11106-30-B vs 11302-16-NC — Compare
Seymour Duncan AHB-1N Original Blackouts Neck Pickup Black Cover vs Seymour Duncan SPH90-1B Phat Cat Bridge Pickup(Nickel Cover)
The AHB-1N is an active, high-output neck pickup built for metal and aggressive genres, while the SPH90-1B is a passive, vintage-voiced bridge pickup ideal for jazz, blues, and warm-toned styles. Choose the Blackouts if you play heavy music and need neck clarity; choose the Phat Cat if you want classic warmth and smooth articulation.
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Seymour Duncan AHB-1N Original Blackouts Neck Pickup Black Cover
Seymour Duncan SPH90-1B Phat Cat Bridge Pickup(Nickel Cover)
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan AHB-1N Original Blackouts Neck Pickup Black Cover | Seymour Duncan SPH90-1B Phat Cat Bridge Pickup(Nickel Cover) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Neck | Bridge |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan AHB-1N Original Blackouts Neck Pickup Black Cover
- ✓ Active 9-volt design with 16 dB preamp gain delivers aggressive output and clarity for high-gain applications
- ✓ 750 Hz resonant frequency keeps neck position articulate and defined across tight tunings
- ✓ Studio-grade noise floor (–97 dBV) and 0.003% THD ensure transparency at extreme volumes
- ✓ Long battery life (1420 hours) minimizes maintenance during touring and recording
Why choose Seymour Duncan SPH90-1B Phat Cat Bridge Pickup(Nickel Cover)
- ✓ Warm, vintage midrange character with natural high-end roll-off suits jazz, blues, and indie genres
- ✓ Passive design requires no battery; moderate 8.49k output preserves dynamic feel and string articulation
- ✓ Vacuum wax potting eliminates microphonic feedback and squealing for clean performance at any volume
- ✓ Dual Alnico 2 magnets and nickel shielding provide balanced, noise-free tone in mixed-pickup setups
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either pickup in positions other than specified?
The AHB-1N is engineered specifically for neck position with a 750 Hz resonant frequency designed to maintain articulation at the neck; using it elsewhere may sacrifice tonal balance. The SPH90-1B is designed as a bridge pickup; using it in other positions is not recommended as its tonal character and output are tuned for bridge duty.
Do I need to replace a battery regularly with the Blackouts?
The AHB-1N's 9-volt battery lasts approximately 1420 hours of playing time, so regular touring or studio musicians may need to replace it every few months. The SPH90-1B is entirely passive and requires no battery.
Which pickup works better for lower tunings and heavy distortion?
The AHB-1N Original Blackouts is specifically designed for metal, drop tunings, and high-gain contexts, offering tight lows and controlled dynamics that remain clear at extreme volumes. The SPH90-1B is not suited for metal or thrash metal, as its warm, moderate-output character is optimized for jazz and blues.
How do the output levels differ?
The AHB-1N delivers 0.65V RMS average output with 16 dB preamp gain for substantial, aggressive signal suitable for high-gain setups. The SPH90-1B has moderate output tuned to 8.49k DC resistance, preserving dynamic feel and string articulation without overpowering the amplifier.