Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
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- Brand new in original box
- Full Seymour Duncan manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
Out of stock
- SKU
- 11101-05-RZ4c
Description
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
The SH-1b '59 Model delivers the warm, articulate character that defined classic rock tones. This Reverse Zebra humbucker combines vintage output with modern 4-conductor wiring flexibility, making it equally at home in a restoration project or a player's workhorse instrument. The balanced response and natural compression of an Alnico V magnet give this pickup authority without excessive aggression—perfect for gigging musicians who need reliable, stage-proven tone night after night.
Tone & Output Character
An 8.2K DCR and Alnico V magnet produce the classic vintage output profile—smooth midrange presence, controlled highs, and responsive dynamics across all playing intensities. The vacuum wax potted construction ensures feedback-free sustain and consistent performance over time, keeping your tone locked in through long sets and variable venue acoustics.
Construction & Wiring
Built with 42AWG plain enamel wire and a long-legged nickel silver bottom plate, this pickup offers exceptional durability and tonal clarity. The 4-conductor cable opens possibilities for series/parallel switching, split-coil operation, or phase reversal—standard integration into modern guitar electronics for players who want switching flexibility without reworking their wiring.
Key Features
- Magnet: Alnico V
- DCR: 8.2K ohms
- Output level: Vintage
- Wire gauge: 42AWG plain enamel
- 4-conductor cable configuration
- Bottom plate: Long-legged nickel silver
- Vacuum wax potted construction
- Mount type: Humbucker (6-string)
- Finish: Reverse Zebra (Black/Cream)
- No Seymour Duncan logo (vintage aesthetic)
- Manufactured in the United States
This pickup rewards both restoration builds and active players seeking the uncolored midrange and natural feel that made the '59 design legendary—a true workhorse for any setup that demands honest tone and road reliability.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model is a Reverse Zebra humbucker built for classic rock, blues, and studio work—delivering warm midrange, articulate highs, and natural compression without the aggression of modern pickups. Its 8.2K vintage output and Alnico V magnet give you the balanced, responsive tone that defined '59 designs, with the durability and feedback-free sustain that holds up through gigging and recording sessions. The 4-conductor wiring unlocks series/parallel switching and split-coil flexibility, making it equally suited to restoration builds or retrofitting into your workhorse instrument.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Classic Rock
- ✓ Blues
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Metal
- – Djent
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level do I need to install this pickup?
This pickup suits intermediate to professional players and builders. Installation requires basic soldering skills and familiarity with guitar electronics; the 4-conductor cable simplifies wiring compared to 2-conductor designs, and the long-legged nickel silver bottom plate ensures durability during handling and adjustment.
Is this pickup good for metal or high-gain styles?
No—the SH-1b '59 is voiced for classic rock, blues, and studio sessions. Its warm, controlled character and natural compression don't suit metal or djent, where tighter, more aggressive voicings work better.
What does the 4-conductor wiring let me do?
The 4-conductor cable enables series/parallel switching, split-coil operation, and phase reversal—features that modern guitar electronics can harness for tonal flexibility without requiring multiple pickups or rewiring.
How does the vintage output compare to hot aftermarket pickups?
The 8.2K DCR and Alnico V magnet deliver classic vintage output—smooth, balanced, and responsive—rather than the aggression and compression of high-output designs, making it ideal for players who want articulation and clarity over sheer volume.
Will this pickup work in my restoration or retrofit project?
Yes. The humbucker mount, vintage aesthetic (Reverse Zebra finish with no logo), and feedback-free vacuum wax potted construction suit both period-correct restoration builds and modern instruments seeking classic tone and durability.
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