What is the body material of the LA Select?

The LA Select features a body made from ash, which is chosen for its balanced tone and premium feel compared to other budget woods.

What type of pickups are installed in this guitar?

It is equipped with three alnico single-coil pickups, which provide better clarity and versatility than standard ceramic magnets.

How many pickup positions are available?

The guitar includes a five-way selector switch, allowing players to choose between the bridge, middle, and neck pickups or specific combinations of them.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is marketed as an ideal 'next step' for players of all skill levels, offering an affordable entry point for those learning the instrument.

What is the neck and fretboard material?

Both the neck and the fretboard are made from maple, providing a bright tone and a smooth playing surface.

Can the LA Select be used for live performances?

According to the manufacturer, the guitar is built to handle everything from a first gig to more frequent professional use.

What musical genres is this guitar best for?

The three single-coil setup makes it highly versatile, suitable for genres such as classic rock, smooth blues, and pop.

How much does the Gear4music LA Select cost?

The typical price for this specific model is approximately £80, making it a very affordable option in the UK market.

How does the LA Select compare to the standard LA model?

The 'Select' version uses premium tonewoods like ash and upgraded alnico pickups, which are typically found on more expensive instruments.

Is the finish of the red model matte or glossy?

The Red LA Select model features a high-gloss finish that complements its premium tonewood construction.

Does this guitar come in a full-size or 3/4 size?

The LA Select is a full-size electric guitar, distinguishing it from smaller alternatives like the Stagg SES-30BK 3/4.

Who manufactures the LA Select?

The guitar is manufactured by and sold through the musical instrument retailer Gear4music.

Gear article

Gear4music LA Select Electric Guitar

The LA Select is a versatile electric guitar produced by Gear4music, designed to offer high-level features at an accessible price point of approximately £80. It features an ash body, a maple neck, and three alnico single-coil pickups, catering to players ranging from beginners to gigging musicians.

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Background and Design

The LA Select is part of Gear4music's expanded guitar range, positioned as an upgraded alternative to entry-level instruments. While it retains the classic double-cutaway silhouette familiar to players of the Fender Stratocaster, it distinguishes itself through the use of specific tonewoods and upgraded electronics. The model is presented in a glossy red finish, targeting both aesthetic appeal and physical durability for live performances.

Construction and Tonewoods

Unlike many budget instruments that utilise basswood or poplar, the LA Select features a body crafted from ash. This is paired with a bolt-on maple neck and a maple fretboard. This specific combination of tonewoods is selected to provide a balanced tonal profile and a comfortable, smooth feel across the length of the neck. The choice of ash is often associated with higher-end manufacturing, making it a standout feature at this price bracket.

Electronics and Hardware

The guitar is equipped with three alnico single-coil pickups. Alnico magnets are typically preferred over ceramic alternatives for their nuanced response and tonal clarity. These are managed via a five-way selector switch, allowing the player to access a variety of pickup combinations. The hardware setup is designed to facilitate a wide range of genres, including rock, blues, and pop.

Market Position and Comparison

The LA Select occupies a unique space in the market, priced similarly to the Squier Mini Stratocaster or Stagg SES-30BK, yet offering full-scale dimensions and 'Select' series specifications like ash bodies. While it does not carry the premium branding of a Fender American Professional II or a Gibson Les Paul Standard, it aims to provide a comparable 'pro-feel' for those moving on from their first instrument or seeking a reliable backup for the stage.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body material of the LA Select?: The LA Select features a body made from ash, which is chosen for its balanced tone and premium feel compared to other budget woods.
What type of pickups are installed in this guitar?: It is equipped with three alnico single-coil pickups, which provide better clarity and versatility than standard ceramic magnets.
How many pickup positions are available?: The guitar includes a five-way selector switch, allowing players to choose between the bridge, middle, and neck pickups or specific combinations of them.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is marketed as an ideal 'next step' for players of all skill levels, offering an affordable entry point for those learning the instrument.
What is the neck and fretboard material?: Both the neck and the fretboard are made from maple, providing a bright tone and a smooth playing surface.
Can the LA Select be used for live performances?: According to the manufacturer, the guitar is built to handle everything from a first gig to more frequent professional use.
What musical genres is this guitar best for?: The three single-coil setup makes it highly versatile, suitable for genres such as classic rock, smooth blues, and pop.
How much does the Gear4music LA Select cost?: The typical price for this specific model is approximately £80, making it a very affordable option in the UK market.
How does the LA Select compare to the standard LA model?: The 'Select' version uses premium tonewoods like ash and upgraded alnico pickups, which are typically found on more expensive instruments.
Is the finish of the red model matte or glossy?: The Red LA Select model features a high-gloss finish that complements its premium tonewood construction.
Does this guitar come in a full-size or 3/4 size?: The LA Select is a full-size electric guitar, distinguishing it from smaller alternatives like the Stagg SES-30BK 3/4.
Who manufactures the LA Select?: The guitar is manufactured by and sold through the musical instrument retailer Gear4music.