G&L

Active

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 1979
HQ: Fullerton, California, United States
Employees: ~12
Parent: BBE Sound (acquired after 1991)

Indexes

Guitar

Overview

G&L Musical Instruments produces electric guitars and basses with designs derived from classic Fender models, incorporating innovations by founder Leo Fender. The brand operates from Fullerton, California, offering instruments made in the USA, Japan, and Indonesia across various price ranges.¹²³

History

G&L was founded in 1979-1980 by Leo Fender, George Fullerton, and Dale Hyatt as an extension of Fender's CLF Research, focusing on advanced guitar and bass designs. After Leo Fender's death in 1991, BBE Sound acquired the company and has continued its operations. Instruments are still produced in the original Fullerton factory.¹²³⁸

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
USA Made Series	Premium American-built guitars and basses	$1,500 - $4,000
Tribute Series	USA-designed, overseas production	$500 - $1,200
Legacy Series	Classic Fender-inspired models	$1,200 - $2,500
ASAT Series	Telecaster-style guitars	$800 - $3,000
Comanche Series	Versatile offset-waist guitars	$1,000 - $3,500

Manufacturing

Top-end models are handmade in Fullerton, California, using CNC shaping with hand finishing. Other models are produced in Japan and Indonesia.²³⁵⁶

Notable Products

ASAT Classic - Telecaster-style guitar with Magnetic Field Design pickups.
Legacy HB - Stratocaster-style guitar with humbucking pickups.
Tribute Rampage - Modern bass with active electronics.
Comanche - Offset guitar blending Strat and Jazzmaster elements.
L-2000 Bass - Versatile bass with multiple voicing options.

Reputation

G&L is respected among enthusiasts for its Leo Fender heritage, quality USA craftsmanship, and innovative features like the Magnetic Field Design pickups. Professionals such as Jerry Cantrell use G&L instruments. Some note higher prices compared to mass-produced alternatives, though quality justifies it for many.¹⁶

Sources (8)