Gear article
Tanglewood TRU4CEAWLH Reunion Pro Series
The Tanglewood TRU4CEAWLH is a left-handed Super Folk electro-acoustic guitar featuring a solid spruce top and figured black walnut back and sides. Designed for both stage and studio use, it integrates Tanglewood’s Premium Plus EQ system to provide precise tonal control and a natural amplified character.
See live pricesOverview
The Tanglewood TRU4CEAWLH belongs to the Reunion Pro Series, a line noted for blending traditional tonewoods with modern aesthetic touches. This specific model is a dedicated left-handed version of the Super Folk cutaway design. It is defined by its use of figured black walnut for the body, which provides a distinct visual grain pattern, and a solid spruce top that ensures the instrument matures tonally over time. The guitar is finished in a natural satin, complemented by traditional herringbone binding.
Design and Build
The 'Super Folk' body shape is a proprietary Tanglewood design that is slightly smaller and narrower than a traditional Dreadnought. This makes it more ergonomic for smaller players or those who prefer a more intimate feel during performances. Despite the reduced size, the combination of a solid spruce top and walnut back allows for significant projection. The cutaway design provides easier access to the higher frets, making it suitable for melodic lead playing as well as rhythm work.
Electronics and Sound
For live performance, the TRU4CEAWLH is equipped with the Tanglewood Premium Plus EQ system. This onboard preamp is designed to replicate the guitar's acoustic resonance without the 'quack' often associated with cheaper piezo systems. It offers specific controls for EQ adjustment, allowing the player to tailor their sound to the room's acoustics. The inherent sound profile is described as bright and balanced, where the spruce provides crisp highs and the walnut adds a firm, clear low-mid response.
Comparison to Alternatives
In the mid-range electro-acoustic market, the TRU4CEAWLH occupies a specific niche for left-handed players. Compared to travel-sized options like the Yamaha APXT2 or the Martin LX1E, it offers a fuller, more traditional acoustic resonance due to its larger Super Folk body. While it lacks the massive projection of jumbo models like the Gretsch G5022CWFE or Guild F-2512E, it is significantly more manageable for standing performances. In contrast to high-end boutique instruments like the Taylor Presentation PS14ce, it provides a professional-grade specification at a more accessible price point of approximately £349.
Related gear
£211.00 ($268)Yamaha
Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Electro Acoustic Black
£549.00 ($697)Martin
Martin LX1E Little Martin Electro Acoustic
£619.00 ($786)Gretsch
Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon Jumbo Electro Acoustic Guitar
£216.50 ($275)Yamaha
Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Electro Acoustic Old Violin Sunburst
£549.00 ($697)Guild
Guild F-2512E Jumbo Electro Acoustic Guitar Natural
£629.00 ($799)Sigma
Sigma DTC-28HE Electro Acoustic
£319.00 ($405)Fender
Fender Newporter Player Electro Acoustic Tidepool
£7,999.00 ($10,159)Taylor Guitars
Taylor Presentation PS14ce Electro Acoustic Honduran Rosewood/Adirondack Spruce #1210053075
Frequently asked questions
- What body shape is the Tanglewood TRU4CEAWLH?
- The guitar uses Tanglewood's Super Folk shape. This is a compact, cutaway design that balances comfort with effective acoustic projection.
- Is the top of the guitar solid or laminate?
- This model features a solid spruce top. Solid tops are generally preferred over laminates because they offer better resonance and improve in tone as the wood ages.
- Which tonewoods are used for the back and sides?
- The back and sides are constructed from figured black walnut. This wood provides a striking visual aesthetic alongside a bright and balanced tonal character.
- Is this guitar suitable for right-handed players?
- No, the TRU4CEAWLH is specifically built for left-handed players. It features a reversed body cutaway and internal bracing optimized for left-handed orientation.
- What electronics are included with this model?
- The guitar is fitted with the Tanglewood Premium Plus EQ system. This preamp includes controls for volume and EQ to manage the guitar's sound when plugged into an amplifier or PA system.
- What is the finish on the TRU4CEAWLH?
- The guitar features a natural satin finish. This provides a smooth, non-reflective look and feel, allowing the wood to vibrate more freely than thick gloss finishes.
- Does the guitar have any decorative binding?
- Yes, it is styled with herringbone binding. This traditional design element outlines the body and adds a classic aesthetic to the modern Super Folk shape.
- What kind of sound can I expect from the spruce and walnut combination?
- The combination typically produces a bright, clear, and balanced tone. The spruce provides the high-end clarity while the walnut offers a tight and defined low-to-mid range.
- Where is this guitar best utilised?
- Due to its Super Folk shape and onboard electronics, it is ideal for both stage performances and studio recording. Its size makes it particularly comfortable for live use.
- How does the size compare to a standard Dreadnought?
- The Super Folk shape is more compact and curved than a Dreadnought. It is easier to hold but still designed to offer enough volume for unamplified practice.
- What is the typical price for the Tanglewood TRU4CEAWLH?
- The typical price range for this model is approximately £349. This places it in the competitive mid-range market for serious students and gigging musicians.
- Does this model include a cutaway?
- Yes, the TRU4CEAWLH features a cutaway in the body. This allows the player to reach the higher frets on the neck more easily.
