteries?
No for the SSB-5N—it is entirely passive. Yes for the ASB-BO-4—it requires a battery to power its active electronics, which deliver the high output and aggressive EQ shaping.
Can I use either pickup on my existing bass?
The SSB-5N fits EMG 40-sized cavities on 5-string basses with up to 3.10" string spacing. The ASB-BO-4 fits EMG 35-sized cavities on 4-string basses with up to 2.70" string spacing. Check your bass cavity size before purchasing.
Which is better for jazz and studio work?
The SSB-5N excels in jazz and studio sessions with its balanced fundamentals and controlled mid-range. The ASB-BO-4 is not ideal for jazz due to its scooped mids and aggressive character.