11201-01-Cset vs 11201-01-Cset-L — Compare
Seymour Duncan SSL-1 Vintage Staggered for Strat Calibrated Set Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SSL-1L Vintage Staggered Lft Calibrated Set Pickup
The SSL-1 is a standard right-handed set for players of any skill level seeking classic Strat tone without hum, while the SSL-1L is specifically designed for left-handed players and includes matched potentiometers and capacitors for simplified installation. Choose the SSL-1 if you play right-handed; choose the SSL-1L only if you play left-handed.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan SSL-1 Vintage Staggered for Strat Calibrated Set Pickup
Seymour Duncan SSL-1L Vintage Staggered Lft Calibrated Set Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SSL-1 Vintage Staggered for Strat Calibrated Set Pickup | Seymour Duncan SSL-1L Vintage Staggered Lft Calibrated Set Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $247.00 | $247.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSL-1 Vintage Staggered for Strat Calibrated Set Pickup
- ✓ Standard right-handed magnet stagger for the vast majority of players
- ✓ Identical tonal character and construction to SSL-1L at the same price
- ✓ Works with any standard Strat wiring and controls
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSL-1L Vintage Staggered Lft Calibrated Set Pickup
- ✓ Optimized magnet stagger for left-handed fretboard geometry and string-to-string response
- ✓ Includes matched potentiometers and capacitors for seamless plug-and-play installation
- ✓ Eliminates guesswork in component selection for left-handed guitars
Frequently asked questions
What's the actual tonal difference between these two pickups?
There is no tonal difference—both feature identical 6.5 kΩ DC resistance, 10 kHz resonant peak, 5/3/9 EQ curve, hand-ground Alnico 5 magnets, and heavy Formvar wire. The only functional difference is magnet stagger orientation, which is optimized for left-handed string spacing in the SSL-1L.
Do I need the matched potentiometers included with the SSL-1L?
Only if you play left-handed and want simplified installation. The SSL-1L includes matched pots and capacitors to ensure consistent response across all three pickups without requiring separate component sourcing. Right-handed players using the SSL-1 can use any standard quality potentiometers and capacitors.
Can I use the SSL-1L in a right-handed guitar or vice versa?
Technically yes, but not recommended. The SSL-1L magnet stagger is optimized for left-handed string geometry; using it in a right-handed guitar will result in uneven string-to-string response, with some strings sounding weaker than others.
Are both suitable for beginners?
The SSL-1 is listed for beginner through professional skill levels. The SSL-1L is listed for intermediate and above, likely because left-handed guitar players are typically more experienced or have already established their needs.