Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Cover Pickup

Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Cover Pickup

The SH-1b '59 Model is a bridge-position humbucker engineered to capture the warm, articulate character of vintage Gibson pickups. On stage or in the studio, this passive design delivers the harmonic complexity and dynamic response that defined 1950s electrics, balancing clarity with natural sustain across all playing intensities—from controlled rhythm work to screaming lead runs.

Tone & Construction

Alnico V magnets paired with 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire produce the smooth, slightly compressed midrange and singing treble that cut through a live mix without sacrificing musicality. The vacuum wax potting eliminates microphonics—critical for reliable on-stage performance—while preserving the organic articulation that makes this pickup family instantly recognizable in any band context.

Winding & Materials

Wound on an original Leesona 102 winding machine—the exact machine used in Gibson's Kalamazoo factory—this pickup maintains authentic specifications in every detail. The long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate and vintage single-conductor braided lead wire ensure period-accurate impedance and tonal behavior that translates reliably through any rig, from classic tube heads to modern solid-states.

Key Features

• Model: SH-1b '59 Model
• Position: Bridge
• Pickup Type: Passive Humbucker
• Magnet Type: Alnico V
• DC Resistance: Approx. 8.1kΩ
• Wire Gauge: 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire
• Magnet Processing: Vacuum wax potted
• Winding Machine: Original Leesona 102 (Gibson Kalamazoo factory machine)
• Bottom Plate: Long-legged nickel-silver material
• Lead Wire: Vintage single-conductor braided push back
• Spacing: 6-string standard humbucker
• Cover: Black (included)
• Wiring: 2-Conductor

This pickup delivers the tonal authenticity and build integrity that make it a trusted choice for players seeking genuine vintage-voiced bridge performance with the durability and consistency that gigging musicians depend on.