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Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Cover Pickup
The SH-1n is a neck-position pickup with 7.6K output and a raw nickel/gold mesh cover, while the SH-1b is a bridge-position pickup with 8.1K output and a black cover. Choose the SH-1n for warm, responsive neck tones in a vintage aesthetic; choose the SH-1b for bridge-position clarity with slightly more output and harmonic complexity.
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Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Cover Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Cover Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1n '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup
- ✓ Neck-position voicing optimized for smooth, controlled response
- ✓ Lower output (7.6K) preserves articulation and touch sensitivity
- ✓ Raw nickel and gold mesh cover offers distinctive vintage appearance
- ✓ Balanced warm mids without excessive sustain
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Cover Pickup
- ✓ Bridge-position design with slightly higher output (8.1K) for cutting clarity
- ✓ Natural sustain and harmonic complexity suited to bridge placement
- ✓ Black cover blends seamlessly with standard guitar aesthetics
- ✓ 2-conductor wiring offers more wiring flexibility
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these pickups interchangeably in neck and bridge positions?
No. The SH-1n is engineered for neck position with lower output and response tuned for neck-specific tone character. The SH-1b is designed for bridge position with higher output and harmonic complexity suited to that location. Installing them in the opposite position will result in tonal imbalance.
What is the difference in output between these two?
The SH-1n has 7.6K DCR while the SH-1b has approximately 8.1K DCR. This 0.5K difference means the bridge pickup produces slightly higher output and more articulate treble response, typical of bridge-position design philosophy.
Are both pickups suitable for blues and classic rock?
Yes, both are voiced for blues, rock, jazz, and classic rock genres. The difference is positional voicing: the neck SH-1n excels at warm, touch-responsive lead tones and rhythm clarity, while the bridge SH-1b provides cutting sustain and harmonic detail for lead work and rhythm definition.
Why is the SH-1n called 'Raw Nickel' with a gold mesh cover?
The raw nickel refers to the finish of the bottom plate and internal hardware, while the gold mesh is the decorative cover. This is a cosmetic variation—both pickups use identical Alnico V magnets, 42AWG wire, and vacuum wax potting. The SH-1b's black cover is the standard aesthetic alternative.