My dad owned and played a 1934 L5 with the Harry Reser band. He and Reser picked it up at the Gibson factory in Kalamazoo MI. The instrument cost $275.00 in 1934; a small fortune in those days.
I played what I believe to be an acoustic L7 in a shop in Nashville. Best guitar I’ve ever touched, played, or drooled over. Couldn’t see the Gibson logo (or I just don’t remember it), but it was supposedly from 1939. Looked extremely similar. I’m still dying to find one that I can play!
Great video comparison of these two revered non cut beautys. I prefer the warmth of this particular L7, but the L5 will always be worth more - regardless of which sounds better. Thanks for posting , this was very informative.
We are listening to two guitars built to the same general specifications. They should sound generally similar, BUT each was hand-made, which logically created sonic differences between the two. Since the differences in construction are really all cosmetic, we are left to surmise that the little nipple at the base of the fretboard is worth $4,000. That is some nipple.
Good video!! I have a 1936 L-7, x-braced, that appears to have a slightly sunken top, but it plays great and is my favorite in terms of volume and tone. That said, I have found several sources that suggest the x-braced Gibsons from these years were carved in such a way that looks as if it is sinking but really is not.
The years 1936-1940 were a period of transition between 16” & 17” lower bout as well as parallel vs X-bracing for both models. The L5 and L7 didn’t necessarily make those transitions in the same year. So there can be a significant variation in character from one instrument to another.
Good video sir. I'm sort of a Strat and ES 335 bigot (Actually that's just what I've got at the moment) but I really can appreciate those guitars. Didn't know about the L7. Shame on me.
Good job on the video...it's always interesting to observe the commenters divergent opinions and descriptions of tone. If the construction of both guitars is basically similar, My ear detects more clarity, definition in the L5...I am thinking the ebony fingerboard might be the explanation to a certain extent. Question: Ebony bridge on L5? Rosewood bridge on L7?...Also, could it be that the L5 has carved parallel soundboard braces, and the L7's are kerfed?...or vice-versa. We all know that every guitar will be it's own unique tone machine, and most importantly, it is the player's manipulation of the instrument that truly becomes the ultimate definer of how it sounds
Very informative video. It is of great help. Thank you.
Před rokem
Great comparison! I love the L-5! Been to Norm's Rare Guitar many times here in Tarzana, California. Have has the chance to hear several people play it against the L-7 vs L-5 and your right they sound the same. But I dig the L-5 more cause it's more ornate!
This video popped up for me 5 months after I saw it initially.....The subject is right up my alley of interest..as I possess a 1946 L50, another of my project guitars. Not a 'Jazz snob' here...just a regular one. Upon my second effort of scrutinizing the A/B test, ( a well done example on your part), I would note, if I owned these two guitars, I, like yourself, would also persist in rationalizing that the L7 sounds as good, or close enough, to the L5; but, deep down, I think it's clear, for whatever reason, perhaps not even some subtleties of superior construction elements, or superior wood selection, but just luck of the draw...the L5 has a richer 'tone'...maybe I would say it seems it has a more low frequency resonance it presents...not like bassy, but a more supportive lower midrange, that to my snobby ear, delivers a more, elegant?, or complex response. My advice, refrain from playing them in a side by side comparison, and of course, grab that L7 out from time to time to explore It's uniquely wonderful qualities, but just admit, you really want to get back to the L5, ....who could resist it's exquisite voice. If it it helps you out, you can send me the L7, so you don't have to be reminded of it's actual subpar nature. Either way, enjoy the hell out of them, good fortune, has, smiled upon you
Awesome Video!!!! Awesome thoughts and comments.. I might have to add one to my stable.. Maybe the L 7.. If i can find one.. Thank you!!! Keep on Rockin' !!!
Great video and I consider you lucky to be able to own these holy grail arch tops. I live in the middle of nowhere Nebraska and I couldn't test drive a guitar like that without having it mailed to me like you did. I recently bought my first jazz guitar, a 2016 Gibson ES-175, which I'm very happy with. But my dream is to own a highly resonant aged spruce top Gibson arch-top acoustic. If I were you, I'd be even more protective of the L-7, because it has a much more open and beautiful tone.
I'm sure that 175 is mighty sweet. Never played a Gibson that wasn't, new or old. I never dreamed I'd drop this kinda cash on a guitar, until i played it. So, try not to play any. ;D
Man, just lean back and enjoy that 175. In my opinion, it is the most iconic jazz guitar ever built - not to mention that it is also better at fighting feedback and is a far more durable guitar than the carved/solid wood guitars. That is what I think (oh, and Joe Pass, too).
I must say the L7 sounded thinner and more guitar-y. The L5 was more compressed, mellower and not as loud. I want both, but the difference can't be down to some variations in trim. It's the wood choice and internal carving for sure.
Older instruments like this usually require their necks to be reset, a very expensive procedure. As such, unless noted by the seller you should plan on a neck reset, possibly an additional $2K procedure. Bottom line, very much worth the cost.
Dooooooood so awesome very great comparo between the models -- and the dry delivery is KILLIN me :P -- i do blv you've sold me on the quest for a great L7 :)
The L7 sounds like a L5 recorded on a cassette deck with a slightly misaligned playback head. Or the wrong bias setting. Or a dirty head. Or a metal tape with a ferro eq correction. Or recorded without, but played-back with a Dolby B setting. Well, something like that anyway. Greetz from Holland.
They sound different, probably due to size. However, the cost of these is crazy since only collectors can own these and nobody is actually playing in this style nowadays. Obviously, if I was going to record with one of these great American instruments, I would choose the L5, because it has a more vintage sound, in my opinion. But the L7 is supposed to be louder, because it’s larger. And that seems “modern” sized. The L7 was supposedly made for use by the big bands, so if you are playing big band music , then you would want an L7 to have an original sound. I like both. But the L5 has the mojo.
You are too strong. I tried to fight it, but I had to subscribe. You make amazing videos, and you know how to play a vintage L7 and make it do what it should be doing. ...especially on your Sleep Walk video. In this video, the L5 sounds way way better. You can see it plays so much more easily than the L7. You seem to have to struggle and fight the L7. I think its action is too high, up high on the neck. And maybe the action on the L5 that you state is too low, maybe it kind of needs to be that low to get it playing so smoothly as you demonstrate. Thanks for the demo. I almost sold my 1941 L7 yesterday, and backed out. But the bridge needs to be lowered you like yours was. And I need one of those pickups. I am really glad I did not sell it after your Sleep Walk video blew me away. Thanks.
Early classic period Gibsons are fine guitars and all have unique qualities-not all the same. No two hand crafted guitars are. That’s a good thing. The Reality is Gibsons like most factory guitars can vary. A few exceptional ones will stand out.
Hank, I'm subscribed to Elderly Instruments out of Michigan. They always get in the coolest older instruments. I'm the 11,111 view. Doesn't that mean something? Ha., I don't know. Really enjoyed this video. @ 3:00 why did I think of a mail order bride? Prob because most players name and/or compare their guitars to a woman. Love your attention to detail.
Q as I begin my long journey into playing like the great Montgomery (this is just a hobby for me,) just started learning, but I don't have 5 grand, so what year should I be looking at?
If this is 36 vs 39, wouldn’t the construction differ? I understand that Gibson moved to 25.5 “ scale and parallel bracing in 1939. Is your L7 parallel or x braced? - Extreme Jazz Snob
nice one !! i feel the L7 has more "air" in the sound, and is less thick in the mediums. A bit like the diference between my L5 and my stromberg (the L5 being more thick in the mids like yours). Feel free to go have a listen
Well its simple. These are ACOUSTIC guitars. You’re using them with flatwound strings plugged in. You’re not correctly comparing the tone. Put bronze wound strings on them and play them acoustic, as they were intended to be. There’s a huge difference. Thanks!
My dad owned and played a 1934 L5 with the Harry Reser band. He and Reser picked it up at the Gibson factory in Kalamazoo MI. The instrument cost $275.00 in 1934; a small fortune in those days.
Hardly anybody remembers how highly regarded Harry Reser was or what an amazing player he was.
I actually prefer the sound of the L-7. Very similar, though.. I own a 1950 L-50. Sweet!
I played what I believe to be an acoustic L7 in a shop in Nashville. Best guitar I’ve ever touched, played, or drooled over. Couldn’t see the Gibson logo (or I just don’t remember it), but it was supposedly from 1939. Looked extremely similar. I’m still dying to find one that I can play!
The L7 sounds brighter to my ears. Both sound fabulous!
Both sound and look beautiful. I could listen to you just play random shiz for hours. Thanks for sharing!
There's plenty of random shiz out there. Thanks Adyren.
Your comparison commentary was perfect as I contemplate buying a good jazz guitar :-)
I'm listening on laptop speakers and I can hear a noticeable difference. Both sound great, just different. I personally prefer the L5.
How amazing to find my favorite tornado chaser discussing the legend Gibson L-5! Happy trails Hank
Great video comparison of these two revered non cut beautys.
I prefer the warmth of this particular L7, but the L5 will always be worth more - regardless of which sounds better. Thanks for posting , this was very informative.
I never thought I would stumble across my favorite tornado chaser while searching for classic Gibson models lol. Cheers Hank!
thanks for this ... great comparison and nice tour through both models...
Great video. Ive owned all these instruments. L5 was warmer in the sound than L7. 30's Gibson archtops are great.
Thank you for taking the time to make this!
I certainly enjoyed the playing and the advice. Thanks!
We are listening to two guitars built to the same general specifications. They should sound generally similar, BUT each was hand-made, which logically created sonic differences between the two. Since the differences in construction are really all cosmetic, we are left to surmise that the little nipple at the base of the fretboard is worth $4,000. That is some nipple.
Good video!! I have a 1936 L-7, x-braced, that appears to have a slightly sunken top, but it plays great and is my favorite in terms of volume and tone. That said, I have found several sources that suggest the x-braced Gibsons from these years were carved in such a way that looks as if it is sinking but really is not.
2010 Custom Shop L-7C owner here, thanks for the awesome comparison. Bling doesn't make it sing ;-)
h1pst3r88 L7’s are junk compared to L5
The years 1936-1940 were a period of transition between 16” & 17” lower bout as well as parallel vs X-bracing for both models. The L5 and L7 didn’t necessarily make those transitions in the same year. So there can be a significant variation in character from one instrument to another.
Good video sir. I'm sort of a Strat and ES 335 bigot (Actually that's just what I've got at the moment) but I really can appreciate those guitars. Didn't know about the L7. Shame on me.
the L7 has a more throatier sound than the L5. But then, i learned to play on a 36 L7 and a 39 Gretsch New Yorker!
I have that 1936 L5 now. Good picking!! Excellent monologue.
Good job on the video...it's always interesting to observe the commenters divergent opinions and descriptions of tone. If the construction of both guitars is basically similar, My ear detects more clarity, definition in the L5...I am thinking the ebony fingerboard might be the explanation to a certain extent. Question: Ebony bridge on L5? Rosewood bridge on L7?...Also, could it be that the L5 has carved parallel soundboard braces, and the L7's are kerfed?...or vice-versa. We all know that every guitar will be it's own unique tone machine, and most importantly, it is the player's manipulation of the instrument that truly becomes the ultimate definer of how it sounds
The L5 sounds warmer to me and not quite as twangy as the L7
Agreed. I have the earliest natural finish with white pickguard L-5. From "Great Uncle Tony" (the G.U.T. guitar). L-5s are amazing (and L7s good too).
Very informative video. It is of great help.
Thank you.
Great comparison! I love the L-5! Been to Norm's Rare Guitar many times here in Tarzana, California. Have has the chance to hear several people play it against the L-7 vs L-5 and your right they sound the same. But I dig the L-5 more cause it's more ornate!
Great video.
This video popped up for me 5 months after I saw it initially.....The subject is right up my alley of interest..as I possess a 1946 L50, another of my project guitars. Not a 'Jazz snob' here...just a regular one. Upon my second effort of scrutinizing the A/B test, ( a well done example on your part), I would note, if I owned these two guitars, I, like yourself, would also persist in rationalizing that the L7 sounds as good, or close enough, to the L5; but, deep down, I think it's clear, for whatever reason, perhaps not even some subtleties of superior construction elements, or superior wood selection, but just luck of the draw...the L5 has a richer 'tone'...maybe I would say it seems it has a more low frequency resonance it presents...not like bassy, but a more supportive lower midrange, that to my snobby ear, delivers a more, elegant?, or complex response. My advice, refrain from playing them in a side by side comparison, and of course, grab that L7 out from time to time to explore It's uniquely wonderful qualities, but just admit, you really want to get back to the L5, ....who could resist it's exquisite voice. If it it helps you out, you can send me the L7, so you don't have to be reminded of it's actual subpar nature. Either way, enjoy the hell out of them, good fortune, has, smiled upon you
i like the difference in release/falloff between the two
Hank is also a virtuoso?! Wow
Awesome Video!!!! Awesome thoughts and comments.. I might have to add one to my stable.. Maybe the L 7.. If i can find one.. Thank you!!! Keep on Rockin' !!!
Great video and I consider you lucky to be able to own these holy grail arch tops. I live in the middle of nowhere Nebraska and I couldn't test drive a guitar like that without having it mailed to me like you did. I recently bought my first jazz guitar, a 2016 Gibson ES-175, which I'm very happy with. But my dream is to own a highly resonant aged spruce top Gibson arch-top acoustic. If I were you, I'd be even more protective of the L-7, because it has a much more open and beautiful tone.
I'm sure that 175 is mighty sweet. Never played a Gibson that wasn't, new or old. I never dreamed I'd drop this kinda cash on a guitar, until i played it. So, try not to play any. ;D
Man, just lean back and enjoy that 175. In my opinion, it is the most iconic jazz guitar ever built - not to mention that it is also better at fighting feedback and is a far more durable guitar than the carved/solid wood guitars. That is what I think (oh, and Joe Pass, too).
I must say the L7 sounded thinner and more guitar-y. The L5 was more compressed, mellower and not as loud. I want both, but the difference can't be down to some variations in trim. It's the wood choice and internal carving for sure.
It'd be great to see you guys live, really like the music you play, plus I love storm chasing!
Hope to swing through your town one day soon.
Older instruments like this usually require their necks to be reset, a very expensive procedure.
As such, unless noted by the seller you should plan on a neck reset, possibly an additional $2K procedure.
Bottom line, very much worth the cost.
Dooooooood so awesome very great comparo between the models -- and the dry delivery is KILLIN me :P -- i do blv you've sold me on the quest for a great L7 :)
Superb playing.... guess you deserve the guitars
Do you storm chase too?
Lovely playing btw :)
Amazing!! I actually like the L7 sound on your video better
The L7 sounds like a L5 recorded on a cassette deck with a slightly misaligned playback head. Or the wrong bias setting. Or a dirty head. Or a metal tape with a ferro eq correction. Or recorded without, but played-back with a Dolby B setting.
Well, something like that anyway. Greetz from Holland.
They sound different, probably due to size. However, the cost of these is crazy since only collectors can own these and nobody is actually playing in this style nowadays. Obviously, if I was going to record with one of these great American instruments, I would choose the L5, because it has a more vintage sound, in my opinion. But the L7 is supposed to be louder, because it’s larger. And that seems “modern” sized. The L7 was supposedly made for use by the big bands, so if you are playing big band music , then you would want an L7 to have an original sound. I like both. But the L5 has the mojo.
Are you also that one Tornado Chaser guy? Your voice is unmistakably the same.
Thanks for the video really awesome :) have you ever played an l50 in comparison?
Awesome that even tornadoes u chased liked
I know this is years late but just curious, do you play Gibson exclusively or maybe have a Martin for some projects?
Lovely video. The guitars sound amazing. Does anyone know what tuning Hank is using for his guitars, I love the sound.
Thanks Jay. Standard tunings on these tunes
You are too strong. I tried to fight it, but I had to subscribe. You make amazing videos, and you know how to play a vintage L7 and make it do what it should be doing. ...especially on your Sleep Walk video. In this video, the L5 sounds way way better. You can see it plays so much more easily than the L7. You seem to have to struggle and fight the L7. I think its action is too high, up high on the neck. And maybe the action on the L5 that you state is too low, maybe it kind of needs to be that low to get it playing so smoothly as you demonstrate. Thanks for the demo. I almost sold my 1941 L7 yesterday, and backed out. But the bridge needs to be lowered you like yours was. And I need one of those pickups. I am really glad I did not sell it after your Sleep Walk video blew me away. Thanks.
Whoa, Jeff Beck commented :D The action is so low on the L5, you don't even have to touch the strings. I'd hang on the that '41. Take care dude.
I enjoyed this!
Thanks for a great video!
Wow beautiful guitars, I would love 💔 a new one can I get one please
I believe that Gibson has discontinued both, along with about all of their other jazz boxes. Try Heritage.
Great video, great playing! But what about the strings? Flats? D'Adderio? 12's? Thanks!
I usually buy the cheapest strings on sale that day. These are flats. probably 11s, Probably different brands.
i have both guitars, the l5 is just more fancy on the finish, l7 the same awesome guitar
Finally, a viewer who gets the point.
what do you take on the road storm chasing when their is many hours of waiting on mother nature
My $20 classical.
Amazing.
Question, how is the string tension when you're playing, and do you use Flat-Wound strings?
Thank You.
Early classic period Gibsons are fine guitars and all have unique qualities-not all the same. No two hand crafted guitars are. That’s a good thing. The Reality is Gibsons like most factory guitars can vary. A few exceptional ones will stand out.
Nice video.
there's more reverb on the L7
Great review
Hank, I'm subscribed to Elderly Instruments out of Michigan. They always get in the coolest older instruments. I'm the 11,111 view. Doesn't that mean something? Ha., I don't know. Really enjoyed this video. @ 3:00 why did I think of a mail order bride? Prob because most players name and/or compare their guitars to a woman. Love your attention to detail.
Yes, you are a binary geek. Actually, there is nothing wrong with that.
Amplified I doubt I could tell the difference. But I like the acoustic sound of the darker sound L7 much more.
Q as I begin my long journey into playing like the great Montgomery (this is just a hobby for me,) just started learning, but I don't have 5 grand, so what year should I be looking at?
What kind of tone control is that on L7? I want to buy it!
If this is 36 vs 39, wouldn’t the construction differ? I understand that Gibson moved to 25.5 “ scale and parallel bracing in 1939. Is your L7 parallel or x braced?
- Extreme Jazz Snob
Both of these are X braced. And still sound a little different to the meticulous ear.
Pecos Hank thanks. I’m guessing they were still manufacturing some x braced guitars well into 1939. I’ve got a 37 myself. Wonderful instrument
Since you're going to want a pickup , my choice would be what I play , the more comfortable 1954 L4-C !!!
bravo
7 is more midrange-y, 5 is more scooped.
It look like the L7 sound slightly warmer, but hey, that can be my bad....
Actually it is right now. The L5 action is way too low right now making all sorts of twang.
I forgot to ask, what kind of strings are on this guitar?
Master guitarist
what are the differences in fretwire?
For shure, they do not sound the same. Maybe similar. Both sound great in your hands.
7 is brighter sounding
Nice video, Alabama
The L7 sounds a little darker. It could be the age of the strings.
What song is that at 5:00?
El Reno Blues
@@Isaiah_Stuartthx
The older the Gibson,THE BETTER!
Agreed. I'm susceptible to the aging Voodoo as well.
Might it also have something to do with Gibson’s continuing deterioration in build quality over the years?
Can hear a slight difference but not $4K worth.
You play so well 😍
dose a gibsonL7 CUSTOM SOUND THE SAME
nice one !! i feel the L7 has more "air" in the sound, and is less thick in the mediums. A bit like the diference between my L5 and my stromberg (the L5 being more thick in the mids like yours). Feel free to go have a listen
I'm logged into my other youtube channel, but Whoa! just went over and visited. Great guitar and singing! Subscribed.
@@PecosHank hey Hank, do you still have that 36 L5? do you have another video of it unplugged?
take Eddie LANG's route.......oval hole L4......beautiful ....LOOSE pickguard
That looks like pecos hank
Maybe Santa will bring me something cool...maybe some picks or sumpthin.
If you don't get picks, You can use Euros. Love your new video "Shine!" Keep Rockin' over there across the pond.
"Triple Nipple Fretboard Taper"!!! Shut up and take my money!!!
The tailpiece on the L7 is unoriginal. That model never came with that tailpiece.
L7 sounds better
Well its simple.
These are ACOUSTIC guitars. You’re using them with flatwound strings plugged in.
You’re not correctly comparing the tone.
Put bronze wound strings on them and play them acoustic, as they were intended to be.
There’s a huge difference.
Thanks!
If you like the sound of someone washing windows with a squeegee while you're playing, I agree, round wound are definitely the way to go.