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Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Zebra Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, White Pickup
The SH-15 Alternative 8 is a high-output, articulate bridge pickup engineered for aggressive modern rock and metal, while the SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid is a medium-output versatile pickup that balances vintage warmth with modern clarity across blues, rock, and high-gain styles. Choose the SH-15 for cutting definition in dense mixes; choose the SH-16 for tonal flexibility and feedback rejection.
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Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Zebra Pickup
Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, White Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Zebra Pickup | Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, White Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-15 Alternative 8 Zebra Pickup
- ✓ Higher DC resistance (17.68 kΩ) delivers more aggressive output and punch
- ✓ Resonant peak at 4.46 kHz emphasizes mid-range presence and high-end bite for modern rock and metal
- ✓ EQ voicing (7/8/9) prioritizes clarity and articulation for tight note separation
- ✓ Bridge-position optimization with Alnico 8 magnet for controlled aggression
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-16 59/Custom Hybrid, White Pickup
- ✓ Lower DC resistance (11.5 kΩ) provides balanced medium output suitable for multiple genres
- ✓ Mismatched-coil design (59 screws/Custom slug) combines vintage warmth with modern articulation
- ✓ Resonant peak at 5.95 KHz and EQ profile (8/6/6) excel at fast passages and sustained sustain
- ✓ Feedback-resistant design maintains clarity at volume without harshness
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for metal?
The SH-15 Alternative 8 is purpose-built for metal with its higher output (17.68 kΩ), aggressive EQ voicing, and emphasis on clarity in dense mixes. The SH-16 works in metal but leans more versatile across multiple genres.
Can the SH-16 handle blues better than the SH-15?
Yes. The SH-16's mismatched-coil design and balanced EQ (8/6/6) deliver vintage warmth and sustain ideal for blues, while the SH-15's aggressive presence and high-end bite are better suited to modern rock and metal.
What's the output difference between these pickups?
The SH-15 Alternative 8 has higher output at 17.68 kΩ DC resistance, delivering more aggression. The SH-16 is medium output at 11.5 kΩ, making it more balanced and feedback-resistant at high volumes.
Are both pickups hand-built and potted?
Yes. Both are hand-built in Santa Barbara, California using vacuum wax potting, feature nickel silver bottom plates, and four-conductor wiring for flexible switching options.