11102-17-RNRc-GM vs 11102-21-A-SB-8Str — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Raw Nickel Rad Gold Msh Pickup vs Seymour Duncan 8-String Distortion Bridge, Active Mount, Soapbar Pickup
The SH-5 Duncan Custom is a versatile, moderate-output humbucker designed for standard 6-string guitars across rock and metal genres, while the 8-String Distortion Bridge is a high-output soapbar pickup built exclusively for 8-string extended-range instruments with aggressive, sustained tones. Choose the SH-5 if you play standard guitars and want balanced articulation; choose the 8-String Distortion if you own an 8-string and need punchy, high-gain clarity.
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Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Raw Nickel Rad Gold Msh Pickup
Seymour Duncan 8-String Distortion Bridge, Active Mount, Soapbar Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Raw Nickel Rad Gold Msh Pickup | Seymour Duncan 8-String Distortion Bridge, Active Mount, Soapbar Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom Raw Nickel Rad Gold Msh Pickup
- ✓ Moderate output with natural breakup suits both clean and driven tones
- ✓ Mid-forward EQ (7/6/9) provides vocal clarity without muddiness
- ✓ Versatile across rock, metal, and alternative styles
- ✓ 4-conductor wiring enables split-coil flexibility
Why choose Seymour Duncan 8-String Distortion Bridge, Active Mount, Soapbar Pickup
- ✓ Purpose-built for 8-string guitars with soapbar form factor
- ✓ High-output design and large ceramic magnet deliver aggression and sustain
- ✓ Adjustable pole pieces optimize string-to-string balance across eight strings
- ✓ Active mount hardware installs without routing modifications
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the 8-String Distortion on a regular 6-string guitar?
No. The 8-String Distortion is a soapbar pickup designed for 8-string guitar cavities and will not fit standard humbucker routes on 6-string instruments.
Which pickup has more output?
The 8-String Distortion is high-output with a large ceramic magnet, while the SH-5 Duncan Custom is moderate-output with a small ceramic magnet. The 8-String Distortion delivers more raw gain.
Are both pickups vacuum wax potted?
Yes. Both the SH-5 and 8-String Distortion use vacuum wax potting to eliminate microphonic feedback and ensure long-term stability.
Which is better for metal?
Both suit metal, but the SH-5 balances aggression with articulation and works on standard-tuned or drop-tuned 6-strings, while the 8-String Distortion is optimized for extremely low tunings and extended-range djent and progressive metal.