Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity Humbucker Bridge Pickup
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- Brand new in original box
- Full Seymour Duncan manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- 11014-05-RSPD
Description
Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity Humbucker Bridge Pickup
The Retro Antiquity bridge pickup captures the articulate, vintage-correct voice essential for tracking authentic rock tones in the studio. Built with Alnico II magnets and period-appropriate construction, this pickup translates 1950s design principles into modern recording sessions—delivering nuance and clarity without unnecessary coloration. The result sits naturally in a mix while maintaining character and historical credibility.
Tone & Output for Recording
A DC resistance of 8.6k ohms and 5.12 henries of inductance deliver moderate output with exceptional articulation across the frequency spectrum. The 15–20 gauss magnetic field strength preserves string definition and sustain without aggressive compression, responding faithfully to pick dynamics and playing technique during overdubs. This responsiveness yields consistent, tonally transparent recordings that translate across monitoring systems.
Construction & Specifications
Handcrafted in the United States, the Retro Antiquity features a nickel silver cover, 42 AWG plain enamel magnet wire, and a 2.5-inch Alnico II bar magnet that work in concert to minimize magnetic coupling and maximize clarity. The pickup ships with single-conductor push-back braided wire terminated in classic cloth braid, reflecting construction methods from the pickup's historical reference point.
Key Features
- Alnico II magnet for vintage-correct magnetic response
- 8.6k ohms DC resistance
- 5.12 henries inductance
- 2.38 Q Factor for articulate midrange definition
- 15–20 gauss magnetic field strength
- 42 AWG plain enamel magnet wire
- Nickel silver cover
- 2.5-inch Alnico II bar magnet
- Single-conductor lead wire with classic cloth braid
- Not wax potted for natural magnetic response
- Bridge position, 6-string configuration
- Manufactured in the United States
This bridge pickup pairs with vintage-style guitars and modern instruments alike, delivering the clarity and articulation needed for studio sessions that demand authentic 1950s tonality with measurable definition.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
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At a Glance
The Seymour Duncan Retro Antiquity is a bridge pickup engineered to capture the clear, articulate character of 1950s designs—ideal for recording blues, rock, and jazz where nuance and pick dynamics matter. Its 8.6k ohms DC resistance and Alnico II magnet yield moderate output with excellent frequency response and minimal compression, sitting naturally in a mix without fighting other instruments. Record with it for sessions demanding authentic vintage tone that translates across playback systems.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Blues
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Classic Rock
- ✓ Jazz
Not the best pick for
- – Metal
- – Djent
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and playing styles is this pickup best suited for?
The Retro Antiquity excels in blues, rock, classic rock, and jazz—styles that reward articulate, responsive tone and pick dynamics. It is not designed for metal or djent, where higher output and aggressive compression are typically preferred.
How does the output and tone compare to other vintage-style pickups?
With 8.6k ohms DC resistance and moderate output, it sits between lighter vintage designs and hotter alternatives. The Alnico II magnet and 15–20 gauss field strength prioritize clarity and string definition over compression, making it comparable to the Seymour Duncan '59, Fender Custom Shop 1959 Nickel Silver, and Gibson Burstbucker.
What's included and how is it wired?
The pickup ships with a single-conductor push-back braided lead wire terminated in classic cloth braid, reflecting original construction methods. It is not wax potted, allowing natural magnetic response.
Will this fit my guitar, and what is it made from?
This is a bridge position, 6-string humbucker with a nickel silver cover, 42 AWG plain enamel magnet wire, and a 2.5-inch Alnico II bar magnet. It integrates into standard humbucker cavities on vintage-style and modern instruments alike.
Is this pickup responsive to playing technique?
Yes—the 15–20 gauss field strength and moderate output make it highly responsive to pick dynamics and finger technique, preserving nuance without aggressive compression. It retains sustain while delivering clarity across the frequency spectrum.
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