Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$1,899.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$1,899.99
Reverb
5.0 (40)
$1,204.23 New
$859.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$1,899.99
zZounds
$1,899.99
Thomann
3.5 (2)
$1,555.00 $1,550.00 $5.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,639

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "D'Angelico Excel EXL-1". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 is a masterclass in blending time-honored tradition with modern innovation. Inspired by John D'Angelico's iconic New Yorker model, this semi-hollowbody electric guitar is a tribute to the jazz-era archtop guitars that defined a generation of musicians. Crafted with a laminated spruce top and flame maple back and sides, it delivers a resonant and articulate tone that thrives in both rhythm and lead scenarios.

The EXL-1 is distinguished by its Seymour Duncan Johnny Smith floating mini humbucker, which offers a focused, woody sound that complements the guitar's natural acoustic qualities. This pickup is suspended above the spruce top, allowing for enhanced resonance and dynamic range, making it ideal for jazz aficionados and experimental players alike.

The redesigned neck features a 3-piece maple/walnut construction that ensures robust playability and comfort, while the ebony fingerboard with Jescar fretwire provides a buttery-smooth playing experience that is both fast and responsive. Whether you're navigating complex chords or soaring through intricate solos, the EXL-1 offers a tactile and satisfying feel.

The guitar's old-school aesthetics are elevated with modern appointments, such as Grover 150 Imperial tuners and the classic D'Angelico stairstep tailpiece, ensuring tuning stability and a distinctive look. This is a guitar that not only looks the part but sounds the part, providing a harmonious balance of vintage charm and contemporary sophistication.

Key Features:

  • Hollowbody electric guitar with laminated spruce top and flame maple back and sides
  • 3-piece maple/walnut neck with C-shaped profile
  • Ebony fingerboard with 22 frets and mother-of-pearl split block inlays
  • Seymour Duncan Johnny Smith floating mini humbucker pickup
  • Master volume and tone controls mounted on pickguard
  • Grover 150 Imperial tuners and D'Angelico stairstep tailpiece
  • Deluxe hardshell case included

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Hollowbody
Body Shape Excel EXL-1
Body Material Laminated Flamed Maple
Top Material Laminated Spruce
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material 3-piece Maple/Walnut
Neck Shape C
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Mother of Pearl Split Block
Number of Frets 22 Jescar 47/104, Nickel-Silver
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.6875"
Nut Material GraphTech NuBone XL
Bridge/Tailpiece Floating Ebony Wood bridge, D'Angelico Stairstep Tailpiece
Tuners Grover 150 Imperial
Neck Pickup Seymour Duncan Johnny Smith Floating Mini Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 1 x tone
Strings D'Angelico Electrozinc Jazz, .012-.052
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of music is the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 best suited for?

The D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 is ideal for jazz and blues due to its warm, rich tones and hollowbody construction, which provides excellent resonance and sustain.

What is the neck profile of the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1?

The D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 features a C-shaped neck profile, offering a comfortable grip suitable for various playing styles, particularly beneficial for intricate jazz chord work.

Does the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 come with a case?

Yes, the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 comes with a hardshell case, providing protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

What kind of pickups does the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 have?

The D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 is equipped with a Seymour Duncan Johnny Smith Floating Mini Humbucker, which delivers clear and articulate tones perfect for jazz and clean styles.

Is the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 suitable for beginners?

While the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 offers professional-level features and tones, its playability and comfort make it accessible for dedicated beginners who are serious about learning jazz guitar.

D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

Introducing the Throwback Collection | D'Angelico Guitars

Video thumbnail for Introducing the Throwback Collection | D'Angelico Guitars by D'Angelico Guitars

Introducing the Throwback Collection | D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

Video thumbnail for Introducing the Excel Series EXL-1 & Style B | D’Angelico Guitars by D'Angelico Guitars

Introducing the Excel Series EXL-1 & Style B | D’Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

Video thumbnail for Isaiah Sharkey plays the Excel EXL-1 | D'Angelico Guitars by D'Angelico Guitars

Isaiah Sharkey plays the Excel EXL-1 | D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

Video thumbnail for D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 Demo by D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 Demo

D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

Video thumbnail for Marcus King x Excel EXL-1 Throwback | Artist Sessions | D'Angelico Guitars by D'Angelico Guitars

Marcus King x Excel EXL-1 Throwback | Artist Sessions | D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

D'Angelico Guitars

Video thumbnail for D'Angelico Excel EXL-1- First look and Honest Review - Killer Full Hollowbody by Ramona Music Center

D'Angelico Excel EXL-1- First look and Honest Review - Killer Full Hollowbody

Ramona Music Center

Ramona Music Center

Video thumbnail for D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 Review | D'Angelico Archtop Review by Rich Severson

D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 Review | D'Angelico Archtop Review

Rich Severson

Rich Severson

Video thumbnail for Unboxing the D'Angelico EXL-1   June 21 2022 by jake smith

Unboxing the D'Angelico EXL-1 June 21 2022

jake smith

jake smith

Video thumbnail for D'angelico Excel EXL-1 Hollowbody Archtop Guitar Demo: Rare Finish! by Rich Severson

D'angelico Excel EXL-1 Hollowbody Archtop Guitar Demo: Rare Finish!

Rich Severson

Rich Severson

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, mellow tone both acoustically and amped

  • Attractive vintage aesthetic with meticulous attention to detail

  • Versatile across genres like folk, blues, and jazz

  • Excellent build quality and fit and finish

  • Rich tone with floating humbucker for authentic vintage jazz sound

  • Thin, playable neck with smooth action

  • Great price-to-value ratio for a jazz box

CONS

  • Inconsistent build quality reported; potential fretwork issues

  • Tone pot sometimes ineffective in altering sound

  • Glossy neck may not appeal to all players

  • Limited acoustic resonance, especially from bass strings

  • Plastic components can seem cheap for the price range

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about D'Angelico Excel EXL-1.

Comparisons

  • Owners note that Eastman guitars have a clear, bell-like tone compared to the D'Angelico, which lacks this distinct sound quality when compared side-by-side.

    Source
  • Laminate wood guitars, like the Excel EXL-1, are defended against the notion that they can't produce quality jazz tones, highlighting legendary jazz boxes made from laminate.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the D'Angelico C carve neck over the Epi 339's big-shoulder D carve, citing better comfort and playability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adjusting the action on the Excel EXL-1 improves playability significantly, particularly given the guitar's large size.

    Source
  • Users emphasize trying multiple guitars due to variance in feel and quality, suggesting the importance of personal fit over internet reviews.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The mini humbucker pickup is described as warm and robust, offering a unique tonal experience compared to other pickups players have used.

    Source
  • The Excel EXL-1's floating pickup is praised for its acoustic volume when unplugged, making it suitable for acoustic practice.

    Source
  • The D'Angelico guitars, including the Excel EXL-1, are noted for their modern flat fretboard radius and C-shaped neck, offering excellent upper fret access.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user found a used Excel EXL-1 in black for $600, describing it as an exceptional bargain for the instrument's quality.

    Source

User experience

  • Transitioning to the Excel EXL-1 from a low-quality guitar can significantly enhance playing experience, removing limitations imposed by inferior instruments.

    Source
  • Guitar Center's consumer-friendly policy allows for trying multiple guitars before purchase, aiding in finding the right fit and sound.

    Source
  • Despite initial resistance to the ornate headstock design, users report growing accustomed to it over time, focusing more on sound and playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • One owner replaced the pickup with a Kent Armstrong 12 pole, indicating potential for improved tonal customization.

    Source
  • Owners have used suede straps to mitigate neck dive issues commonly found in semi-hollow and chambered body guitars.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar pairs well with flatwound strings to achieve a warm, traditional jazz tone, suitable for swing and jazz performances.

    Source
  • The Excel EXL-1's design, including the neck joint and body shape, is ideal for players frequently accessing higher frets, particularly lead guitarists.

    Source

Critic Reviews

D'Angelico EXL-1 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Aesthetically pleasing and reminiscent of jazz's golden age, the D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 excels in delivering a bell-like tone and strong character. However, it falls short in tonal versatility, particularly for players seeking a wide range of sounds. While its construction is commendable, the setup requires attention, especially regarding the nut grooves, which can lead to string sticking. The pickup's placement and limited volume level may not satisfy all acoustic players. If you're focused on vintage jazz tones and appreciate the craftsmanship, this guitar is worth considering, but it won’t cater to those looking for a broader sonic palette.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Marcus King uses D'Angelico Excel EXL-1

Marcus King

Guitarist

The Marcus King Band

...
Verified via YouTube

Marcus can be seen here playing a vintage burst EXL-1 Standard while performing "Wildflowers & Wine" for World Cafe.

See how Evan Honer uses D'Angelico Excel EXL-1

Evan Honer

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Amber

In the YouTube video titled Evan Honer - Everything I Wanted - The Album (Live From The Cloverdale House), Evan Honer is seen playing an Amber D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 guitar during the performance of the first song, "Everything I Wanted," from 0:13 to 4:21.

Album Usage

The D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use D'Angelico Excel EXL-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

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