11202-05-RwRp vs 11202-08-RwRp — Compare
Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered RWRP Pickup vs Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat for Strat RWRP Pickup
Both are budget-friendly RWRP middle-position pickups with identical DC resistance and Alnico V magnets, but they differ in magnet geometry and tonal character. The SSL-5 Custom Staggered offers reduced noise and tight highs ideal for blues and funk, while the SSL-6 Custom Flat prioritizes bright articulation and note separation better suited for rock and studio work.
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Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered RWRP Pickup
Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat for Strat RWRP Pickup
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered RWRP Pickup | Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat for Strat RWRP Pickup | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $89.00 | $89.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSL-5 Custom Staggered RWRP Pickup
- ✓ Staggered magnet design reduces noise more effectively
- ✓ Tighter, more focused highs
- ✓ Excellent for blues, funk, and indie applications
- ✓ Hand-ground Alnico V with wax potting for stability
Why choose Seymour Duncan SSL-6 Custom Flat for Strat RWRP Pickup
- ✓ Flat magnet pattern geometry for brighter overall tone
- ✓ Superior note separation and clarity
- ✓ Better for rock and studio production contexts
- ✓ Balanced output between classic and overwound designs
Frequently asked questions
What is the main tonal difference between staggered and flat magnet geometries?
Staggered magnets (SSL-5) produce tighter highs and reduced noise by varying pole-piece heights, while flat magnets (SSL-6) deliver brighter, more even output with superior note separation. Both use Alnico V, but geometry shapes the frequency response differently.
Are both pickups suitable for beginners?
The SSL-5 is rated for beginners through professionals. The SSL-6 starts at intermediate level, suggesting it benefits from more experienced players who can maximize its articulation and clarity in performance or recording.
Do both work in positions 2 and 4 on a 5-way Strat switch?
Yes, both feature reverse wound/reverse polarity (RWRP) construction specifically designed to cancel hum in positions 2 and 4 when paired with standard single-coils in positions 1, 3, and 5.
Which genre match is most important when choosing between these?
The SSL-5 excels in blues, funk, and indie; the SSL-6 is optimized for rock and studio sessions. If your primary genre isn't listed for either pickup, the SSL-5's noise rejection and tight character suits live performance, while the SSL-6's clarity favors recording.