Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra 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
- 11101-05-RZ
Description
Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra Pickup
The SH-1b '59 Model is a bridge humbucker engineered to deliver warm, articulate tones with natural breakup and responsive dynamics. In the studio or live context, this reverse zebra variant combines Seymour Duncan's vintage-inspired design with the visual appeal of contrasting coil wraps, offering the sonic character of a classic 1959 PAF with clarity and separation that cuts through a full mix.
Tone & Electronics
An Alnico V magnet paired with 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire creates a balanced output with defined highs and mids that translate well to recording. The reduced mud in the lows and natural compression under pick attack make it ideal for capturing clean articulation during tracking or sculpting presence during overdubs. The 8.2K DCR and vintage output level position this as a true bridge alternative to the original 1959 Gibson PAF, offering clarity and sustain without excessive aggression that can dominate recordings.
Construction & Stability
Vacuum wax potting eliminates microphonic feedback, ensuring consistent performance across multiple takes and session conditions. The long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate and vintage single-conductor braided push-back lead wire reflect construction quality designed for decades of reliable service, while USA manufacturing backs every unit with Seymour Duncan's reputation for consistency. This durability supports professional session work and archival-quality recordings.
Key Features
- Alnico V magnet for balanced, vintage-correct tone
- 42AWG plain enamel magnet wire handcrafted construction
- 8.2K DCR specification
- Vintage output level
- Vacuum wax potted for noise-free operation
- Long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate
- Vintage single-conductor braided push-back lead wire
- Reverse Zebra coil finish
- Humbucker mount configuration
- Bridge position design
- 6-string compatible
- Made in the United States
This pickup delivers authentic '59 character with proven reliability and tonal versatility across a wide range of amplifier settings and recording applications.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The Seymour Duncan SH-1b '59 Model Reverse Zebra captures the balanced, articulate character of a vintage '59 PAF in bridge position—ideal for recording sessions across blues, jazz, and classic rock where controlled output and natural compression keep tones clean and defined even under pick attack. Its 8.2K DCR and Alnico V magnet deliver reduced mud in the lows while preserving clarity in the highs and mids, making it versatile across a range of amplifier settings and recording chain configurations. Install this for authentic vintage tone that sits well in a mix without requiring heavy EQ compensation.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Blues
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Classic Rock
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Metal
- – Djent
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What amp types and genres work best with this pickup?
The SH-1b '59 excels in blues, jazz, classic rock, and studio sessions. Its balanced output and natural breakup respond well to both vintage tube amps and modern solid-states, though it is not voiced for metal or djent styles where higher output and aggressive tone shaping are typical.
How does this compare to the original Gibson 1959 PAF or other vintage pickups?
The SH-1b '59 is engineered as a direct bridge alternative to Gibson's original 1959 PAF, with an 8.2K DCR and Alnico V magnet that deliver comparable warmth and articulation. It offers clarity and sustain without the excessive aggression found in hotter aftermarket designs like the DiMarzio Super Distortion.
What does vacuum wax potting mean, and why does it matter?
Vacuum wax potting fills the coil to eliminate microphonic feedback—that squealing or ringing that can occur when a pickup picks up its own vibration. This ensures stable, noise-free operation in any playing or recording environment.
Is this pickup suitable for intermediate players, or do I need advanced skill?
The SH-1b '59 is designed for intermediate, advanced, and professional players. Its touch-sensitive character rewards refined pick control and playing dynamics, though installation requires routing a bridge humbucker slot or adapting to an existing cavity.
What is included, and what else will I need to install it?
The pickup arrives as a complete humbucker with long-legged nickel-silver bottom plate, vintage single-conductor braided push-back lead wire, and mounting hardware. Installation into a bridge position cavity may require soldering to your guitar's wiring harness; professional installation is recommended if you are unfamiliar with guitar electronics.
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