Gear article

Gear4music LA Left Handed Electric Guitar

The Gear4music LA Left Handed Electric Guitar is a full-sized, entry-level instrument designed for southpaw players. It is constructed with a lightweight paulownia body and a maple neck, featuring a classic triple single-coil pickup configuration to provide a versatile range of tones for beginners.

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Overview and Design

The Gear4music LA Left Handed Electric Guitar is designed as a foundational instrument for budding musicians. It follows a traditional double-cutaway silhouette, specifically mirrored for left-handed ergonomics. The choice of paulownia for the body ensures the guitar remains lightweight, which is beneficial for younger players or those who prefer standing for long practice sessions. The neck is crafted from maple, paired with a poplar laminate fretboard, providing a smooth surface for learning basic chords and scales.

Technical Specifications

The hardware configuration is centred around versatility. It features:

  • Pickups: Three single-coil pickups controlled by a 5-way selector switch.
  • Controls: One volume knob and two tone knobs.
  • Bridge: A traditional non-locking tremolo system.
  • Fretboard: 21 or 22 frets (standard full-size scale) on a poplar laminate surface.

The guitar is intended to be 'ready to play' out of the box, having been factory-strung and set up, requiring only a quick tuning check by the user.

Sound Character

Because of its triple single-coil layout, the LA Left Handed guitar offers a broad sonic palette. The bridge pickup provides a bright, piercing tone suitable for rock and lead lines, while the neck pickup offers the warmer, smoother characteristics associated with R&B, blues, and jazz. The 5-way switch allows for 'in-between' positions, producing the characteristic 'quack' and chime necessary for funk and pop styles.

Comparison and Alternatives

Within the Gear4music ecosystem, players may consider the 'LA Select' models, which often feature upgraded finishes or woods like ash. For those preferring a different aesthetic or heavier sound, the Brooklyn Left Handed or New Jersey Left Handed models offer humbucker configurations. For younger students with smaller frames, the 3/4 LA Left Handed variant provides a scaled-down version of the same design.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Gear4music LA Left Handed guitar suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is specifically designed as a 'player-friendly platform' for those starting their guitar journey. Its lightweight body and standard setup make it accessible for beginners to handle and play immediately.
What wood is used for the body of this guitar?
The body is crafted from lightweight paulownia. This wood is chosen for its resonant properties and low weight, making the guitar comfortable for extended use.
Does the guitar require a professional setup upon arrival?
The manufacturer states that the guitar arrives ready to play straight from the box. It is strung and set up as standard at the factory, though a quick tune-up is required before playing.
How many pickups does the LA guitar have?
It features three single-coil pickups. This is a classic configuration that allows for a wide variety of tonal options across different musical genres.
What genres can be played on the LA Left Handed guitar?
The guitar is versatile enough for many styles, including heavy rock, smooth R&B, jazz, and blues. The five-way switch allows users to experiment with different pickup combinations for various sounds.
What material is the fretboard made of?
The fretboard is made of poplar laminate. This material is used as a durable and sustainable alternative to traditional woods while maintaining a smooth playing feel.
Is this a full-sized guitar?
Yes, the Black Left Handed LA is a full-sized electric guitar. For those needing a smaller instrument, Gear4music also offers 3/4 size versions of the LA model.
Are there different colors available for the left-handed LA series?
While this specific model is finished in black, the LA series includes other variations such as the LA Select in Blue Metallic. Availability depends on current inventory for left-handed configurations.
What is the typical price range for this instrument?
The guitar typically retails around £70. This makes it one of the most affordable full-sized left-handed electric guitars on the market.
What neck material is used in its construction?
The guitar features a smooth maple neck. Maple is a standard industry choice known for its stability and comfortable feel for the player's fretting hand.
Does it come with an amplifier?
This specific product entry is for the standalone guitar. However, Gear4music offers various 'Accessory Packs' that include 10W or 15W amplifiers, such as the LA Select or 3/4 LA bundles.
How does this compare to the New Jersey Left Handed model?
The LA model uses three single-coil pickups for a brighter, more versatile sound. The New Jersey model typically features humbucker pickups and a different body shape, usually resulting in a thicker, warmer tone.