Best Larry Carlton Single Cut Guitars 2026
Okay, let's talk Larry Carlton Single Cuts. These aren't just guitars; they're a direct line to the sound of a legend. If you're chasing that warm, articulate, and effortlessly cool tone Carlton made famous - the kind that sits perfectly in a pocket, even with a busy rhythm section - then you need to understand what makes these guitars tick. We're not talking about a generic signature model here; this is a lineage of instruments built around a very specific vision.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
⚡ The best single cut guitars in 2026 are Larry Carlton L7 Dx Tobacco Sunburst (top pick), Larry Carlton L7 New Gen Amber Burst for tighter budgets, and Larry Carlton I5L Natural Satin for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $580–$930, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Larry Carlton L7 Dx Tobacco Sunburst
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Classic Rock
Jazz
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a well-built workhorse with a warm mahogany body and smooth ebony neck. The Tusq nut and locking tuners make it reliable for daily playing, while the humbuckers give it a thick, rock-ready sound. It suits players who want a classic single-cut shape without extra bells and whistles.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body with flamed maple top for warmth
- • Tusq XL nut reduces string breakage and improves tuning stability
- • C neck profile offers comfortable playability for most hands
- • LC Custom-2 humbuckers deliver thick, classic rock tone
CONS
- • No string tree or compensation mentioned on bridge
- • Weight is not listed, likely heavy for long sessions
- • Missing detailed electronics specs beyond basic controls
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635372
$930
Larry Carlton L7 New Gen Amber Burst
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Metal
Jazz
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a solid mahogany block wrapped in a pretty maple top. The Tusq nut helps strings speak up, and the coil split buttons let you change textures on the fly. It suits players who want a classic single-cut shape but need a bit more output from their pickups.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top adds striking visual depth to the body
- • Tusq XL nut reduces string noise and improves sustain
- • Coil split switches give versatile tone shaping options
- • Mahogany body and set neck offer solid resonance
CONS
- • Heavy 24.76 scale length may feel long to some players
- • No electronics diagram provided to verify wiring layout
- • Cream pickguard is less durable than black or white options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635381
$756
Larry Carlton I5L Natural Satin
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Hard Rock
Rock
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton I5L is a seriously cool guitar, built for players who love that classic, warm, and articulate tone. The ash body and Lipstick pickups give it a real vintage vibe, perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It’s a well-made, comfortable instrument that offers exceptional value for the money.
PROS
- • Ash body delivers a resonant, warm tone with excellent sustain.
- • LC Lipstick pickups provide a unique, vintage-voiced single-coil character.
- • Maple neck with a comfortable C-shape profile promotes effortless playability.
- • Tune-O-Matic bridge and vintage-style tuners ensure stable tuning and intonation.
CONS
- • Ash bodies can be somewhat prone to finish checking with age and temperature changes.
- • The 24.75 in scale length might feel a bit cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Limited pickup options restrict versatility for more modern or extreme genres.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 614569
$646
Larry Carlton I5S Tobacco Sunburst
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Classic Rock
Metal
Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton I5S is a seriously good-playing, well-voiced guitar for the money. The C-shape neck and those LC pickups give it a vintage vibe with modern clarity—perfect for blues, country, and classic rock players who want a responsive and reliable instrument without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a resonant, balanced tone with great sustain
- • LC Super-ST pickups deliver a surprisingly versatile, articulate sound
- • Maple neck and fingerboard offer a snappy feel and bright attack
- • Sire Modern tremolo allows for expressive vibrato without tuning instability
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction might lack the warmth of a set neck for some players
- • Tobacco Sunburst finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints
- • The 3-way switch limits pickup combinations compared to a 5-way
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610974
$744
Larry Carlton I5T Candy Apple Red
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Classic Rock
Metal
Blues
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton I5T is a seriously cool guitar. It nails that vintage vibe, especially for players digging blues, jazz, and classic rock tones. The pickup combination is surprisingly flexible, and the overall feel is just fantastic for the money.
PROS
- • Ash body delivers resonant, focused tone with good sustain
- • LC Super-T/P90 combo offers a surprisingly versatile range of sounds
- • Maple neck provides comfortable playability and a snappy feel
- • Bolt-on neck construction contributes to a bright, articulate response
CONS
- • Candy Apple Red finish might be a bit too flashy for some players
- • Bolt-on neck, while contributing to brightness, lacks the sustain of a set-neck
- • Limited pickup options restrict extreme high-gain or scooped tones
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610950
$697
Larry Carlton I5T Butterscotch
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Rock
Blues
Metal
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton I5T is a seriously cool guitar – a real throwback vibe with modern playability. The pickup combination is surprisingly versatile, going from sweet cleans to gritty overdrive effortlessly. It's a fantastic option for players seeking a vintage-inspired feel and tone without the premium price tag, especially those into blues, jazz, and classic rock.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a resonant, lively tone with excellent sustain
- • LC Super-T/P90 combo delivers a versatile range of warm to biting sounds
- • Maple neck with a comfortable C profile suits a wide range of playing styles
- • Bone nut enhances tuning stability and provides a smooth feel at the first fret
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits the sustain compared to set-neck designs
- • Butterscotch finish, while attractive, can be prone to nitrocellulose checking with age
- • Limited pickup options restrict tonal flexibility for some players
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610947
$674
Larry Carlton L7 Dx Amber Burst
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Jazz
Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and maple top. The custom humbuckers give you a thick sound, and the coil split button adds brightness when you need it. It suits players who want a classic single-cut shape without the high price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body with flamed maple top adds warmth and sparkle
- • Two LC Custom-2 humbuckers deliver thick, powerful tone
- • Push-pull coil split lets you access bright single-coil sound
- • Graph Tech TUSQ XL nut protects your strings from wear
CONS
- • No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
- • Fretboard radius is standard 12 inches for some players
- • Amber burst finish may show fingerprints easily
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635334
$930
Larry Carlton L5 Black
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Jazz
Hard Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels great with its maple neck and rosewood fretboard. The mahogany body makes the sound warm and full. It is perfect for players who want a solid, reliable instrument without extra bells and whistles.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body delivers warm, punchy tone
- • Maple neck provides a stable, fast-playing feel
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers smooth fret travel
- • LC Standard-2 humbuckers give rich, full output
CONS
- • No weight is listed to check comfort during play
- • Lacks active electronics for boosted volume options
- • Single cut shape may suit only certain playing styles
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 635326
$581
Larry Carlton L5 Tobacco Sunburst
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Metal
Hard Rock
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar sounds like a big, warm rock machine thanks to its mahogany body and flamed maple top. The two LC Standard-2 humbuckers give you plenty of punch for live gigs. It feels solid under your hands with a smooth rosewood fingerboard, but you cannot tell how heavy it is. It is a great choice for players who want a classic shape with a modern, high-output voice.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body provides warm, thick tone foundation
- • Flamed maple top adds brightness and cutting high-end
- • Two LC Standard-2 humbuckers deliver powerful, modern rock sound
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers smooth, comfortable playing feel
CONS
- • No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
- • Sire hardware lacks premium big-brand reputation
- • Lacks active electronics for heavy amplification needs
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 635310
$581
Larry Carlton L5 Amber Burst
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Blues
Hard Rock
Jazz
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a solid workhorse built for rock players. The mahogany and maple combo gives it a warm sound that sits well in a band. It's an affordable choice with a classic vibe that anyone can play.
PROS
- • Mahogany body paired with flamed maple top for rich warmth
- • Set-in neck joint offers superior stability and sustain
- • Two LC Standard-2 humbuckers deliver classic rock tone
- • Amber Burst finish provides a unique vintage look
CONS
- • No weight is listed, so heaviness is unknown
- • Single cutaway shape limits high-string access
- • Rosewood fingerboard may darken over time
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 635324
$581
Larry Carlton L7V CAR New Gen
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Classic Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton L7V is a fantastic option for players craving that classic, warm P90 tone and a comfortable 24.75 in scale. It’s got that vintage vibe and feel, perfect for blues, rock, and even some jazzy tones, all at a very accessible price point. It's a real workhorse instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a Carlton signature.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and note definition.
- • Vintage P90 pickups offer a thick, creamy, and articulate tone.
- • Bolt-on neck construction creates a lively, responsive feel.
CONS
- • Candy Apple Red finish might not appeal to all players' tastes.
- • Limited pickup versatility compared to humbucker-equipped guitars.
- • Mahogany body can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611212
$814
Larry Carlton L7V TS New Gen
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Jazz
Classic Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton L7V TS New Gen is a seriously cool guitar, offering a vintage vibe with modern playability. The P90s really shine for blues, rock, and even some jazzy tones, and the shorter scale makes bending a breeze. It's a great option for players seeking a quality instrument with a distinct voice without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant sustain and a pleasing weight.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and a smooth playing experience.
- • C Vintage P90s provide a fat, articulate tone with surprising versatility.
- • Bolt-on neck construction yields a snappy attack and responsive feel.
CONS
- • Tobacco Sunburst finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • 24.75in scale length isn't ideal for players preferring a longer scale's tension.
- • Limited pickup options restrict extreme high-gain or modern tones.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611211
$907
Larry Carlton L7 Skyburst Sparkle New Gen
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Jazz
Metal
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton L7 is a seriously cool axe – a real throwback to the golden age of Gibson. The Skyburst Sparkle finish is eye-catching, and those LC Vintage pickups nail that warm, creamy tone Larry's known for. It's perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock players who want a premium feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warm, resonant sustain and a comfortable feel
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and smooth playing experience
- • LC Vintage-2 humbuckers deliver a versatile range of classic tones
- • Push/pull coil splitting expands tonal options for brighter sounds
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel a bit heavier for extended playing sessions
- • Skyburst Sparkle finish might not appeal to players seeking a more understated aesthetic
- • 24.75in scale length isn't ideal for players preferring a longer scale
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611210
$860
Larry Carlton L7V BK New Gen
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Hard Rock
Rock
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton L7V is a seriously cool guitar for players who love that thick, raw P90 tone. The 24.75-inch scale and comfortable neck profile make it easy to play, and the coil-splitting feature opens up some unexpected sounds. It's a fantastic option for blues, rock, and anyone chasing that classic vintage vibe without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant sustain and a pleasing weight.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and smooth playability.
- • C Vintage P90s provide a thick, vocal tone ideal for blues and rock.
- • Push/pull coil splitting adds versatility beyond classic P90 sounds.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • Limited pickup options restrict tonal range compared to more versatile guitars.
- • Ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness, requiring occasional conditioning.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611205
$791
Larry Carlton L7 BK New Gen
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
629 mm (24.76")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Jazz
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton L7 BK New Gen is a fantastic option for players chasing a vintage-inspired tone with modern playability. The mahogany build and those LC Vintage-2 pickups nail that warm, articulate sound perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It's a well-built instrument offering a premium feel at a more accessible price point.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a classic tone foundation
- • Ebony fingerboard offers slick playability and crisp articulation
- • LC Vintage-2 pickups deliver a balanced, vintage-voiced humbucker tone
- • Bolt-on neck design enhances responsiveness and a quicker attack
CONS
- • The shorter 24.75 in scale length may feel cramped for players used to longer scales
- • Mahogany body can contribute to a heavier feel, potentially uncomfortable for some
- • Coil-split functionality, while present, might be a bit limited in versatility
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611204
$905
Every single cut guitars that matches
20 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Larry Carlton L7 Metallic Gold New Gen | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $872 |
| 17 | Larry Carlton L7 TS New Gen | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $930 |
| 18 | Larry Carlton I5L Tobacco Sunburst Satin | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Ash body | $616 |
| 19 | Larry Carlton L3 P90 TV Yellow | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $395 |
| 20 | Larry Carlton L3 P90 Tobacco Sunburst | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 629 mm (24.76") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $441 |
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 519 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,454
from $243 to $6,985
Nut width
median 43 mm (1.69")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 43.1 mm (1.7") · 397 models
Scale
median 628 mm (24.72")
from 625 mm (24.61") to 648 mm (25.51") · 460 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 254 mm (10") to 350 mm (13.78") · 238 models
Body
mahogany, okoume, poplar
most common · 429 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, ebony, laurel
most common · 357 models
Frets
median 22
from 22 to 22 · 323 models
Neck profile
C, U
most common · 82 models
Weight
median 6.5 kg
from 3.88 kg to 10 kg · 32 models
How to Choose the Best Single Cut Guitars
1
Heritage
Carlton's collaboration with Yamaha began in the late 80s, resulting in instruments that captured his preferences for sustain, clarity, and a comfortable feel. These weren't just slapped together - Carlton was deeply involved in the design process, tweaking neck profiles and pickup voicing to achieve his signature sound. It's a history that matters.
2
Pickup Voicing
The heart of the Carlton tone is the custom-wound Yamaha pickups. They're not your typical high-output shredders; they're voiced for a balanced response, with a slight emphasis on the midrange that gives the guitar a warmth and clarity that cuts through the mix without being harsh. Think smooth, creamy overdrive, not ice-picky high frequencies.
3
Neck Profile
Carlton's preference for a comfortable, slightly rounded neck profile is a key factor. It's not a thin, shredder-style neck, nor is it a chunky vintage C. It's somewhere in between - allowing for effortless playing and excellent control, especially when navigating complex chord voicings and subtle dynamic shifts.
4
Build Quality
Yamaha's reputation for solid construction shines through. These guitars are well-built, with tight neck joints and clean fretwork. The finish quality, while not always flashy, is consistently good, and the hardware is generally reliable - although some earlier models had a few minor hardware quirks that are worth checking.
5
Sustain & Resonance
The mahogany body and typically maple top combination contributes to excellent sustain and resonance. This isn't just about long notes; it's about the quality of the sustain - a rich, full tone that allows your playing to breathe and express its nuances. It's the difference between a note that hangs and a note that sings.
Buying Guide
Finding a Larry Carlton Single Cut can be tricky; they were produced in limited numbers over several years. Early models (late 80s - early 90s) are generally considered the most sought-after, but later versions still offer a lot of the same core character. Watch out for neck cracks - mahogany can be prone to them, especially in older instruments. Don't be afraid to pay a bit more for a well-maintained example; the right Carlton can be a lifetime player.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 20 of 519 single cut guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your budget and what you're looking for. If you want that specific Carlton tone and build quality, absolutely. If you're chasing a similar vibe on a tighter budget, there are other options, but you'll be compromising somewhere.
There were several variations - different finishes, pickup configurations (some HSS), and slight neck profile variations. The core character remains consistent, but it's worth researching specific models to see which best suits your preferences.
Yes, they're standard humbucker size. However, a significant part of the Carlton tone is those specific pickups, so swapping them out might not get you closer to the sound you're after unless you're deliberately going for something different.
A clean Fender-style amp - a Twin, a Deluxe Reverb - is the classic pairing. But don't be afraid to experiment; Carlton himself used a variety of amps over the years. A good clean platform is key to letting the guitar's character shine through.
Check for neck cracks (common in mahogany), fret wear, and any signs of previous repairs. Also, carefully examine the electronics for any crackling or intermittent signals - a sign of aging components.
