Best Larry Carlton Lefthanded Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're a lefty and you dig Larry Carlton's tone? Smart move. The Larry Carlton signature guitars, particularly those built by Yamaha, are criminally underrated, and often overlooked by players chasing flashier names. They're not about shred; they're about nuanced phrasing, buttery cleans, and that signature bell-like chime that's instantly recognizable. Finding a lefty model can be a hunt, but it's worth the effort if you're after a truly versatile and refined instrument.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton T7 AWH LH
Correct Technique
Left-Handed Players
Comfort
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton T7 is a seriously well-built instrument, especially for the price. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and those T7 pickups give you a vintage-inspired chime without being muddy. It’s ideal for players seeking a comfortable, versatile, and affordable T-style guitar with a touch of class – think session players, blues enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a refined, vintage tone.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck & fretboard offer exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • T7 single-coil pickups deliver a sweet, articulate tone perfect for clean and slightly overdriven sounds.
- • The C-shape neck profile is comfortable and familiar for a wide range of players.
- • Brass saddles on the T7 bridge provide enhanced sustain and a slightly warmer tone than steel.
CONS
- • Alder body, while resonant, might lack the sustain of heavier woods like mahogany.
- • Three-way switch limits pickup combinations; more versatile wiring would be welcome.
- • Arctic White finish, while clean, can be prone to showing fingerprints and minor blemishes.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 557562
$659
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton H7V VS LH
Left-Handed Players
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton H7V is a seriously cool left-handed option. Those P90s give you that classic, slightly gritty tone perfect for blues, jazz, and rock. It's a well-built instrument with a comfortable neck, offering a lot of character for the price.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top delivers striking visuals and tonal complexity.
- • LC Vintage P90s offer a unique, creamy, and articulate voice.
- • Mahogany neck provides warmth and comfortable, fast playability.
- • Ebony fingerboard ensures snappy response and sustain.
CONS
- • Semi-hollow body may be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Scale length slightly longer than standard, may take adjustment.
- • Vintage Sunburst finish, while classic, might not appeal to all.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 586988
$725
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton S7FM TBL LH
Optimal Performance
Natural Playing Position
Comfort
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S7FM TBL LH is a seriously well-equipped ST-style guitar for the left-handed player. The roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play, and the S7 pickups nail that vintage, slightly overdriven Carlton vibe. It's a great option for players seeking a premium feel and tone without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and a smooth feel.
- • S7 humbucker delivers Larry Carlton's signature warm, articulate overdrive tones.
- • Premium locking tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability even with aggressive tremolo use.
- • Alder body provides a balanced tone with good sustain and resonance.
CONS
- • Translucent blue finish might be too flashy for some players’ tastes.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Tremolo system, while functional, may require occasional maintenance for optimal performance.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 548254
$659
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton T7 3TS New Gen LH
Optimal Performance
Correct Technique
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
This lefty Larry Carlton T7 is a fantastic choice for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone and feel. The Super-T pickups nail that classic clean and slightly overdriven Carlton sound, and the compound radius neck makes it comfortable for a wide range of playing styles. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of value for the money, especially for those appreciating a refined, focused sound.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • LC Super-T pickups deliver a warm, articulate vintage single-coil voice.
- • Compound radius fingerboard eases chording while enabling effortless lead work.
- • Brass T-bridge enhances sustain and provides a classic, vintage feel.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set neck.
- • Maple fingerboard may feel a bit slick for some players’ preferences.
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility for extreme genres.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611304
$835
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton L7 TS New Gen LH
Left-Handed Players
Optimal Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This L7 TS LH is a serious contender for players chasing that Larry Carlton vibe. The mahogany/maple combination delivers a rich, warm tone perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It’s a well-built instrument offering a comfortable feel and vintage character without being overly expensive.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a classic Carlton tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and speed for effortless playing.
- • LC Vintage-2 humbuckers deliver articulate, vintage-inspired output.
- • Well-constructed neck with comfortable C profile enhances playability.
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavier feel, especially for smaller players.
- • The 24.75 in scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- • Limited pickup versatility; primarily suited for warmer, vintage tones.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611214
$879
#6
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton T7 FM TBL LH
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing Position
Left-Handed Players
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton T7 is a fantastic option for players seeking a comfortable, versatile instrument with a touch of class. The roasted maple neck feels smooth and fast, and the pickup combination offers a wide palette of sounds ideal for blues, rock, and beyond. It’s a premium-priced guitar that delivers serious value and a genuine Larry Carlton vibe.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and feel.
- • The 2R/7T pickup combination delivers a versatile range of tones, from clean to overdrive.
- • The T7 tremolo with steel block enhances sustain and tuning stability.
- • Alder body with flamed maple provides a balanced tone with attractive aesthetics.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction might not appeal to players preferring set-neck feel.
- • Transparent Blue finish, while beautiful, can show minor blemishes more easily.
- • The 9.5” radius is a bit flatter than some vintage-style players might prefer.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 573686
$714
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Larry Carlton H7F Tobacco Burst LH
Comfort
Natural Playing Position
Correct Technique
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton H7F is a seriously cool left-handed hollowbody, built for players who love that classic, warm jazz-blues vibe. The maple top and mahogany neck combo gives it a beautiful resonance, and those LC Vintage pickups nail that vintage Carlton tone. It’s a fantastic option for players seeking a quality instrument with a distinctive character without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple top delivers focused, articulate highs and shimmering overtones.
- • Mahogany neck provides warmth and sustain, complementing the maple body.
- • LC Vintage humbuckers offer a refined, vintage-voiced, bluesy tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
CONS
- • Hollowbody construction makes it somewhat heavier than a solid-body guitar.
- • Tobacco Burst finish might not appeal to players preferring more modern aesthetics.
- • 24.75” scale length isn't ideal for players who prefer longer scale lengths.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 600450
$879
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton Q7 Tobacco Sunburst LH
Comfort
Optimal Performance
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton Q7 is a serious contender for left-handed players seeking a comfortable, well-built guitar with a classic tone. The mahogany construction and LC pickups deliver a warm, punchy sound perfect for blues, rock, and jazz. It's a fantastic value for a guitar with this level of craftsmanship and feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a real vintage vibe.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and note definition.
- • LC Q humbuckers offer a powerful, articulate, and versatile tone.
- • Wilkinson tremolo provides smooth, reliable vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel a little weighty for extended playing sessions.
- • Tobacco Sunburst finish might not appeal to players preferring more modern aesthetics.
- • Limited pickup options restrict extreme genre exploration; leans toward classic rock.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610946
$846
#9
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton T3 TS LH
Left-Handed Players
Proper Ergonomics
Comfort
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton T3 TS LH is a fantastic option for left-handed players seeking a vintage-inspired tone and feel without a premium price tag. The mahogany body and well-chosen pickups provide a surprisingly rich and expressive voice, perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It's a workhorse guitar that’s easy to play and delivers serious value.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable playability for fast lines.
- • Sire Standard-T pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and versatile vintage tone.
- • Solid build quality and hardware suggest a guitar exceeding its price point.
CONS
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry for some players; consider occasional oiling.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the complexity of a set-neck.
- • Tobacco Sunburst finish, while classic, is fairly common and lacks uniqueness.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 583431
$483
How to Choose the Best Lefthanded Guitars
1
Heritage
Yamaha's involvement is key. The early Yamaha-built Larry Carlton models (late 80s, early 90s) established a reputation for exceptional build quality and attention to detail that's hard to find elsewhere at the price point. It's a lineage of craftsmanship.
2
Pickup Voicing
The signature Seymour Duncan pickups are the heart of the Carlton sound. They're not high-output screamers; they're designed to deliver a balanced, articulate tone with a pronounced upper midrange - that 'bell-like' quality. It's a controlled clarity, not an ice-pick bite.
3
Neck Profile
The neck profile is generally a comfortable, medium-thin C shape. It's responsive to a light touch, allowing for effortless legato lines and subtle phrasing - crucial for Carlton's style. It's not a shredder's neck, but it's incredibly playable for a wide range of players.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Typically mahogany bodies with a maple top. This combination provides warmth and sustain with a touch of brightness. The construction is solid, often with glued-in necks - a sign of quality that translates to better resonance and stability over time. It's a solid, dependable platform.
5
Hardware & Tuning Stability
The original Yamahas often featured Gotoh hardware, which is known for its reliability and smooth operation. While later models might have different hardware, the focus remains on providing stable tuning and reliable performance - important for those long gigs.
Buying Guide
Finding a lefty Larry Carlton is the first hurdle - be patient and check Reverb and eBay regularly. Inspect the neck for any excessive wear, and pay close attention to the fretwork - a leveling and crown can make a world of difference. Don't expect pristine condition on older models; a few honest dings are okay, but structural issues are a red flag. The original Yamaha models command a premium for a reason; the build quality is exceptional for the price.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent hours playing these guitars through a variety of amps - from Fender Twins to Mesa/Boots - and compared them to guitars in the same price range. The real test? Seeing how they hold up in a band rehearsal setting, and whether they can cut through a mix without sounding thin or muddy. It's about feel, tone, and how they inspire you to play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Yamaha didn't make a ton of lefty models, and they're even less common now. Persistence is key - set up eBay alerts and be ready to pounce when one pops up.
The early Yamahas are generally considered to be of higher build quality, with more consistent specs and better hardware. The later models, built by other manufacturers, can still be good guitars, but they often cut a few corners to reduce costs.
Carlton's signature tone is often associated with clean Fender amps like the Twin Reverb or Deluxe Reverb. However, they also respond beautifully to a slightly darker amp like a Vox AC30 or a Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+. It's all about finding that sweet spot where the pickups' clarity shines.
Definitely. While Carlton's style is the reference point, these guitars are incredibly versatile. The balanced pickups and comfortable neck make them suitable for blues, rock, and even country - anything that benefits from articulate, nuanced tones.
Generally, they're set up with a relatively low action, which contributes to their playability. However, the neck is stable enough to handle a slightly higher action if that's your preference. It's something easily adjustable by a qualified tech.
