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Lag Sauvage A Auditorium Acoustic Guitar

The Lag Sauvage A is an auditorium-style steel-string acoustic guitar distinguished by its eco-conscious construction and modern aesthetic. Utilising certified BrankoWood and smoked eucalyptus, the instrument is designed to provide a warm, balanced tone for both live performance and studio applications.

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Overview

The Lag Sauvage A (often referred to as the Sauvage ACE) is part of LAG Guitars' Sauvage series, which emphasises sustainability and distinctive visual appeal. The guitar is a steel-string electro-acoustic model that sits in the mid-range price bracket, aimed at players who require a reliable instrument for varied playing styles. It features a cutaway design to allow better access to the upper frets and uses specialized wood treatments to achieve its signature look.

Construction and Key Features

The primary innovation in the Sauvage series is the use of eco-certified BrankoWood. This material undergoes a specific treatment process to enhance stability and tonal response. The back and sides are crafted from smoked eucalyptus, contributing to the instrument's dark, rustic aesthetic. A notable design feature is the rounded back, which is engineered to improve acoustic projection and structural integrity without the need for traditional heavy bracing. The guitar is finished with a natural, open-pore texture that highlights the wood grain.

Electronics and Performance

For live use, the Sauvage A is equipped with the StageLag preamp system. This onboard unit provides essential tone-shaping controls, allowing the player to adjust the output to suit different amplification environments. The auditorium body shape offers a compromise between the volume of a dreadnought and the comfort of a smaller concert guitar, making it suitable for both fingerstyle and rhythmic strumming.

Sound Profile

The combination of the auditorium body and the choice of smoked eucalyptus results in a warm, balanced sound. The rounded back design assists in pushing sound forward, giving the guitar a larger presence than its physical dimensions might suggest. The BrankoWood top is designed to deliver a consistent, expressive tone that responds well to dynamic playing, providing clear note definition across the frequency spectrum.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to other guitars in the £300–£400 range, the Lag Sauvage A stands out for its environmental focus. While the Yamaha CG142S offers a traditional nylon-string experience, the Sauvage A is a modern steel-string alternative. It competes with the Hartwood Sonata Grand Auditorium in terms of body shape and versatility, though it differentiates itself with the unique StageLag electronics and the specific use of treated eucalyptus rather than standard laminates found in budget models like the Gear4Music Single Cutaway.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body shape of the Lag Sauvage A?
The Lag Sauvage A features an Auditorium body shape. This design is slightly narrower than a dreadnought, offering a comfortable fit for the player while maintaining a balanced tonal output.
Does the Lag Sauvage A include a cutaway?
Yes, this model features a cutaway design. This allows the player to reach the higher frets on the fingerboard more easily, which is beneficial for lead playing and complex chords.
What material is used for the guitar's top?
The guitar uses eco-certified BrankoWood for its top. This is a specially treated wood designed to mimic the properties of rare tonewoods while maintaining sustainable manufacturing standards.
What are the back and sides made from?
The back and sides are constructed from smoked eucalyptus. This material provides a warm sound and a unique, dark aesthetic that defines the Sauvage series.
What electronics are included with the guitar?
The instrument is equipped with the StageLag preamp system. This system allows for easy amplification and includes controls for shaping the guitar's tone for live performances.
What is the significance of the rounded back?
The rounded back is designed to enhance sound projection. By curving the back of the guitar, the manufacturer aims to increase the volume and richness of the sound without adding bulk.
Is the Lag Sauvage A suitable for beginners?
Yes, its comfortable auditorium body and natural playability make it a good choice for beginners. However, its features and price point also make it suitable for intermediate players looking for a reliable stage instrument.
How does the price of the Sauvage A compare to other LAG models?
The Sauvage A typically retails around £335. This places it in the mid-range of the market, offering a step up in materials and electronics compared to entry-level student guitars.
Can this guitar be used for fingerstyle playing?
Yes, the auditorium shape and balanced tone are well-suited for fingerstyle. The BrankoWood top provides the necessary responsiveness to handle light touches and intricate playing.
What kind of finish does the guitar have?
The guitar features a natural finish that showcases the wood's texture. The use of smoked eucalyptus and BrankoWood gives it a rustic, organic appearance compared to high-gloss models.
How does it compare to the Hartwood Sonata Grand Auditorium?
Both share similar body dimensions, but the Lag Sauvage A focuses on sustainable BrankoWood and unique aesthetics. The Hartwood Sonata often uses different wood combinations and aesthetic appointments like charcoal stains.
Does the Lag Sauvage A require a specific type of strings?
It is a steel-string acoustic guitar and should be used with standard acoustic guitar strings. Using nylon strings is not recommended as the instrument is braced for the higher tension of steel.