11101-05-RZ4c vs 11101-05-Z4c — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
Both are budget-friendly SH-1b '59 models with identical electrical specs (8.2K DCR, Alnico V, 4-conductor), but the Reverse Zebra prioritizes pure vintage aesthetics and studio versatility, while the standard Zebra adds beginner-friendliness and slightly broader genre appeal (including Jazz). Choose Reverse Zebra for restoration builds or players who want no-logo vintage looks; choose standard Zebra if you're newer to guitar or want maximum flexibility across classic rock, blues, hard rock, and jazz.
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 Reverse Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
- ✓ No Seymour Duncan logo for authentic vintage restoration aesthetic
- ✓ Reverse Zebra finish (black/cream reversed) stands out visually
- ✓ Warm, articulate tone with natural compression suits studio sessions
- ✓ 4-conductor wiring opens series/parallel and phase-reversal options
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
- ✓ Hand-wound on Leesona 102 machine for documented precision and consistency
- ✓ Rated suitable for beginners through professionals—lower entry barrier
- ✓ Broader genre fit includes Jazz alongside classic rock, blues, and hard rock
- ✓ Warm, woody character with slightly compressed midrange sits naturally in mixes
Frequently asked questions
What's the actual tonal difference between these two pickups?
They share identical electrical specs (8.2K DCR, Alnico V, 42AWG wire, 4-conductor). The Reverse Zebra emphasizes 'controlled highs' and 'authority,' while the standard Zebra leans into 'woody fundamentals' and 'sits naturally in a mix.' Both are warm and articulate—the difference is subtle marketing nuance rather than measurable output or response gap.
Can a beginner use the Reverse Zebra, or should I start with the standard Zebra?
The Reverse Zebra is listed for intermediate, advanced, and professional skill levels, while the standard Zebra includes beginner compatibility. If you're just starting, the standard Zebra's broader skill-level support and documented hand-winding process may feel like a safer, more approachable choice.
Which one is better for Jazz?
The standard Zebra is explicitly rated for Jazz; the Reverse Zebra is not. For jazz applications, the standard Zebra's warm, slightly compressed character and controlled output are the better match.
Do both pickups come with 4-conductor wiring, and does that matter?
Yes, both include 4-conductor cables, enabling coil-splitting, series/parallel switching, and phase reversal. This wiring flexibility is identical on both models and opens the same electronic possibilities regardless of which you choose.