Yamaha 4th Generation L Series Acoustic Guitars

Yamaha announces the arrival of their newly revamped, 4th Generation handcrafted acoustic guitar line, the L Series.

Although not as popular as their student level guitars, the Yamaha L Series has a long history of 40 years, providing experienced players with reliable handcrafted guitars at reasonable prices.

For two years, Yamaha has been working on updating these instruments, and they finished just in time for the L Series' 40th anniversary. The result of this redesign is the 4th Generation L Series, featuring 16 new guitars that cover both 6 and 12 string acoustics. Each of these new instruments come with several interesting technological innovations that we found interesting.

A notable change to the guitar building method is the use of Yamaha's Acoustic Resonance Enhancement treatment or A.R.E. The solid Engelmann spruce tops used on all models are now treated with A.R.E. technology.

Yamaha elaborates: "Instruments made with this technology produce a tonal richness that can only be found in a vintage instrument that has been played for many years. A. R. E. treatment provides outstanding tonal balance and eliminates the harsh edge common with younger guitars."

For more on Acoustic Resonance Enhancement, check out this video:

Yamaha also developed a new bracing pattern with lower bracing height and shape. It is supposed to help improve the vibration of the top board resulting in better tonal transfer throughout the guitar. Yamaha claims that this creates "a balanced low end, a crisp top end and an increase in volume, characteristics in keeping with current market demands."

Aside from the body, the neck design was also updated to improve playability and comfort. All the new L Series models now have refined neck profiles with a five-ply design that give them lower string action and wider string spacing.

Even the electronics used on the guitars were updated, featuring Yamaha's new SRT Zero Impact pickup system - described as an "unobtrusive passive under-saddle piezo pickup". This pickup and preamp system is designed to have the least possible effect to the guitar's body and unplugged sound, described as being almost invisible.

Aside from the original rosewood back and sides configuration, Yamaha decided to expand the L Series further by offering models that feature mahogany back and sides. The L Series guitars were launched at the recently concluded 2014 NAMM Show. They will be available by March of this year. Head over to Yamaha for more information on the specific models.

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