11202-14 vs 11202-16 — Compare
Seymour Duncan Humbucker STL-3 Quarter Pound Pickup For Tele vs Seymour Duncan Humbucker STR-3 Quarter Pound Rhythm Pickup For Tele (Chrome Cover)
The STL-3 is a medium-hot, articulate pickup emphasizing brightness and harmonic warmth with reduced noise, while the STR-3 is a more aggressive rhythm-focused pickup with boosted midrange and low-end body for a thicker tone. Choose the STL-3 for classic Tele snap and versatility across blues, country, and indie; choose the STR-3 if you want a darker, punchier neck pickup anchored in hard rock and rock.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Seymour Duncan Humbucker STL-3 Quarter Pound Pickup For Tele
Seymour Duncan Humbucker STR-3 Quarter Pound Rhythm Pickup For Tele (Chrome Cover)
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan Humbucker STL-3 Quarter Pound Pickup For Tele | Seymour Duncan Humbucker STR-3 Quarter Pound Rhythm Pickup For Tele (Chrome Cover) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $89.00 | $89.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Series | Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound | Seymour Duncan Quarter Pound |
| Pickup Type | Any Position | Bridge |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan Humbucker STL-3 Quarter Pound Pickup For Tele
- ✓ Higher DC resistance (17.38K) delivers more output and sustain than the STR-3
- ✓ Hand-polished Alnico 5 magnets provide warm harmonic richness and vintage authenticity
- ✓ Wax-potted construction eliminates feedback and squeal for high-gain or live use
- ✓ Available for both neck and bridge positions with optional tapped dual-out flexibility
Why choose Seymour Duncan Humbucker STR-3 Quarter Pound Rhythm Pickup For Tele (Chrome Cover)
- ✓ Lower DC resistance (11.8K) and 3.5 kHz resonant peak create aggressive midrange cut-through
- ✓ EQ curve emphasizes bass (7) and treble (7) for body-forward, thicker rhythm tone
- ✓ Chrome-plated brass cover adds electromagnetic shielding and professional appearance
- ✓ Purpose-built for neck/rhythm position with controlled sustain ideal for rock and hard rock
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is hotter in output?
The STL-3 at 17.38K ohms is higher in DC resistance than the STR-3 at 11.8K ohms, giving it more output and sustain. However, the STR-3's aggressive midrange peak and EQ boost at 3.5 kHz make it sound punchier in the mix despite lower raw resistance.
Can both pickups work in neck and bridge positions?
The STL-3 is available for both neck and bridge positions with optional tapped configurations. The STR-3 is specifically engineered for the neck/rhythm position and is not recommended for bridge use.
Which is better for classic Telecaster tone?
The STL-3 preserves vintage Tele brightness and articulation while adding modern clarity and reduced noise, making it ideal for players seeking authentic tone with upgrades. The STR-3 intentionally departs from classic Tele voicing to deliver a thicker, more aggressive midrange character suited to rock and hard rock.
What is the main tonal difference?
The STL-3 emphasizes articulation, punchy single-coil character, and harmonic warmth across a balanced spectrum. The STR-3 prioritizes aggressive midrange punch and body-forward low end with controlled sustain, creating a darker, thicker rhythm voice.