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Average Price: $594

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Description

Leo Fender’s legacy shines through in the G&L Tribute Series S-500, a solid body electric guitar that marries classic design with modern innovations. Crafted with the discerning musician in mind, this guitar features a lightweight, resonant nato body that ensures comfort during long jam sessions or gigs. The Magnetic Field Design (MFD) single-coil pickups are the stars of the show, delivering a classic single-coil punch with a bright sparkle that doesn’t sacrifice midrange clarity. Whether you're seeking a punchy, dynamic sound or a glassy, detailed resonance, these pickups won't disappoint.

A key highlight of the S-500 is the Dual-Fulcrum vibrato, a signature Leo Fender innovation that offers silky smooth note bending with rock-solid tuning stability. This is achieved through its smart design, utilizing two pivot points instead of the traditional six screws, ensuring a more fluid and responsive vibrato action. Complementing this is the rosewood fingerboard, providing impeccable playability and response. The S-500 also features a versatile PTB (Passive Treble and Bass) system along with a push-pull expander switch, allowing for a wide array of tone-shaping options, including unique neck+bridge pickup combinations.

For musicians looking for an electric guitar that offers both tradition and innovation, the G&L Tribute Series S-500 is an exceptional choice that delivers both style and substance.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight and resonant nato body
  • Indian rosewood fingerboard for excellent playability
  • Magnetic Field Design (MFD) single-coil pickups for a punchy, dynamic sound
  • Dual-Fulcrum vibrato for smooth note bending and stable tuning
  • PTB system with two tone controls and a master volume
  • Push-pull expander switch for additional pickup configurations

Product specs

Brand G&L
Model Tribute Series S-500 with Maple Fretboard, Tribute Series S-500 with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Blueburst, Irish Ale, Sonic Blue, Tobacco Sunburst, Vintage White
Year 2010 - 2025
Made In Indonesia
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Nato, Poplar
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Blue, Brown, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 12"
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.625"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the G&L Tribute Series S-500 feature?

The G&L Tribute Series S-500 is equipped with three MFD (Magnetic Field Design) single-coil pickups, which are known for their high output and versatile tone capabilities.

How does the G&L Tribute Series S-500's PTB system work?

The PTB (Passive Treble and Bass) system on the G&L Tribute Series S-500 allows you to control treble and bass frequencies separately, offering a wider range of tonal possibilities compared to traditional tone controls.

Is the G&L Tribute Series S-500 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the G&L Tribute Series S-500 is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable Medium C neck profile and versatile tonal options, making it an excellent choice for players exploring different music styles.

What is the neck profile of the G&L Tribute Series S-500?

The G&L Tribute Series S-500 features a Medium C neck profile, which provides a comfortable and familiar feel for most players, accommodating both chordal and lead playing.

Does the G&L Tribute Series S-500 come with a tremolo bridge?

Yes, the G&L Tribute Series S-500 is equipped with a tremolo bridge, allowing for pitch modulation effects and enhancing the guitar's expressive capabilities.

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique G&L small MFD pickups offer a distinct, versatile tone

  • Excellent build quality, especially given its price range

  • Effective bass roll-off control for customizable sound

  • Push-pull feature provides out-of-phase tones

  • Delivers classic Strat sound with higher output

  • Stays in tune well, even without locking tuners

  • Resonant and plays well after a proper setup

  • Offers a wide range of tones, from funk to rock

CONS

  • Minor quality control issues like uneven volume knob and finish imperfections

  • Missing parts upon delivery, such as tremolo components

  • Pickups may lack punch for those preferring hotter outputs

Critic Reviews

Tribute S-500 Review: I find myself going to the G&L over my other guitars... | G&L | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

While the G&L Tribute Series S-500 delivers superb sound versatility and solid construction, it does come with some caveats. The Magnetic Field Design pickups offer a rich tonal palette, allowing for everything from blues to classic rock, but they do exhibit some 60-cycle hum that might require shielding. The quality is commendable, with a comfortable neck and a durable finish, yet the standard plastic nut feels like a missed opportunity for a higher-end material. Despite these drawbacks, the S-500 stands out for its playability and impressive sustain, making it a worthy contender for guitarists seeking a Strat-style experience without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a guitar that excels in multiple genres, the S-500 is a solid choice—just be prepared to invest a little time in minor adjustments.

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