'...this L-02 is simply too good to pass up for the money'.

Recently relaunched as Larrivée's 'entry level' guitars, the Larrivée 02 Series get their first review in Guitarist magazine this month where the Larrivée L-02 receives the Guitarist Choice award.

'Retailing, like the other new 02s, at £799 including case, the L-02 comes in over £200 cheaper than the equivalent L-03, yet the specification differences between these two satin-finish, all-solid sitka spruce/sapele instruments are minor'.

'A sense of easy access and fingering articulation is enhanced by the fingerboard's near-flat compound radius, something that's common to all Larrivées and allows a slinky buzz-free action all the way up the neck'.

'As an acoustic of dreadnought/small-jumbo proportions, the L-02 definitely does not disappoint. Volume and projection are sturdy, cross-string definition is clear and balanced, and though the attack sounds slightly taught the follow-through dynamics are supple and responsive, as is the sustain'.

'Initial tonal impressions are of a fairly brightly voiced instrument, but that would overlook the generous warmth that emerges from the low end, pleasing infusing the whole sound. It does this more noticeably the nearer you strum or pick towards the neck. In other words it's a guitar capable of expressive and varied subtleties, not just a one-sound box'.

'It is, without doubt, a bit of a bargain'.

You can read the full review in the October Issue (347) of Guitarist magazine or via the MusicRadar link below (Photography by Joby Sessions). The Larrivée 02 Series is available now at £799 RRP.

Further Links

• Full review at MusicRadar
• Larrivee 02 Series
• Guitarist Magazine