Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered Strat Calibrated Set Pickup

Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered Strat Calibrated Set Pickup

The SSL-5 Custom Staggered delivers high-output single-coil performance with articulate midrange punch and extended sustain, built for players who demand vintage-compatible clarity backed by modern power on stage and in the studio. This calibrated three-pickup set balances aggressive treble and bass response while maintaining the classic Strat character that defines single-coil versatility across all positions—essential for gigging musicians who need consistency from neck through bridge.

Tone & Output Character

Hand-wound with an overwound coil design, this pickup yields significantly higher output than vintage single coils while preserving harmonic complexity and definition. The staggered, hand-ground alnico V rod magnets provide focused magnetic field control that strengthens note articulation and reduces the dull frequencies common in lesser designs—critical for cutting through a live mix without sacrificing touch sensitivity.

Construction & Reliability

Built with hand-constructed bobbins wound on modern oval Forbon flatwork in a non-triangular design that installs directly into standard single-coil routes without modification. Each bobbin is dipped in lacquer, wound, and wax potted for consistent performance and durability across all three positions, with the included white cover offering period-correct aesthetics and proven road durability.

Key Features

• Calibrated set of 3 pickups (neck, middle, bridge positions)
• DC resistance: approximately 13.3k ohms
• High-output overwound coil yielding greater sustain and harmonic complexity
• Staggered, hand-ground alnico V rod magnets
• Hand-built bobbins with Forbon, dipped in lacquer, wound, and wax potted
• Modern oval Forbon flatwork design compatible with standard single-coil routes
• White cover included
• Reverse wound, reverse polarity (RW/RP) middle pickup available for hum canceling in positions 2 and 4
• Optional tapped version for dual output levels
• Left-hand magnet stagger option available
• 7-string version available

The SSL-5 Custom Staggered combines aggressive output with refined tonal character, delivering the sustain and clarity needed to stand out in a live setting while respecting the single-coil tradition that made Strats essential instruments for working musicians.