11101-05-RNBc-TS vs 11101-05-RNRc-GM — Compare

Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup

Both are vintage-voiced SH-1b '59 bridge pickups with nearly identical specs, but they differ in cover aesthetics and subtle tonal emphasis. The Raw Nickel Bdr TShell suits players prioritizing tight, transparent tone with defined rhythm clarity, while the Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh appeals to those seeking warmer midrange and natural compression for classic rock and blues.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup

$135.00
View Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup

Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup

$135.00
View Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup

Specs side by side

Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell PickupSeymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup
Price$135.00$135.00
BrandSeymour DuncanSeymour Duncan
ConditionNewNew

Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Bdr TShell Pickup

  • Tight, controlled low end with transparent response
  • Tortoiseshell cover provides classic vintage appearance
  • Excellent for defined rhythm work alongside lead tones
  • Articulate output avoids excessive gain

Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Raw Nickel Rad Gold Mesh Pickup

  • Warm midrange character with natural compression
  • Gold mesh cover offers distinctive aesthetic alternative
  • Responds dynamically to pick dynamics with clarity
  • Balanced frequency response across the spectrum
Bottom line: Choose the Bdr TShell if you want articulate, tight definition for rhythm-focused blues and rock playing. Choose the Rad Gold Mesh if you prefer warm, compressed midrange and sustained clarity for classic rock lead work.

Frequently asked questions

Are the cores and magnets identical between these two?

Both use Alnico 5 (or Alnico V) magnets, 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire, vacuum wax potting, long-legged nickel-silver bottom plates, and vintage braided leads. The primary difference is tonal voice and cover style, not core construction.

Which one has more output or gain?

Both are vintage-output designs. The Bdr TShell is rated at 8.2K DCR; the Rad Gold Mesh specs are not separately listed but both deliver controlled, non-aggressive output suited to intermediate through professional players.

Will one work better for metal or high-gain styles?

Neither is ideal for metal or djent according to their specifications. Both are voiced for blues, rock, and jazz—vintage character and balanced response prioritize articulation over aggressive saturation.

Does the cover material affect the tone noticeably?

Cover material (tortoiseshell versus gold mesh) makes minimal sonic difference; the tonal distinction between these two stems more from their voicing emphasis—tight/transparent versus warm/compressed—than the cover itself.

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