11102-70-Z vs 11102-85-B — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-11 Custom Custom Zebra Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Black Pickup
The SH-11 Custom Custom emphasizes punchy midrange clarity with controlled treble (5.2 kHz peak, 3/7/7 EQ), while the SH-15 Alternative 8 pushes aggressive upper-mids and sparkly highs (4.46 kHz peak, 7/8/9 EQ) with higher output. Choose the SH-11 for balanced articulation in metal and progressive styles; pick the SH-15 for aggressive treble presence in alternative and hard rock.
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Seymour Duncan SH-11 Custom Custom Zebra Pickup
Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Black Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-11 Custom Custom Zebra Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Black Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-11 Custom Custom Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Lower output (14.4 kΩ) provides tighter control and cleaner definition at high gain
- ✓ 5.2 kHz resonant peak focuses tone in punchy midrange sweet spot
- ✓ Balanced EQ curve (3/7/7) avoids excessive brightness while maintaining clarity
- ✓ Slightly more articulate for complex riffs and polyrhythmic passages
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Black Pickup
- ✓ Higher output (17.68 kΩ) delivers more aggression and sustain
- ✓ Alnico VIII magnets produce aggressive, cutting treble response
- ✓ 7/8/9 EQ emphasizes upper-mid crunch ideal for crunchy rhythms
- ✓ 4.46 kHz peak cuts through dense mixes with sparkling high-end character
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup has higher output?
The SH-15 Alternative 8 has significantly higher output at 17.68 kΩ DC resistance compared to the SH-11's 14.4 kΩ. Higher output delivers more aggression and sustain but requires careful gain staging to avoid muddiness.
How do the frequency characteristics differ?
The SH-11 peaks at 5.2 kHz with a 3/7/7 EQ curve that emphasizes midrange punch and controlled treble. The SH-15 peaks at 4.46 kHz with a 7/8/9 EQ curve that boosts bass and treble, creating a more aggressive upper-mid and sparkly high-end character.
Which is better for tight, defined rhythm playing?
The SH-11 Custom Custom's lower output and midrange-focused EQ provide tighter definition and cleaner note separation, making it ideal for complex rhythmic playing. The SH-15 offers more aggression and sustain, suiting thicker, crunchier rhythm tones.
Are both suitable for metal and hard rock?
Yes, both are listed as suitable for metal and hard rock. The SH-11 suits progressive metal and djent with its articulate clarity, while the SH-15 suits alternative and traditional hard rock with its aggressive treble and stronger output.