11106-37-B-7Str vs 11405-46 — Compare
Seymour Duncan AHB-1B Blackouts 7-String Phase 2 Bridge Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup
The AHB-1B Blackouts is a 7-string active bridge pickup built for metal and high-gain genres with extended frequency response, while the SSB-5N is a 5-string passive neck pickup designed for funk, jazz, and rock with balanced, transparent tone. Choose the Blackouts for modern extended-range metal; choose the SSB-5N for traditional bass styles and studio work.
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Seymour Duncan AHB-1B Blackouts 7-String Phase 2 Bridge Pickup
Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan AHB-1B Blackouts 7-String Phase 2 Bridge Pickup | Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Bridge | Neck |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan AHB-1B Blackouts 7-String Phase 2 Bridge Pickup
- ✓ Active design with 9V amplification for extended treble and tight lows in high-gain settings
- ✓ Direct EMG 707 retrofit with quick-connect system—no soldering required
- ✓ Engineered specifically for 7-string extended-range tunings and dense mix clarity
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSB-5N Passive Soapbar 5-String Neck Pickup
- ✓ Passive design requires no batteries or power supply
- ✓ Balanced, articulate tone with controlled mids—ideal for funk, jazz, and rock
- ✓ Direct EMG 40 sized drop-in replacement with straightforward two-conductor wiring
Frequently asked questions
Can these pickups be mixed—one of each in the same instrument?
No. The AHB-1B is designed only for 7-string bridge position and requires active circuitry. The SSB-5N is a 5-string neck pickup. They are incompatible in the same instrument and serve different instrument types entirely.
Which pickup requires more maintenance or has power concerns?
The AHB-1B requires a 9V battery for active operation, so you'll need periodic battery changes. The SSB-5N is fully passive and requires no power source, making it maintenance-free in that regard.
Are both direct retrofits for existing guitars?
Yes, but for different setups. The AHB-1B drops into EMG 707 cavities on 7-strings without rewiring. The SSB-5N fits EMG 40 sized slots on 5-string basses with standard two-conductor wiring. Check your current cavity size before purchasing.
Which sounds better for heavy music?
The AHB-1B Blackouts is engineered for metal, djent, and hard rock with scooped mids and articulate high-gain clarity. The SSB-5N is specifically marked as not ideal for metal and is voiced for balanced, transparent tone unsuitable for heavy genres.