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Seymour Duncan Apollo J-Bass, 5 Str, 70 Neck Pickup vs Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
The Apollo J-Bass is a 5-string bass pickup engineered for extended range and controlled low-end definition in funk and modern jazz, while the PAF Benedetto is a guitar humbucker voiced for warm, balanced archtop tone in traditional jazz and blues. Choose the Apollo if you play 5-string bass; choose the PAF Benedetto if you play jazz guitar.
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Seymour Duncan Apollo J-Bass, 5 Str, 70 Neck Pickup
Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan Apollo J-Bass, 5 Str, 70 Neck Pickup | Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $135.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | — | Any Position |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan Apollo J-Bass, 5 Str, 70 Neck Pickup
- ✓ Optimized for 5-string bass with 70mm spacing and extended-range humbucking design
- ✓ Linear design delivers controlled, articulate low-end and note separation ideal for funk and studio bass work
- ✓ Moderate 9.58k output preserves dynamics without overdriving preamps or amps
Why choose Seymour Duncan PAF Benedetto Pickup (Black or Nickel)
- ✓ Warm Alnico 5 bar magnet tone captures classic archtop jazz character
- ✓ 8.3k DC resistance balances clarity and sustain with natural instrument resonance
- ✓ 4-conductor lead wire enables split-coil and series/parallel switching for tonal versatility
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the PAF Benedetto on a bass?
No. The PAF Benedetto is designed as a guitar humbucker with standard humbucker mounting and 4-conductor guitar wiring. The Apollo J-Bass is specifically engineered for bass with 5-string spacing and bass-specific preamp integration.
Which pickup has higher output?
The PAF Benedetto at 8.3k ohms has slightly higher DC resistance than the Apollo J-Bass at 9.58k ohms, but both are moderate-output designs prioritizing clarity over raw volume. Output difference is minimal; tone character differs more.
Are both pickups hand-built and hum-canceling?
Yes. Both are hand-built at Seymour Duncan's Santa Barbara workshop and feature humbucking designs that cancel hum. The Apollo uses a linear coil-pair design; the PAF Benedetto uses a traditional bar magnet humbucker.
Which is better for studio recording?
Both excel in studio. The Apollo J-Bass suits bass tracking with controlled low-end and dynamics. The PAF Benedetto suits jazz guitar tracking with smooth midrange and note separation. Choice depends on your instrument and genre.