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Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Nickel Cover vs Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
The SH-55N Seth Lover Model is a vintage-focused neck pickup with lower output (7.2k resistance) and darker character from its nickel cover, while the PAF Benedetto is a hotter, more versatile jazz humbucker (8.3k resistance) designed for both neck and bridge positions. Choose the SH-55N if you prioritize classic warmth and play primarily neck position; choose the Benedetto if you want flexible wiring options and slightly more presence across the frequency spectrum.
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Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Nickel Cover
Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Nickel Cover | Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Neck | Any Position |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan Humbucker SH-55N Seth Lover Model Neck Pickup Nickel Cover
- ✓ Lower 7.2k DC resistance designed specifically for smooth neck position response
- ✓ Darker, more sophisticated tone from nickel silver cover
- ✓ Alnico 2 magnet and plain enamel wire deliver authentic vintage harmonic complexity
- ✓ Budget-friendly entry point to hand-built Seymour Duncan quality
Why choose Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
- ✓ Higher 8.3k DC resistance provides more clarity and sustain without muddiness
- ✓ 4-conductor lead wire enables split-coil and series/parallel switching
- ✓ Alnico 5 magnet offers warmer, more responsive output
- ✓ Fully shielded construction minimizes noise for quiet jazz settings
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup in both neck and bridge positions?
The SH-55N is voiced specifically for neck position with lower output and smoother response. The Benedetto, with its higher 8.3k resistance and Alnico 5 magnet, is designed for flexibility across both positions, making it the better choice for dual-coil setups.
Which pickup is better for archtop jazz guitars?
The PAF Benedetto was developed in collaboration with luthier John Benedetto specifically for archtop instruments and includes fully shielded construction optimized for jazz settings. The SH-55N works well for jazz but is a more general-purpose neck pickup.
What's the practical tonal difference between Alnico 2 and Alnico 5?
The Alnico 2 in the SH-55N yields darker, more vintage-correct harmonic complexity with a softer response, while the Alnico 5 in the Benedetto produces warmer, more responsive output with better note separation and clarity across frequencies.
Do these pickups require potting or special installation?
Both are hand-built with traditional techniques and mount using standard humbucker rings. The SH-55N uses black paper tape without wax potting; the Benedetto includes fully shielded construction. Both integrate with standard guitar wiring, though only the Benedetto offers 4-conductor flexibility for advanced switching.