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Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel) vs Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Gold)
Both are hand-built Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto pickups with identical core specs and pricing, but they differ in cover finish and stated tonal character. The Black/Nickel version emphasizes low output and smooth sustain for studio precision, while the Gold version highlights natural compression and balanced output for versatile gigging across jazz, blues, and rock.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel) | Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Gold) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Any Position | Any Position |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
- ✓ Low output design for cleaner articulation and studio recording detail
- ✓ Smooth sustain profile suits progressive and complex compositions
- ✓ Explicitly optimized for studio sessions and session work
Why choose Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Gold)
- ✓ Balanced output offers more versatility across multiple genres
- ✓ Natural compression and harmonic richness add musicality to note expression
- ✓ Gold finish provides classic aesthetics with proven RF shielding
Frequently asked questions
What is the actual output difference between these two pickups?
The Gold version is specified at 8.30k ohms DC resistance with balanced output, while the Black/Nickel version is described as low output. Exact ohm ratings for Black/Nickel are not provided, but the lower output rating suggests reduced midrange emphasis and cleaner transient response.
Will the finish (Black/Nickel vs. Gold) affect the tone?
Both finishes provide RF shielding and follow standard PAF voicing principles. The tonal differences listed appear to stem from magnet configuration and coil winding rather than finish alone; finish choice is primarily aesthetic and both function identically in that regard.
Are these pickups hand-built and where?
Yes, both are hand-built in Santa Barbara, CA by Seymour Duncan. They receive individual attention during assembly and include 4-conductor shielded lead wire, Alnico 5 bar magnets, and standard humbucker mounting rings.
Which version is better for metal or high-gain playing?
Neither is ideal for metal, djent, or thrash metal. Both are voiced for jazz, blues, and rock clarity rather than saturation and aggression. If you must choose between them for heavier styles, the Gold version's balanced output may handle gain slightly better, but these pickups are fundamentally designed for articulate, vintage-focused tones.