Best Larry Carlton ST Style Guitars 2026
Alright, so you're chasing that Larry Carlton vibe – that smooth, sophisticated, almost vocal quality he gets. It’s not just about a Strat, it’s about *his* Strat. The Larry Carlton signature guitars are a direct attempt to capture that, but they’ve had a few iterations and some quirks along the way. Let's break down what makes them special, and if they’re really worth the chase.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Larry Carlton S10 HSS Transparent Green
Blues
Pop
Funk
Key Feature:
This S10 is a serious contender for players seeking a refined, modern ST-style guitar. Larry Carlton’s signature influence shines through with a comfortable neck profile and powerful, articulate pickups—perfect for blues, rock, and session work where versatility and feel are paramount. It’s a premium-priced instrument delivering a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Solid poplar top adds snap and character to the alder body.
- • Seymour Duncan Fortuna pickups deliver a modern, articulate tone.
- • Compound radius fingerboard eases chording and facilitates fast playing.
- • Gotoh tremolo provides smooth action and tuning stability.
CONS
- • The alder body may make it a bit heftier than some players prefer.
- • Transparent green finish might not appeal to all aesthetic tastes.
- • HSS configuration limits versatility for extreme metal or jazz tones.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 584524
$1,429
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Larry Carlton S5 Black
Country
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
The Larry Carlton S5 Black is a surprisingly capable Strat-style guitar offering a vintage vibe at an affordable price. Those LC Super-V pickups are a real highlight, delivering a clean, articulate tone perfect for session work or classic rock tones. It's a solid choice for players seeking a versatile and comfortable instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • LC Super-V pickups deliver a clear, articulate vintage single-coil voice.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy feel and easy playability.
- • S7V tremolo provides smooth, controlled vibrato without excessive dive.
CONS
- • Alder body can feel a bit plain compared to more figured woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck design.
- • Mint pickguard might not appeal to players seeking a more traditional aesthetic.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 584511
$439
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Larry Carlton S10 SSS Tobacco Sunburst
Pop
Blues
Funk
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S10 is a seriously refined instrument – a fantastic choice for players seeking that classic, bell-like Strat tone with a modern edge. The compound radius neck and stainless steel frets make it a joy to play, and the Swamp Ash body provides a lively, responsive feel. It’s perfect for blues, jazz, and clean-toned rock – a real workhorse for a discerning guitarist.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, articulate tone with excellent sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan single coils provide authentic vintage Strat character and clarity.
- • Compound radius maple fingerboard enhances playability across the entire fretboard.
- • Gotoh tremolo offers smooth, reliable vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Swamp ash can make the guitar somewhat prone to finish checking with age.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set-neck construction.
- • SSS configuration limits versatility for players needing heavier distortion sounds.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 584537
$1,429
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton S3 TS
Indie
Blues
Funk
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S3 TS is a seriously good deal for players wanting that signature Carlton vibe. The mahogany body and carefully chosen pickups deliver a warm, articulate tone perfect for blues, country, and classic rock. It's a versatile workhorse that punches way above its class.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a classic Carlton tone.
- • Sire Standard ST pickups offer clarity and a surprisingly vocal midrange.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy feel and easy access to higher frets.
- • 2-Post tremolo system adds expressive vibrato without excessive flopping.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the premium feel of a set-neck.
- • Tortoise pickguard might not appeal to everyone's aesthetic preferences.
- • Mahogany body can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 536975
$403
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Larry Carlton S7FM TBL 2nd Gen
Funk
Pop
Country
Key Feature:
This S7FM TBL is a seriously well-thought-out instrument, clearly designed with Carlton’s signature tones in mind. The roasted maple neck and those S7 pickups deliver a fantastic blend of warmth and clarity – perfect for players digging into blues, jazz fusion, and smooth rock. It's a surprisingly affordable way to get a lot of high-end feel and sound.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and feel.
- • S7 humbucker delivers Larry Carlton's signature warm, articulate, and powerful tone.
- • Steel block tremolo improves sustain and adds a touch of refinement.
- • Premium locking tuners enhance tuning stability, a welcome upgrade.
CONS
- • Alder body might be slightly heavier than some players prefer.
- • Coil-split functionality is limited, not a true single-coil voice.
- • Translucent blue finish can show fingerprints and minor blemishes easily.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 487429
$648
#6
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton S7 FM Natural Satin New Gen
Funk
Pop
Blues
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S7 is a seriously well-voiced guitar, clearly designed for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone with modern playability. The Sire pickups are the star here – they nail that warm, articulate Carlton sound. It’s a great choice for blues, classic rock, and country players who want a premium-feeling instrument without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Sire LC Super-ST pickups deliver a remarkably authentic, vintage-voiced sound.
- • Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability across the fretboard.
- • Bolt-on neck construction contributes to a snappy, responsive feel.
CONS
- • Flamed maple top, while beautiful, might be a thin veneer.
- • Tremolo system may require occasional setup to maintain tuning stability.
- • Limited pickup configurations restrict versatility for extreme genres.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611271
$879
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton S7FM TBK 2nd Gen
Indie
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
This S7FM TBK is a fantastic option for players chasing that Larry Carlton vibe without the premium price tag. The roasted maple neck and comfortable profile make it a joy to play, and the S7 pickups offer a versatile range of tones from clean jazz to slightly overdriven blues. It’s a well-built instrument perfect for gigging musicians and dedicated Carlton fans.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- • S7 Zebra humbucker delivers a warm, articulate, Carlton-esque tone.
- • Steel block tremolo enhances sustain and resonance noticeably.
- • Roasted maple fingerboard resists moisture and offers smooth playability.
CONS
- • Alder body might feel a bit lightweight for some players’ preference.
- • Coil split functionality is somewhat limited in tonal range.
- • Transparent Black Burst finish can reveal some figuring in the maple.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 561609
$637
#8
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton X5 TBKS
Rock
Pop
Funk
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton X5 TBKS is a seriously good deal for players chasing that smooth, soulful tone. The mahogany/ash construction and LC Modern pickups nail a warm, slightly compressed sound perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It’s a great option for intermediate players wanting a Floyd Rose trem without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Ash combo delivers warmth with focused upper-midrange clarity.
- • LC Modern humbuckers offer a versatile, articulate, and powerful tone.
- • 14” radius rosewood fingerboard provides comfortable playability for various styles.
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for expressive vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • Mahogany body may feel slightly heavy for players preferring lighter instruments.
- • Hardware, while functional, isn't quite on par with premium, name-brand components.
- • 5-way switching can feel limiting for players desiring more tonal options.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 584431
$494
#9
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton S7 HSS SB New Gen
Rock
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S7 HSS is a seriously cool hybrid Strat – a great blend of vintage feel and modern versatility. The Sire pickups really shine, offering a wide range of tones perfect for session players, blues, and rock. It's a fantastic option for players wanting a pro-level instrument without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Maple top adds clarity and sparkle to the overall sonic character
- • Sire LC pickups deliver a surprisingly versatile range of tones, from clean to driven
- • Bolt-on neck offers a snappy feel and easy playability, typical of vintage Strats
CONS
- • Alder body can feel a bit plain compared to more figured woods
- • Bolt-on neck construction may not appeal to players preferring set necks
- • Tremolo system, while functional, may require setup for optimal tuning stability
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611288
$791
#10
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Larry Carlton S7 FM See Through Red New Gen
Rock
Pop
Blues
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S7 is a seriously comfortable and inspiring instrument. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a classic, articulate tone reminiscent of Carlton’s signature sound – think clean jazz, blues, and lighter rock. The build quality is impressive for the price point, and it feels like a much more premium guitar in your hands.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for a clear tone.
- • SIRE LC Super-ST pickups deliver articulate cleans and biting overdrive.
- • Compound radius fingerboard eases chording while enabling effortless lead work.
- • Bolt-on neck offers a snappy response and bright, focused character.
CONS
- • Flamed maple top, while beautiful, can add unnecessary weight.
- • Single-coil configuration limits versatility for heavier, distorted genres.
- • Tremolo system might require professional setup for optimal tuning stability.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 611279
$879
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton S7 CGM
Indie
Blues
Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S7 CGM is a fantastic option for players seeking a versatile, vintage-inspired instrument. The roasted maple neck and S7 pickups deliver a sweet, responsive tone perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It’s a really well-built guitar offering a lot of pro-level features at a surprisingly affordable price point.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- • S7 Zebra humbucker delivers Carlton's signature warm, articulate tone.
- • Modern Sire tremolo provides smooth vibrato without tuning issues.
- • Tortoise pickguard adds a touch of vintage elegance and visual appeal.
CONS
- • Alder body, while good, lacks the resonance of mahogany or ash.
- • Bolt-on neck might not appeal to players preferring set necks.
- • Coil-split functionality is limited; lacks true single-coil character.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 559156
$604
#12
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton S7 SG 2nd Gen
Rock
Funk
Country
Key Feature:
This S7 SG 2nd Gen is a seriously cool instrument, clearly inspired by Larry Carlton's signature sound. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and that Zebra humbucker delivers a warm, creamy tone perfect for blues, jazz, and classic rock. It's an affordable way to get a taste of that iconic Carlton vibe.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- • S7 Zebra humbucker delivers a thick, articulate Carlton signature tone.
- • 2-Post tremolo offers smooth vibrato without tuning instability.
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for the instrument.
CONS
- • Sherwood Green finish might not appeal to all players’ aesthetic preferences.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a set-neck.
- • Coil splitting, while functional, might not offer truly convincing single-coil tones.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 487426
$549
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Larry Carlton S7 HSS CAR New Gen
Rock
Country
Indie
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S7 HSS is a seriously well-equipped guitar for the price. The SIRE pickups are surprisingly versatile, handling blues, rock, and even some funk with ease. It's a great option for players looking for a vintage vibe with modern playability and a comfortable C-profile neck.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Maple top adds clarity and a touch of sparkle to the overall sound
- • SIRE LC pickups offer a versatile range from warm cleans to crunchy overdrive
- • Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability for both chords and solos
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction can lack the warmth of a set-neck
- • Candy Apple Red finish may be polarizing for some players
- • Tremolo system might require occasional maintenance to stay in tune
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611287
$769
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Larry Carlton S10 HSS Natural Burst
Blues
Pop
Rock
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S10 is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, comfortable, and well-equipped instrument. The hybrid HSS pickup configuration gives you a broad palette of tones, from glassy cleans to searing rock leads, and the compound radius neck makes it a joy to play. It’s a premium-priced guitar that delivers a lot of value and is ideal for gigging musicians and serious hobbyists.
PROS
- • Solid alder body provides excellent sustain and resonance.
- • Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a versatile, articulate tone.
- • Compound radius maple fingerboard enhances playability across the fretboard.
- • Gotoh tremolo offers smooth action and reliable tuning stability.
CONS
- • Alder body combined with stainless steel frets can make it noticeably weighty.
- • HSS configuration might limit appeal for players strictly seeking vintage single-coil tones.
- • Natural Burst finish shows grain – may require careful maintenance to prevent scratches.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584516
$1,374
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Larry Carlton S5 3-Tone Sunburst
Country
Rock
Pop
Key Feature:
This Larry Carlton S5 is a solid, affordable option for players chasing that classic, slightly scooped Strat vibe. The Super-V pickups give you a surprisingly clean and articulate tone, perfect for funk, blues, and lighter rock. It's a great workhorse guitar that offers a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • LC Super-V pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and vintage-voiced character.
- • Maple neck profile provides comfortable playability and quick access to higher frets.
- • S7V tremolo system allows for subtle vibrato and expressive playing.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction can lack the warmth of a set-neck design.
- • Maple fretboard may feel a bit slick for players preferring rosewood.
- • Tortoiseshell pickguard is a stylistic choice that may not appeal to everyone.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 584509
$439
How to Choose the Best ST Style Guitars
1
Heritage & Design
The initial Larry Carlton Strat (1988) was a direct collaboration with Fender, aiming for a refined version of his iconic 1958 Strat. Later models (the 2000s versions) continued this legacy, though the execution sometimes varied. It’s about that specific, slightly scooped midrange and enhanced sustain Carlton favors.
2
Pickup Voicing
Carlton's signature pickups, typically custom-wound DiMarzio units, are the heart of the tone. They’re voiced for a warm, creamy clean tone with a surprising amount of headroom. They don't have that ice-picky high-end; it's more of a smooth, vocal quality that cuts through a mix without being harsh.
3
Neck Profile
Carlton's preferred neck profile is a modified 'C' shape – thinner than a vintage 'C', but with more substantial feel than a modern 'D'. This allows for effortless legato phrasing and those incredibly fluid lines he's known for. It’s a real player’s neck, comfortable for long gigs.
4
Build Quality & Hardware
Early models were generally well-built, but later reissues sometimes cut corners on the hardware – the tuners can feel a little cheap, and the tremolo block isn't always the highest quality. Pay close attention to fretwork, as it can vary significantly.
5
Sustain & Resonance
Carlton’s Strats were always about maximizing sustain. The heavier body woods (often ash or swamp ash) contribute to this, and the custom pickup placement helps drive the resonance. It’s the kind of guitar that really sings when you dig in.
Buying Guide
These Larry Carlton Strats are a bit of a mixed bag. The early '88 models are highly sought-after and command a premium, but later reissues can be a gamble. Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck, good fretwork, and those signature DiMarzio pickups – even if you swap the hardware later. Don't expect a vintage Strat tone; Carlton's guitars have a distinct voice all their own.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We've spent hours playing these guitars through various amps – Fender Twins, Mesa/Boots, even a Vox AC30 – to nail down the nuances of their tone. We’ve done A/B comparisons against vintage Strats and modern contenders, and subjected them to the rigors of band rehearsals and recording sessions to see how they hold up under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends. The '88 models are investment pieces. Later reissues can be a good value if you find one in good condition with a comfortable neck and working electronics. Do your homework and play before you buy.
The '88 is considered the more authentic representation of Carlton's guitar, with generally better build quality and more consistent specs. The 2000s models varied more in quality and features.
Absolutely. A good quality Strat with custom-wound DiMarzios in the Carlton style, and a similar neck profile, can get you very close. It's a more affordable option, but requires more research and tweaking.
Carlton often uses Fender clean platforms like the Twin Reverb or Deluxe Reverb. A warm, slightly overdriven amp will really highlight the pickups' character. Think clean headroom with a touch of tube saturation – nothing too aggressive.
The later models, especially, can have issues with the tremolo. They're often not the most stable, so be prepared to potentially upgrade the block and springs for better tuning stability.
