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Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set vs Seymour Duncan SSB-5NYCS NYC Passive Soapbar 5-String Pickup Set
The Retro Antiquity II is a Strat single-coil set for electric guitar focused on vintage surf and rock tones, while the SSB-5NYC is a 5-string bass soapbar pickup set designed for modern studio and live work. These are completely different instruments—choose based on whether you're outfitting a guitar or bass.
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Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set
Seymour Duncan SSB-5NYCS NYC Passive Soapbar 5-String Pickup Set
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set | Seymour Duncan SSB-5NYCS NYC Passive Soapbar 5-String Pickup Set | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $327.00 | $329.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | — | Set |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity II Strat Surfer Pickup Set
- ✓ Authentic 1960s vintage single-coil character with modern clarity
- ✓ Bridge pickup 50% hotter for enhanced midrange without muddiness
- ✓ RW/RP middle pickup eliminates hum in positions 2 and 4
- ✓ Hand-crafted in USA with period-correct construction and wiring
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSB-5NYCS NYC Passive Soapbar 5-String Pickup Set
- ✓ Three wiring modes (vintage, quiet single-coil, maximum output) from one set
- ✓ Tight, articulate low end with warm vintage character suitable for studio and live
- ✓ Dual coil J-type design minimizes crosstalk on 5-string bass
- ✓ Balanced neck and bridge voicing ensures even response across 5-string range
Frequently asked questions
What instrument does each pickup set fit?
The Retro Antiquity II is designed for Fender Strat-style electric guitars with three single-coil positions. The SSB-5NYC is built for 5-string bass guitars with standard DC 40 routs.
Which set offers more tonal versatility?
The SSB-5NYC offers three distinct wiring modes accessible via its four-conductor lead wire, providing vintage, single-coil, and maximum output tones from one set. The Retro Antiquity II delivers a focused vintage tone range optimized for surf and rock without switching options.
Are these pickups suitable for beginners?
The Retro Antiquity II is rated for beginner through professional skill levels. The SSB-5NYC is rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional players, reflecting its more specialized dual-coil J-type design and wiring complexity.
What magnet types are used in each?
The Retro Antiquity II uses degaussed Alnico 5 magnets for vintage character and resonance. The SSB-5NYC uses Alnico 2 magnets with exposed pole pieces in a double row configuration, tuned for clarity and defined resonant peaks.