11101-05-W4c vs 11101-05-Z4c — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
Both are budget-friendly Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 models with nearly identical specs and construction, but the White suits lead-focused classic rock and hard rock players, while the Zebra adds jazz compatibility and emphasizes a warmer, slightly compressed midrange. Choose based on aesthetic preference and whether you prioritize articulate highs (White) or woody warmth (Zebra).
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Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 4-Conductor Pickup
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model White 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 White 4-Conductor Pickup
- ✓ Articulate highs and treble emphasis (8/10 EQ) cut through mixes on lead lines
- ✓ Slightly lower DC resistance (8.13k) for tighter response
- ✓ White cover matches vintage aesthetic perfectly
- ✓ Excellent for hard rock and studio tracking clarity
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Zebra 4-Conductor Pickup
- ✓ Warm, woody fundamental tone ideal for blues and jazz contexts
- ✓ Slightly compressed midrange adds musical character and sustain
- ✓ Hand-wound on Leesona 102 for boutique precision feel
- ✓ Zebra coil configuration complements vintage guitar aesthetics
Frequently asked questions
What's the actual tonal difference between these two pickups?
The White emphasizes articulate highs (8/10 treble EQ) with controlled lows for cutting definition. The Zebra prioritizes warm, woody fundamentals with a slightly compressed midrange that encourages musical breakup. Both use Alnico V magnets and similar construction, but the EQ voicing differs: White is brighter, Zebra is rounder.
Are the DC resistance numbers different enough to matter?
Minimal difference: White is 8.13k, Zebra is 8.2k. Both sit in moderate-output range. This won't cause noticeable volume shift; the tonal character comes from winding, magnet configuration, and EQ curve rather than resistance alone.
Which one is better for jazz?
The Zebra is listed as suitable for jazz, while the White is not. The Zebra's warmer, slightly compressed character and woody tone blend better with jazz articulation and sustain needs.
Do both support coil-splitting and switching?
Yes. Both feature 4-conductor wiring that enables coil-splitting, series/parallel switching, and standard configurations for maximum wiring flexibility.