By Ed Malaker
Posted 02/09/2013
The Seymour Duncan SHPR-1s P-Rails is a P-90 and a Strat Pickup in a Humbucker-Sized Package. So, first things first: If you’re looking for a full-fledged humbucker, go out and buy a full-fledged humbucker. Just wanted to put the whole “…well, it’s not really a real humbucker” argument aside. This pickup is meant for folks who have a humbucker-fitted guitar, yet are looking to get P-90 and / or Strat tones out of it.
Some might say: “well, why don’t you just put a P-90 or a Strat pickup in the guitar?”
Answer: because some folks cannot or do not want to make such a change. Perfect examples would be a Les Paul or SG. These, if already routed for a humbucker, are not good candidates for further cutting.
So, if you have to stay with your humbucker-sized mounting, the SHPR-1s P-Rails from Seymour Duncan is lovely. All three of the sounds in this pickup are terrific. Keep in mind though, when you’re in “humbucker” mode (i.e. both coils in series), this one is not going to sound like a normal full-fledged humbucker. It’s not. You’ll still have that “Strat-ish” kind of sparkle and snap. But then again, that is what you came here for.
Keep in mind that you will need to get jiggy with a mini-toggle switch (double-pole / double-throw is probably your best bet) and a soldering iron. But let’s assume you can, or you know someone trustworthy to turn to. Once you pop these babies in and wire them up, you’re in for some pretty fun stuff. P-90 kinda stuff, Stratty bell-like charm, and fun combinations of both are on the menu. Of course, if you play a Les Paul Jr or a Strat, well then… duh! But if you are stuck with a mucho-macho humbucker-focused guitar and really want to get these two classic sounds under your fingertips, the Seymour Duncan SHPR-1s P-Rails set is a brilliant product that kills two birds with one stone.