11202-05-Cset-L vs 11202-08-Cset — Compare
Seymour Duncan SSL-5L Custom Staggered Strat CalSet Lft Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat Strat Calibrated Set Pickup
The SSL-5L is a single left-position pickup for players upgrading one slot, while the SSL-6 is a complete calibrated three-pickup set with matched output across all positions. Choose the SSL-5L for targeted replacement in an existing setup, or the SSL-6 for a cohesive full-set upgrade with hum reduction in two-pickup combinations.
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Seymour Duncan SSL-5L Custom Staggered Strat CalSet Lft Pickup
Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat Strat Calibrated Set Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SSL-5L Custom Staggered Strat CalSet Lft Pickup | Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat Strat Calibrated Set Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $247.00 | $247.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSL-5L Custom Staggered Strat CalSet Lft Pickup
- ✓ Budget-friendly single-pickup replacement option
- ✓ 13.3 kOhm resistance delivers enhanced output and presence
- ✓ Staggered pole pieces ensure even response across strings
- ✓ Hand-built California construction with premium Alnico 5 magnets
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat Strat Calibrated Set Pickup
- ✓ Complete three-pickup calibrated set ensures consistent output across neck, middle, and bridge positions
- ✓ Reverse-wound middle pickup reduces hum in standard two-pickup switching combinations
- ✓ Resonant peaks at 6.0 kHz and 4.8 kHz emphasize upper-midrange clarity for rock, country, and fusion
- ✓ Modern oval flatwork design tightens response with lower inductance
Frequently asked questions
What's the practical difference in output between these two?
The SSL-5L runs 13.3 kOhm DC resistance for enhanced punch in a single position. The SSL-6 calibrated set offers 6.6 kOhm (tapped middle) and 13.0 kOhm (full bridge/neck), meaning the pickups are matched to each other across the set rather than compared head-to-head as single units.
Which is better for a player doing a full Strat pickup swap?
The SSL-6 is designed specifically for complete replacement with all three pickups calibrated together, ensuring seamless tracking between positions. The SSL-5L is a left-position single and would require sourcing middle and bridge pickups separately.
Do either of these reduce hum, and does it matter?
The SSL-6's reverse-wound, reverse-polarity middle pickup reduces hum when using the standard two-pickup switching combinations (positions 2 and 4 on a five-way switch). The SSL-5L left pickup alone does not provide hum cancellation. Both are wax-potted for squeal-free performance in high-gain or live settings.
Which one suits country and funk better?
The SSL-6 is explicitly voiced for country, funk, and fusion with resonant peaks emphasizing upper-midrange presence and snap. The SSL-5L is tuned for rock and blues with articulate highs and defined midrange, making it less optimized for the snap required in funk and country styles.