Seymour Duncan SSL-3 Hot For Strat Pickup

The SSL-3 Hot delivers aggressive output and clarity in a compact single-coil format designed for modern rock and high-gain applications. This pickup balances the snap and definition of a traditional Strat single-coil with enough output to drive tube amps hard without losing articulation across the frequency range. Built with hand-ground Alnico 5 magnets and wax potting for stability, it handles distortion and overdrive with confidence while maintaining note separation.

Tone & Output Characteristics

The SSL-3 achieves its aggressive character through elevated output relative to vintage Strat pickups. With a DC Resistance of 8.8k (tapped) and 16.4k (full), the pickup responds with a resonant peak at 5.3kHz (tapped) and 4.4kHz (full), emphasizing upper midrange presence and cutting power in a band setting. This tuning favors bright, punchy tones without sacrificing warmth in the neck position.

Construction & Wiring Options

Each pickup features hand-ground Alnico 5 rod magnets that are lacquered for stability and consistency before winding and wax potting. The single conductor PVC cable provides straightforward installation, and the included white cover matches traditional Strat aesthetics. A tapped output option allows dual output levels from a single coil, and RW/RP (reverse wound, reverse polarity) middle pickup variants are available separately for hum canceling in positions 2 and 4 when paired with standard pickups in positions 1 and 3.

Key Features

• DC Resistance: 8.8k ohms (tapped) / 16.4k ohms (full)
• Resonant Peak: 5.3kHz (tapped) / 4.4kHz (full)
• Magnet Type: Alnico 5 rod magnets, hand-ground and lacquered
• Construction: Hand-wound and wax potted for stability
• Cable: Single conductor PVC
• White cover included
• Tapped version available for dual output levels
• RW/RP middle pickup option available for hum canceling in positions 2 and 4
• Single-coil format for traditional Strat compatibility
• Designed for high-gain and modern rock applications

The SSL-3 Hot brings modern output and presence to traditional Strat wiring, making it an excellent choice for players who need single-coil articulation with enough drive to cut through dense mixes.