11105-14-B-7Str vs 11106-502-B — Compare
Seymour Duncan SH-4/SH-2n Rail 7-String Matte Black Pickup Set vs Seymour Duncan MortalCoil Black Pickup Set
The SH-4/SH-2n Rail is a passive 7-string-specific matched pair optimized for even response across extended fingerboards, while the MortalCoil Black is an active multi-voice system offering tonal versatility in both 6 and 7-string formats. The Rails suit players prioritizing consistent tracking and straightforward installation; the MortalCoil Black suits those wanting switchable voice options and maximum modern metal aggression with one pickup.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan SH-4/SH-2n Rail 7-String Matte Black Pickup Set
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SH-4/SH-2n Rail 7-String Matte Black Pickup Set | Seymour Duncan MortalCoil Black Pickup Set | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $278.00 | $279.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SH-4/SH-2n Rail 7-String Matte Black Pickup Set
- ✓ Rail-blade design eliminates dead zones on lower strings of 7-string guitars
- ✓ Passive operation requires no battery or power conditioning
- ✓ Matched pair engineered specifically for 7-string cavity dimensions
- ✓ Hand-built Santa Barbara construction with Alnico 8 magnets
Why choose Seymour Duncan MortalCoil Black Pickup Set
- ✓ Active multi-voice system with three distinct tonal characters in one pickup
- ✓ Includes complete potentiometers and wiring harness—no separate sourcing needed
- ✓ Available in both 6-string and 7-string configurations for format flexibility
- ✓ Advanced op-amp circuitry delivers fast transient response and dynamic control
Frequently asked questions
Do these pickups work equally well on standard 6-string and 7-string guitars?
The SH-4/SH-2n Rail set is specifically engineered for 7-string extended-range instruments and may not perform as intended on standard 6-string guitars. The MortalCoil Black is explicitly available in both 6-string and 7-string configurations, making it flexible across formats.
What's the main tonal difference between these two setups?
The SH-4/SH-2n Rails deliver tight articulation with controlled midrange and consistent string tracking via passive Alnico 8 magnets. The MortalCoil Black uses active circuitry to offer three switchable voices—aggressive modern metal (MC1), passive JB/Jazz modes, and single-coil character—giving greater tonal range without pickup swaps.
Which requires more complex installation?
The SH-4/SH-2n Rails are passive and install straightforwardly into any wiring configuration. The MortalCoil Black ships with a complete wiring harness and potentiometers included, simplifying sourcing but requiring electronics routing for the active system and battery cavity.
Are either of these suitable for jazz or blues?
Neither pickup set is ideal for jazz or blues according to their design specifications. Both are engineered specifically for metal, djent, and progressive applications with characteristics that prioritize aggression and modern attack over the smooth, warm tones blues and jazz require.