11101-05-W vs 11102-05-RZ — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-2b Jazz Model Reverse Zebra Pickup
The SH-1b '59 is a higher-output, vintage-voiced bridge pickup ideal for blues and classic rock, while the SH-2b Jazz is a lower-output, articulate workhorse built for jazz fusion and studio clarity. Choose the '59 for warm, woody traditional tones; choose the Jazz for refined, flexible modern application.
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Seymour Duncan SH-2b Jazz Model Reverse Zebra Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-2b Jazz Model Reverse Zebra Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White Pickup
- ✓ Higher output (8.1kΩ) drives tube amps into natural breakup more readily
- ✓ Woody midrange presence suits blues and vintage rock perfectly
- ✓ Simpler 2-conductor wiring keeps installation straightforward
- ✓ Warm, smooth sustain characteristic of classic humbucker voicing
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-2b Jazz Model Reverse Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Lower output (7.50kΩ) preserves clarity and string definition in high-gain contexts
- ✓ 4-conductor lead wire enables series, parallel, and split-coil wiring flexibility
- ✓ Natural compression and focused response excel in studio and clean settings
- ✓ Hand-built in Santa Barbara with reverse zebra aesthetic appeal
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for jazz and fusion?
The SH-2b Jazz Model is purpose-built for jazz fusion and studio sessions, with lower output and articulate response. The SH-1b '59 is optimized for blues and rock, not jazz applications.
What is the output difference and does it matter?
The SH-1b has 8.1kΩ resistance versus the SH-2b's 7.50kΩ. The higher output of the '59 drives tube amps into breakup more easily; the lower output of the Jazz preserves clarity and dynamic response, particularly in clean tones and studio recording.
Can I use either pickup in multiple wiring configurations?
The SH-2b Jazz includes a 4-conductor lead wire supporting series, parallel, and split-coil options. The SH-1b '59 uses simpler 2-conductor wiring suited for standard bridge installation without coil-split capability.
Which pickup is better for heavy rock or metal?
Neither is ideal for metal or extreme high-gain styles. Both are designed for warm, articulate tones and moderate output. The SH-2b's lower output makes it slightly less suitable for metal than the '59, but neither is recommended for that genre.