11101-05-B vs 11101-05-Z — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra Pickup
Both are Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 bridge humbuckers with nearly identical electrical specs (8.1–8.13 kΩ) and construction, differing only in cosmetics and stated genre fit. The Black suits players prioritizing classic rock and hard rock aggression, while the Zebra appeals to blues and jazz players seeking vintage PAF authenticity with harmonic complexity.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Black Pickup
- ✓ Black bobbin matches modern hard rock and aggressive tone aesthetic
- ✓ Explicitly rated for hard rock and metal-adjacent genres
- ✓ Hand-wound on classic Leesona 102 machine with proven reliability
- ✓ Single-conductor braided push-back lead wire included
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Zebra bobbins deliver classic vintage PAF visual authenticity
- ✓ Explicitly rated for jazz and blues—broader vintage spectrum
- ✓ Detailed EQ response published (6 bass / 3 mid / 8 treble) for informed choice
- ✓ 1-conductor or 4-conductor (coil-split) versions available for flexibility
Frequently asked questions
Are these pickups electrically identical?
Effectively yes. Both measure 8.1–8.13 kΩ DC resistance, use Alnico 5 magnets, 42AWG plain enamel wire, and vacuum wax potting. The Zebra publishes a resonant peak at 6 kHz and EQ values (6 bass / 3 mid / 8 treble), but the Black's warm midrange and smooth highs suggest a similar tonal curve.
Which is better for jazz or blues?
The Zebra is officially rated for both blues and jazz, whereas the Black lists blues but not jazz. The Zebra emphasizes harmonic complexity and vintage PAF character, which typically suits jazz articulation and sustain better.
Can I get coil-splitting with either pickup?
The Zebra explicitly offers a 4-conductor version for coil-splitting capability. The Black ships with standard 2-conductor wiring; no coil-split option is mentioned.
What's the visual difference?
The Black has a solid black bobbin finish for a modern look. The Zebra has traditional alternating black-and-white striped bobbins, evoking classic vintage pickups. Both are hand-built in the USA.