TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.




I really wanted to like G&L, but everytime I play an L-2000 I'm let down. They just don't play well in my hands and I've never been in love with the tone.
I love the design, the appearance and the features, but I just haven't found one that left me smiling.
That is the first time I have ever heard that, every single one I have ever played has been nothing short of fantastic.Now, if you know your instrument history, Leo Fender sold Fender in 1965, and worked for MusicMan (The StingRay was his biggest hit there) in the 70s, and when that didn't go as planned, he created G&L Guitars.
Last week, I played a $600 G&L 4 string bass. And all I can say is "Oh my god." It plays and sounds nicer than my Fender Deluxe Jazz. I was feeling ambitious, and tried a G&L guitar. Simply put: I'm getting rid of my Stratocaster, ASAP.
From what I've heard, G&L quality control is lacking. Though, from what I've played...I love it. Why is this company so awesome and not mainstream?
G&L makes exceptional instruments and, for the most part, the build quality and tones can be amazing bang for the buck. One of the best sounding basses I've ever heard was a friend's L1000. Having said that, the one and only G&L I ever had - an ASAT bass - was a lemon. Neck needed adjusting every other week, weighed a ton, balanced poorly, etc. I would never go as far as to say I'm writing off G&L completely, just that my first hand personal experience was not a good one.
I don't understand why they're not more popular either, especially considering it was once a Leo fender company. The only explanation I can come up with is they're a bit dull to look at aesthetically.
The L series have their own sound and it is a great, unique one, but it is NOT plug-and-play IMHO. For one thing, with the volume and tone dimed on these, it's often TOO big and just plain blurry. BUT, when you start experimenting with the controls and rolling things back, you will be rewarded.
Ditto. If anything, G&L is one of those few companies where I'm comfortable buying sight unseen online. Lemons are extremely rare. You'll find some variation in weight, but most play and sound great. I bought my used ASAT Semihollow fretless bass online and it's the pride of my collection.Originally Posted by hesham8
From what I've heard, G&L quality control is lacking. Though, from what I've played...I love it. Why is this company so awesome and not mainstream?
That is the first time I have ever heard that, every single one I have ever played has been nothing short of fantastic.
shoot...I can't find a tone that I DON'T like on my L-2000.