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Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5 Black Pickup vs Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Black Pickup
The SH-14 Custom 5 is a high-output metal pickup with aggressive scooped mids, while the TB-59 '59 is a lower-output vintage-style pickup with balanced tone suited to blues and rock. Choose the SH-14 for modern metal and djent; choose the TB-59 for classic rock, blues, and players with tremolo systems who want articulate, warm character.
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Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Black Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5 Black Pickup | Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Black Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-14 Custom 5 Black Pickup
- ✓ 14.4 kΩ high output designed for extreme distortion and metal tones
- ✓ Scooped midrange EQ (6/3/8) cuts through dense, high-gain mixes
- ✓ 5.4 kHz resonant peak maintains clarity and articulation in heavy styles
- ✓ Nickel silver bottom plate enhances magnetic response for punchy attack
Why choose Seymour Duncan TB-59 '59 Trembucker Black Pickup
- ✓ 8.13 kΩ controlled output breaks up naturally at moderate gain for blues and rock
- ✓ Trembucker pole spacing optimized for tremolo or wide-spaced bridges
- ✓ 6 kHz resonant peak and balanced EQ (6/3/8) provide articulate, vintage character
- ✓ Warm low end and treble clarity work well in studio and live gigging contexts
Frequently asked questions
What's the main difference in output level between these pickups?
The SH-14 Custom 5 has 14.4 kΩ DC resistance for high-output aggression, while the TB-59 '59 has 8.13 kΩ for controlled, moderate output. The SH-14 is designed to sustain extreme distortion; the TB-59 breaks up naturally at lower gain.
Which pickup works best with tremolo bridges?
The TB-59 '59 is specifically designed as a Trembucker with wider pole piece spacing for tremolo systems and wide-spaced hardtail bridges. The SH-14 Custom 5 is a standard humbucker and does not address tremolo-specific string spacing.
Can either pickup be coil-split?
Yes, both pickups feature four-conductor cables that enable coil-splitting and series/parallel switching in compatible guitars, giving you tonal flexibility beyond stock wiring.
Are these pickups hand-built and where?
Both are hand-built in Santa Barbara, California, and both use Alnico V magnets and vacuum wax potting to eliminate microphonic feedback. They share premium construction standards but differ in output level and EQ voicing.