What is included in the LA Select Modern Blackout bundle?

The bundle includes a left-handed LA Select electric guitar in a 'Blackout' finish, a 15-watt guitar amplifier, and an accessory pack containing essential items for playing. It is designed to be a complete starter kit for musicians.

Is the guitar specifically built for left-handed players?

Yes, this model is a dedicated left-handed instrument. The body shape, bridge, and electronic controls are all oriented specifically for players who strum with their left hand and fret with their right.

What kind of pickups are installed in this model?

The guitar features two Wilkinson-designed humbucking pickups. These are known for providing higher output and less noise than single-coil pickups, making them ideal for heavier music styles.

What wood is used for the guitar body?

The body is made of basswood. Basswood is a popular choice for electric guitars because it is relatively lightweight and offers a rich, balanced tonal response.

What are the features of the included 15W amplifier?

The 15W amplifier includes both clean and overdrive channels. This allows players to switch between smooth, clear sounds for jazz or R&B and distorted, heavier tones for rock and metal.

What makes the 'Blackout' model different from the standard LA Select?

The Blackout model features a specific aesthetic theme characterized by an all-black finish, a satin black maple neck, and matching hardware. It also focuses on 'heavy tones' through its humbucker configuration.

What is thermally treated poplar laminate?

This is the material used for the fretboard. Thermal treatment (torrefaction) helps stabilize the wood and improve its durability, while the laminate construction provides a sustainable and consistent playing surface.

Can this guitar be used for genres other than heavy rock?

Yes, the manufacturer states the guitar and amp combination is versatile enough for smooth R&B and jazz when using the clean channel, despite its aggressive appearance.

What is the typical price for this guitar pack?

The typical price range for this specific Gear4Music bundle is approximately £140. This makes it an entry-level package aimed at providing value for new players.

How does the neck feel on this model?

The neck is made of maple with a satin black finish. This satin texture is intended to provide a comfortable, fast playing experience up and down the fretboard without the 'sticky' feel sometimes found on gloss necks.

How does this compare to the 3/4 size LA guitar packs?

Unlike the 3/4 models which are scaled down for younger or smaller players, this is a full-sized instrument. It offers a standard scale length and a larger body for a fuller sound and standard string tension.

What other left-handed models does Gear4Music offer?

Related left-handed models include the New Jersey (single-cut) style, the Brooklyn series, and the VISIONSTRING starter packs. There are also 'Select' versions in other colours like Blue Metallic.

Gear article

Gear4Music LA Select Modern Left Handed Electric Guitar Blackout Pack

The Gear4Music LA Select Modern Left Handed Electric Guitar Blackout is a complete entry-level performance bundle designed for left-handed players seeking heavy tones and a minimalist aesthetic. The package includes a humbucker-equipped electric guitar, a 15-watt practice amplifier, and a comprehensive set of accessories.

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Overview

The LA Select Modern Blackout is a specialised version of Gear4Music's double-cutaway 'LA' range, specifically tailored for left-handed musicians. Priced competitively at approximately £140, the pack is positioned as an all-in-one solution for beginners or intermediate players who require high-output hardware and a contemporary look. The 'Blackout' designation refers to its monochromatic aesthetic, featuring a black finish complemented by matching hardware.

Construction and Build

The guitar is constructed from a lightweight basswood body, a wood commonly chosen for its balanced tonal properties and physical comfort. The neck is made of maple with a smooth satin black finish, designed to facilitate movement across the fretboard. A notable feature is the use of thermally treated poplar laminate for the fretboard, which provides stability and a feel comparable to traditional hardwoods. The left-handed geometry ensures that all controls and the bridge assembly are correctly oriented for natural playability.

Electronics and Sound

Unlike standard S-style guitars that typically use single-coil pickups, the LA Select Modern Blackout is equipped with two Wilkinson-designed humbucking pickups (HH configuration). These pickups are engineered to reduce background noise and provide higher output, making the guitar particularly suited for high-gain styles such as heavy rock and metal.

The included 15-watt amplifier extends this versatility by offering two distinct channels: * Overdrive Channel: Designed for crunchy rock and aggressive heavy tones. * Clean Channel: Suitable for smoother genres including R&B, jazz, and pop.

Suitability and Applications

While the aesthetic and pickup configuration lean towards modern rock, the LA Select is marketed as a versatile tool for any point in a player's journey. It is particularly appropriate for students who need a full-scale instrument that accommodates their left-handed orientation without the need for modifications. The inclusion of the accessory pack—which typically comprises essentials like a gig bag, strap, and lead—makes it a turnkey solution for those starting from scratch.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Gear4Music ecosystem, this model sits above the standard LA series due to its 'Select' hardware, such as the Wilkinson pickups. For those seeking a different body style, the New Jersey Select (single-cut) provides a similar tier of quality, while the Brooklyn series offers a different aesthetic. Compared to smaller-scale options like the 3/4 LA or 3/4 New Jersey models, this full-sized LA Select provides a standard scale length and fuller resonance, making it more suitable for adult players and serious learners.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the LA Select Modern Blackout bundle?: The bundle includes a left-handed LA Select electric guitar in a 'Blackout' finish, a 15-watt guitar amplifier, and an accessory pack containing essential items for playing. It is designed to be a complete starter kit for musicians.
Is the guitar specifically built for left-handed players?: Yes, this model is a dedicated left-handed instrument. The body shape, bridge, and electronic controls are all oriented specifically for players who strum with their left hand and fret with their right.
What kind of pickups are installed in this model?: The guitar features two Wilkinson-designed humbucking pickups. These are known for providing higher output and less noise than single-coil pickups, making them ideal for heavier music styles.
What wood is used for the guitar body?: The body is made of basswood. Basswood is a popular choice for electric guitars because it is relatively lightweight and offers a rich, balanced tonal response.
What are the features of the included 15W amplifier?: The 15W amplifier includes both clean and overdrive channels. This allows players to switch between smooth, clear sounds for jazz or R&B and distorted, heavier tones for rock and metal.
What makes the 'Blackout' model different from the standard LA Select?: The Blackout model features a specific aesthetic theme characterized by an all-black finish, a satin black maple neck, and matching hardware. It also focuses on 'heavy tones' through its humbucker configuration.
What is thermally treated poplar laminate?: This is the material used for the fretboard. Thermal treatment (torrefaction) helps stabilize the wood and improve its durability, while the laminate construction provides a sustainable and consistent playing surface.
Can this guitar be used for genres other than heavy rock?: Yes, the manufacturer states the guitar and amp combination is versatile enough for smooth R&B and jazz when using the clean channel, despite its aggressive appearance.
What is the typical price for this guitar pack?: The typical price range for this specific Gear4Music bundle is approximately £140. This makes it an entry-level package aimed at providing value for new players.
How does the neck feel on this model?: The neck is made of maple with a satin black finish. This satin texture is intended to provide a comfortable, fast playing experience up and down the fretboard without the 'sticky' feel sometimes found on gloss necks.
How does this compare to the 3/4 size LA guitar packs?: Unlike the 3/4 models which are scaled down for younger or smaller players, this is a full-sized instrument. It offers a standard scale length and a larger body for a fuller sound and standard string tension.
What other left-handed models does Gear4Music offer?: Related left-handed models include the New Jersey (single-cut) style, the Brooklyn series, and the VISIONSTRING starter packs. There are also 'Select' versions in other colours like Blue Metallic.