11601-02 vs 11601-05 — Compare
Seymour Duncan S-7 Benedetto Pickup (Black) vs Seymour Duncan B-7 Benedetto Pickup (Black)
The S-7 is purpose-built for archtop guitars with floating pickup systems and preserves acoustic integrity, while the B-7 is a versatile 7-string humbucker that fits standard slots on any guitar. Choose the S-7 if you own a high-end archtop; choose the B-7 if you play a standard 7-string solid-body or semi-hollow instrument.
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Specs side by side
| Seymour Duncan S-7 Benedetto Pickup (Black) | Seymour Duncan B-7 Benedetto Pickup (Black) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.00 | $139.00 |
| Brand | Seymour Duncan | Seymour Duncan |
| Pickup Type | Any Position | Any Position |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Seymour Duncan S-7 Benedetto Pickup (Black)
- ✓ Floating mount design preserves archtop guitar structure and acoustic properties
- ✓ Low-profile construction integrates seamlessly with vintage and contemporary archtop aesthetics
- ✓ Engineered specifically for steel, nickel, and bronze strings including nylon-core applications
- ✓ Handcrafted with distinctive black-flamed Ebonova cover and Benedetto logo
Why choose Seymour Duncan B-7 Benedetto Pickup (Black)
- ✓ Fits any standard 7-string humbucker slot with mounting ring—no guitar modification needed
- ✓ 14.1K ohms DC resistance provides medium output for balanced clarity and sensitivity
- ✓ Neck or bridge position compatible for flexible placement
- ✓ Focused midrange and smooth harmonics ideal for jazz and fusion across all seven strings
Frequently asked questions
Which pickup is better for jazz 7-string guitars in general?
Both are voiced for jazz, but the B-7 is the general-purpose choice for standard 7-string instruments. The S-7 is engineered exclusively for archtop guitars with floating systems and will not fit standard humbucker slots. The B-7 works in any 7-string guitar, making it more universally applicable.
Can the B-7 replace the S-7 in an archtop?
No. The S-7's floating mount design is critical for archtop guitars because it preserves the instrument's structural integrity and acoustic properties. The B-7 requires a standard 7-string humbucker slot and mounting ring, which may require modification to an archtop and could compromise its acoustic character.
What is the key difference in output and tone character?
The B-7 has a specified 14.1K ohms DC resistance (medium output) with focused midrange clarity and note separation. The S-7 is optimized for harmonic complexity and refined acoustic amplification without specified ohm rating. The B-7 emphasizes controlled articulation for jazz-fusion clarity, while the S-7 prioritizes warmth and acoustic responsiveness.
Which pickup requires more specialized installation?
The S-7 requires proper floating mount installation with its underside flange and top-mounted screws to avoid altering the guitar's structure—typically requiring professional setup on archtops. The B-7 uses a standard 7-string humbucker mounting ring and fits any standard slot, making it straightforward for most setups.