Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup
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- Brand new in original box
- Full Seymour Duncan manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- 11101-05-B
Description
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup
The SH-1b '59 Model is a bridge humbucker that cuts through the mix with warm, articulate definition—the sound that powered classic rock and blues records. Onstage, it delivers responsive dynamics and natural compression that hold their own in any band mix, whether you're laying into rhythm parts or trading leads.
Tone & Electronics
Built around an Alnico V magnet and 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire, this pickup produces rich midrange and smooth highs without sacrificing definition. The 8.1kΩ DC resistance sits in the sweet spot for bridge applications—aggressive enough for lead work yet articulate enough for chord definition.
Construction & Materials
Hand-built in the USA on Seymour's classic Leesona 102 pickup winding machine, this pickup features a long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate, vacuum wax potting for live reliability, and vintage-style single-conductor braided push-back lead wire. The black bobbin finish completes the classic aesthetic.
Key Features
- Passive humbucker design for bridge position
- Alnico V magnet for warm, balanced tone
- DC Resistance: Approx. 8.1kΩ
- 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire
- 2-Conductor wiring (standard version)
- Long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate
- Vintage single-conductor braided push-back lead wire
- Vacuum wax potted construction
- Black bobbin finish
- Hand-built in the USA
- Wound on Seymour Duncan's classic Leesona 102 machine
A gig-proven pickup that captures the essence of the original '59 without compromise—dependable and transparent, night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black is a hand-built bridge humbucker that nails warm, articulate classic rock and blues tones with natural compression and responsive dynamics—perfect for players who want vintage character with modern road reliability. Built on Seymour's iconic Leesona winding machine using Alnico V magnets and vacuum wax potting, it delivers rich midrange and smooth highs that cut through on stage without losing chord definition. Intermediate to professional players chasing authentic '59 tone for blues, classic rock, and hard rock will find this pickup a proven, gigging-friendly choice.
Who This Is For
| Best suited for | Blues, Classic Rock, Rock, Hard Rock |
|---|---|
| Tonal character | Warm midrange, smooth highs, articulate, natural compression, responsive dynamics |
| Less specialized for | Metal, Djent (it will do it; instruments voiced for that style do it more easily) |
| Skill level | Intermediate / Advanced / Professional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The SH-1b '59 Model excels in blues, classic rock, rock, and hard rock. Its warm midrange and articulate response reward both clean chord work and driven rhythm playing, making it ideal for players working in vintage-influenced styles; it is not recommended for metal or djent.
Is this pickup hand-built, and where is it made?
Yes, it is hand-built in the USA on Seymour Duncan's classic Leesona 102 pickup winding machine. Construction includes a long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate, vacuum wax potting for reliability, and vintage-style single-conductor braided push-back lead wire.
What is the DC resistance, and why does it matter for a bridge pickup?
The DC resistance is approximately 8.1kΩ, which sits in the sweet spot for bridge applications—aggressive enough for lead work yet articulate enough to maintain chord definition and clarity in rhythm playing.
What magnet type and wire gauge does this pickup use?
The pickup uses an Alnico V magnet paired with 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire, a combination that produces rich midrange and smooth highs without sacrificing definition.
What wiring configuration does it come with?
The standard version ships with 2-conductor wiring and a vintage single-conductor braided push-back lead wire, making it straightforward to install in most guitars.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
Sales tax is collected only on orders shipped to California; orders shipped to any other US state are not charged sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. Marketplaces collect sales tax as the facilitator in most states, so the same listed price can cost more there. Buyers remain responsible for any use tax their state applies. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included.
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