Gear article

Gear4music Brooklyn Select Electric Guitar

The Gear4music Brooklyn Select is a full-sized electric guitar designed to offer a versatile playing experience and retro aesthetics at an entry-level price point. It features a lightweight poplar body and two humbucking pickups, catering primarily to students and collectors seeking a cost-effective instrument.

Gear4Music Brooklyn Select Electric Guitar by Gear4music Black
Gear4Music Brooklyn Select Electric Guitar by Gear4music Black
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Overview

The Brooklyn Select Electric Guitar by Gear4music is a solid-body instrument that prioritises ergonomics and visual appeal. Finished in a glossy black, the guitar is designed with a lightweight poplar body intended to reduce physical strain during long practice sessions. The instrument arrives from the manufacturer pre-strung and set up, intended to be playable immediately after a standard tuning adjustment.

Design and Construction

The guitar utilizes a combination of traditional tonewoods and contemporary alternatives to achieve its price point. The neck is constructed from maple with a high-gloss finish, paired with a laurel fretboard. The body is made from poplar, which is known for its lighter weight compared to alder or mahogany, making it an accessible choice for younger players or those who prefer a less heavy instrument.

Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster Black
Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster Black

Electronics and Sound

Equipped with two humbucking pickups, the Brooklyn Select is designed for noise reduction and high-output performance. These pickups are controlled via a three-way selector switch, allowing the player to toggle between the bridge, neck, or a combination of both. This configuration is versatile enough to handle genres ranging from clean pop and jazz to heavier rock and modern distorted tones.

Target Audience

This model is primarily marketed toward 'budding guitarists' who require a player-friendly platform to begin their learning journey. However, its 'Brooklyn' retro styling and specific pickup configuration also make it a viable option for established guitarists looking to expand a collection with a budget-friendly secondary instrument.

Market Comparison

While the Brooklyn Select occupies a similar entry-level space as the Squier Mini Stratocaster or the Stagg SES-30BK, it offers a full-scale playing experience rather than a reduced 3/4 size. It serves as a functional alternative to high-end professional models like the Fender American Professional II or Gibson Les Paul Standard, providing the basic humbucker functionality and aesthetic without the premium cost associated with those brands.

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Frequently asked questions

What body material is used for the Brooklyn Select?
The guitar features a lightweight poplar body, which provides a comfortable weight for the player while maintaining durability.
What type of pickups does this guitar have?
The Brooklyn Select is equipped with two humbucking pickups. These are designed to provide a thick, powerful sound with less background noise than single-coil pickups.
Is the guitar suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is specifically described as an ideal platform for budding guitarists due to its comfortable design and ease of play.
Does the guitar require a professional setup upon arrival?
The manufacturer states the guitar arrives set-up and pre-strung as standard. The user only needs to perform a quick tune-up before playing.
What is the neck finish on the Brooklyn Select?
The neck is made of maple and features a glossy finish for a smooth playing feel.
How many pickup switching positions are available?
The guitar includes a three-way selector switch. This allows the player to choose between the bridge pickup, the neck pickup, or both together.
What material is the fretboard made from?
The fretboard is constructed from laurel, a common and sustainable alternative to rosewood that offers similar tonal properties.
What genres of music can this guitar play?
Due to its humbucker configuration, it is highly versatile. It can handle everything from clean modern tones to heavy rock styles.
Is this a full-sized guitar?
Yes, the Brooklyn Select is a full-sized electric guitar, unlike 3/4 scale models intended solely for children.
What is the typical price range for this model?
The guitar typically retails for approximately £130, making it an affordable entry-level instrument.
What is the aesthetic style of the Brooklyn Select?
The guitar is designed with a 'compelling retro look,' featuring a classic black finish and traditional body contours.
How does the weight of this guitar compare to others?
Because it uses a poplar body, it is generally lighter than guitars made from denser woods like mahogany, aiding player comfort.