Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $749
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "G&L S500 tribute". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The G&L Tribute S-500 is an embodiment of the rich heritage of electric guitar craftsmanship, designed by none other than Leo Fender himself. This solid body electric guitar is a testament to innovation and classic styling, offering musicians a harmonious blend of vintage charm and modern engineering. Crafted with a lightweight, resonant poplar body, it delivers a robust and clear sound that is both inviting and versatile.
One of the standout features of the S-500 is its Magnetic Field Design (MFD) single-coil pickups. These pickups provide a distinct single-coil punch and sparkle, ensuring that every note you play is vibrant and full of life. The Indian rosewood fretboard is a joy to play, offering smooth and responsive action for both intricate solos and rhythmic strumming.
Innovation doesn't stop there; the guitar also features a Dual-Fulcrum vibrato system. This system offers silky-smooth vibrato action, allowing you to bend notes with precision and maintain rock-solid tuning. Additionally, the PTB (Passive Treble and Bass) tone system provides extensive tone-shaping capabilities, including the unique ability to roll off low frequencies, making it particularly effective for high-gain applications.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate hobbyist, the G&L Tribute S-500 is a versatile instrument that can adapt to a variety of musical styles, from blues and rock to jazz and beyond.
Key Features:
- Lightweight, resonant poplar body
- Indian rosewood fretboard for impeccable playability
- Magnetic Field Design (MFD) single-coil pickups
- Dual-Fulcrum vibrato for smooth action and stable tuning
- PTB tone system with low-frequency roll-off
- Versatile control setup with 2 Tone controls, Master Volume, 3-way switch, and push-pull expander switch
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | Tribute S-500 |
| Body Material | Poplar |
| Body Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
| Neck Material | Hard Maple |
| Neck Shape | Medium C |
| Neck Joint | Bolt-on |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Material | Indian Rosewood |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22, Medium Jumbo Nickel |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Nut Material | Bone |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | G&L Dual Fulcrum Vibrato |
| Tuners | Cort Die-cast |
| Neck Pickup | G&L S-500 MFD Single-coil |
| Middle Pickup | G&L S-500 MFD Single-coil |
| Bridge Pickup | G&L S-500 MFD Single-coil |
| Controls | 1 x master volume, 2 x tone |
| Switching | 5-way blade pickup switch |
| Strings | D'Addario, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Sold Separately |
FAQs
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What type of pickups does the G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue use?
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The G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue is equipped with G&L S-500 MFD single-coil pickups in the neck, middle, and bridge positions, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for various music styles.
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How does the G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue differ from standard Stratocaster models?
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The G&L S500 Tribute features a unique PTB™ system for tone control and a mini-toggle switch for additional pickup combinations, offering more tonal versatility compared to standard Stratocasters.
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Is the G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue suitable for beginner guitarists?
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Yes, the G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue is suitable for beginners, offering comfortable playability with its medium C neck profile and a versatile range of tones from its MFD pickups, making it a great choice for players exploring different styles.
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What is the neck profile of the G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue?
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The G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue features a medium C neck profile, providing a comfortable grip that suits a wide range of playing styles, from rhythm to lead.
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Does the G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue come with a case or gig bag?
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The G&L S500 Tribute Sonic Blue is sold separately from a case or gig bag, so you may need to purchase one to protect your guitar during transport.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about G&L S500 tribute.
Features and functionality
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The G&L S500 Tribute uses USA-made Magnetic Field Design (MFD) pickups, known for higher output and deeper, darker tones compared to standard pickups.
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The guitar is perceived as a Strat with a different headstock, which could influence aesthetic preferences for some players.
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The 18:1 tuner ratio offers precise tuning adjustments, which, combined with the trem system, maintains stable tuning after settling from shipping.
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Comparisons
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Owners often prefer G&L over Fender Player Series due to the unique MFD pickups and perceived better tonal qualities, despite both having similar electrical components.
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The Tribute series is built in Indonesia but retains the same USA-made pickups as the American models, offering a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing key components.
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Some players prefer the G&L Tribute ASAT Deluxe over the ASAT Classic mainly when considering tele-style guitars, although availability can affect decision-making.
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One owner notes the sonic dynamics and clean sound of the S500's single coils outperform their Gibson SG with mini humbuckers in terms of clarity.
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Build quality
User experience
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Users appreciate the versatility of the S500, particularly enjoying the sound when all three pickups are engaged, enhancing its tonal range.
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A long-term player with 15 years of experience claims the S500 surpasses all guitars they have owned, indicating its potential longevity and satisfaction.
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The guitar's weight is noted as heavier than an SG and LP Special, potentially uncomfortable without a padded strap.
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Setup and maintenance
Value and pricing
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The G&L S500 Tribute is discounted from $770 to $500, presenting a significant value for those seeking quality without a high price tag.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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