GIBSON L5 vs GIBSON L7

Information about the prewar Gibson L5 and the Gibson L7.
An L5 this cherry will likely cost at least $8000, But you can find an fine L7in the $3-$4000 ballpark. It’s practically the same guitar, So what is the difference? Why does the Gibson L5 cost so much more than the Gibson L7.
Both guitars have a 17” bought, the same bracing, and the same maple neck.
The Gibson L5 was introduced In the 1920s as one of the finest instruments on the market. The carved tops and bottoms were even tap tuned. The Gibson L7 was Introduced in 1933 as a more affordable working-mans archtop. For the most part, It is an L5 with corners cut on the cosmetics.
The L5 has a fancier tailpiece and intricate layers of binding.
The L7 has a solid binding.
The L5 has a cool triple binding fretboard taper.
The L7’s is blunt flat.
The L5 has a beautiful finish on the back and sides.
This L7 has a plain dark finish on the back and sides.
This L5 has brass hardware.
This L7’s is nickel plated.
This L5 has an ebony fingerboard
and this L7has a Brazilian rose wood fingerboard.
What does all this mean? It means the Gibson L5 looks prettier, But they sound and perform the same.
It’s very unlikely you can walk into a guitar shop in your town and compare 2 or 3 of these prewar Gibsons. You’re probably going to have to search for them online, and dropping this kind of money on something you cant play or touch can be a little unnerving. You’re probably gonna want some kind of return guarantee…
I found my L7 listed on reverb dot com from Sylvan music in California and they offered a 7 day full money back return. I asked the salesman there if he would send me a video of someone playing it and they happily obliged. Then sent me several more photos of the guitar, high res enough for me to meticulously look it over for cracks and what not. One thing you might want to request is that the salesman send you a photo of the sag. Decades of string tension often flattens out the arch top.This L5 has some typical flattening and it appears that the bridge was custom made, later to accommodate that uneven incline.
I scored this L7 for $3000 expecting to invest a lot more. It’s got several nicks and scratches, and two of the inlays were dug out by a previous owners miles of fretting with long fingernails, and then hacked with some kind of silly putty and tinfoil job. For only a few years in the late 30’s Gibson used these extremely cool picture frame inlays.
When it arrived, I was surprised what great overall condition it was in The neck was straight and the body solid with no surprises and very little sag. The thing I love most about this L5 is the way it sounds married to the vintage DeArmond super rhythm chief 1100 floating pick-up, So my L7 had to have one too.
I found this 1960’s rhythm chief and control box on for $600. It arrived in perfect working condition. I found the reissue L5 pick guard for $60 and the neck rod for $12.
I cut out two new inlays with a jewel saw and sent all the hardware to Neil Sergeant in Houston Texas for assembly. With the Gibson L5, the cable just dangles out of the control box, asking to be stepped on and violently jerked out of the input. It’s either that or drill a hole… That’s the problem with this L5. Its too damn nice and pretty to jack up! To me, the L5 is a collector, Its a home guitar and studio tool. My guitars get the hell played out of em. And the gibson L7 is truly a much more sensible working-mans guitar. So, out came the drill again... This cable jack is going in the tailpiece.

[@jeriatrix4526]

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.

[@Adamfront]

Hardly anybody remembers how highly regarded Harry Reser was or what an amazing player he was.

[@roymoderatto]

I actually prefer the sound of the L-7. Very similar, though.. I own a 1950 L-50. Sweet!

[@johnharshfield4726]

Your comparison commentary was perfect as I contemplate buying a good jazz guitar :-)

[@anthonymichna7900]

I never thought I would stumble across my favorite tornado chaser while searching for classic Gibson models lol. Cheers Hank!

[@anthonymichna7900]

How amazing to find my favorite tornado chaser discussing the legend Gibson L-5! Happy trails Hank

[@opheluna]

Both sound and look beautiful. I could listen to you just play random shiz for hours. Thanks for sharing!

[@PecosHankMusic]

There's plenty of random shiz out there. Thanks Adyren.

[@pandorasflame7742]

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!

[@SteveTemplePilot]

I'm listening on laptop speakers and I can hear a noticeable difference. Both sound great, just different. I personally prefer the L5.

[@willysunday]

thanks for this ... great comparison and nice tour through both models...

[@benmiddleton9984]

The L7 sounds brighter to my ears. Both sound fabulous!

[@gs3173]

Thank you for taking the time to make this!

[@jimmycoganshow7661]

I certainly enjoyed the playing and the advice. Thanks!

[@stevelongobardi6870]

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.

[@grahamclark2699]

Great video. Ive owned all these instruments. L5 was warmer in the sound than L7. 30's Gibson archtops are great.

[@kirkp_nextguitar]

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.

[@GoGianRusso]

I have that 1936 L5 now. Good picking!! Excellent monologue.

[@johnlebarton9220]

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.

[@peepoclunker4213]

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.

[@pattyallen1037]

What song is that at 5:00?

[@Isaiah_Stuart]

El Reno Blues

[@pattyallen1037]

​@@Isaiah_Stuartthx

[@LeoAbukar]

@@Isaiah_Stuarthow about the on at 2:14 ?

[@adaptableadventurerider]

Thanks for the video really awesome :) have you ever played an l50 in comparison?

[@bielanski2493]

i like the difference in release/falloff between the two

[@EduardoMercuri]

Amazing!! I actually like the L7 sound on your video better

[@Sherman1862]

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' !!!

[@kurtnoble5306]

Are you also that one Tornado Chaser guy? Your voice is unmistakably the same.

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!

[@toddheimbuch5429]

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

[@proinseasokiellig4388]

Do you storm chase too? Lovely playing btw :)

[@jaywatson6524]

Lovely video. The guitars sound amazing. Does anyone know what tuning Hank is using for his guitars, I love the sound.

[@PecosHankMusic]

Thanks Jay. Standard tunings on these tunes

[@JavierTijuana]

Very informative video. It is of great help. Thank you.

[@kinochdotcom]

The L5 sounds warmer to me and not quite as twangy as the L7

[@InfoArtistJK]

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).

[@The31262]

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!

[@jimsuber6784]

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.

[@myflatlineconstruct]

I know this is years late but just curious, do you play Gibson exclusively or maybe have a Martin for some projects?

[@scarylII]

Great video, great playing! But what about the strings? Flats? D'Adderio? 12's? Thanks!

[@PecosHank]

I usually buy the cheapest strings on sale that day. These are flats. probably 11s, Probably different brands.

[@SteveCothern]

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 :)

[@jacksonyt8499]

It'd be great to see you guys live, really like the music you play, plus I love storm chasing!

[@PecosHank]

Hope to swing through your town one day soon.

[@toddheimbuch5429]

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

[@h1pst3r88]

2010 Custom Shop L-7C owner here, thanks for the awesome comparison. Bling doesn't make it sing ;-)

[@lespaulsoundwave]

h1pst3r88 L7’s are junk compared to L5

[@vampolascott36]

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.

[@PecosHank]

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

[@johnlebarton9220]

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).

[@analogalien]

Great video.

[@mbwebdesign]

What kind of tone control is that on L7? I want to buy it!

[@hkguitar1984]

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.

[@RavnerRavner]

what are the differences in fretwire?

[@1specificfrequency220]

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.

[@Sunshine-Light]

Superb playing.... guess you deserve the guitars

[@hkguitar1984]

Amazing. Question, how is the string tension when you're playing, and do you use Flat-Wound strings? Thank You.

[@Coolcatgrooves]

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?

[@stormnchill]

Hank is also a virtuoso?! Wow

[@moelester2203]

what do you take on the road storm chasing when their is many hours of waiting on mother nature

[@PecosHank]

My $20 classical.

[@JuanHernandez-uq5ld]

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

[@PecosHank]

Both of these are X braced. And still sound a little different to the meticulous ear.

[@JuanHernandez-uq5ld]

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

[@gs3173]

I forgot to ask, what kind of strings are on this guitar?

[@Sunshine-Light]

Wow beautiful guitars, I would love 💔 a new one can I get one please

[@johnlebarton9220]

I believe that Gibson has discontinued both, along with about all of their other jazz boxes. Try Heritage.

[@mfledermauskonig8949]

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.

[@FrankHeuvelman]

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.

[@coreyfox4864]

there's more reverb on the L7

[@wildguy4773]

Awesome that even tornadoes u chased liked

[@bok2bok333]

Nice video.

[@HMJohnsonGuitar]

I enjoyed this!

[@ACOUSTIC_4LOVE]

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.

[@Jay_Kay_1625]

Thanks for a great video!

[@robertjenkins5999]

7 is more midrange-y, 5 is more scooped.

[@jpsholland]

It look like the L7 sound slightly warmer, but hey, that can be my bad....

[@PecosHank]

Actually it is right now. The L5 action is way too low right now making all sorts of twang.

[@darrellkatz1920]

Amplified I doubt I could tell the difference. But I like the acoustic sound of the darker sound L7 much more.

[@lucylola138]

Great review

[@sweetsally1313]

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.

[@johnlebarton9220]

Yes, you are a binary geek. Actually, there is nothing wrong with that.

[@jeffbeck6501]

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.

[@PecosHank]

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.

[@MuriMorello]

i have both guitars, the l5 is just more fancy on the finish, l7 the same awesome guitar

[@johnlebarton9220]

Finally, a viewer who gets the point.

[@andreasfetzer7559]

For shure, they do not sound the same. Maybe similar. Both sound great in your hands.

[@robertchallen]

Nice video, Alabama

[@cate533]

dose a gibsonL7 CUSTOM SOUND THE SAME

[@cate533]

bravo

[@Bobby007D]

Since you're going to want a pickup , my choice would be what I play , the more comfortable 1954 L4-C !!!

[@DaigoParry]

7 is brighter sounding

[@themusiccovenant]

Master guitarist

[@petemccarry2326]

The L7 sounds a little darker. It could be the age of the strings.

[@Weshopwizard]

Can hear a slight difference but not $4K worth.

[@benmiddleton9984]

The older the Gibson,THE BETTER!

[@PecosHankMusic]

Agreed. I'm susceptible to the aging Voodoo as well.

[@johnlebarton9220]

Might it also have something to do with Gibson’s continuing deterioration in build quality over the years?

[@ankitashilpa6022]

You play so well 😍

[@AcousticStandards]

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

[@PecosHank]

I'm logged into my other youtube channel, but Whoa! just went over and visited. Great guitar and singing! Subscribed.

[@AcousticStandards]

@@PecosHank hey Hank, do you still have that 36 L5? do you have another video of it unplugged?

[@Zilatran]

That looks like pecos hank

[@THEjohnnyfalstaff]

Maybe Santa will bring me something cool...maybe some picks or sumpthin.

[@PecosHank]

If you don't get picks, You can use Euros. Love your new video "Shine!" Keep Rockin' over there across the pond.

[@jaeztheone]

take Eddie LANG's route.......oval hole L4......beautiful ....LOOSE pickguard

[@hairyrichardson8921]

"Triple Nipple Fretboard Taper"!!! Shut up and take my money!!!

[@christopherpage9859]

The tailpiece on the L7 is unoriginal. That model never came with that tailpiece.

[@mykolfornasero3631]

L7 sounds better

[@lespaulsoundwave]

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!

[@PecosHankMusic]

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.