Sire H7 Larry Carlton Guitar Review

[@trenthesterman6413]

I was one of Larry cariltons many guitar tecks for around 3 years, I've played and changed strings on his famous Gibson 335 many times. What a wonderful instrument it truly is. I would like to try one of these guitars. Larry is a really great guy and is really great to work for. A real pro !!!

[@makinganoise6028]

Have you had a chance to?

[@JackTheSkunk]

What is your opinion on the neck width issue?

[@trenthesterman6413]

@@JackTheSkunk I only played a Sier once just for a minute, so I don't have any opinion on the neck.

[@ericfleischauer5863]

You misspelled “tech” and Carlton

[@vovagreen7414]

@@JackTheSkunk вроде как сначала...они делали шею 40 мм...однако сейчас делают 43 мм. я несколько раз дотошно интересовался на томмане!

[@tnvalleyyoga7122]

I purchased a black one with gold hardware, which I never thought I would like but I got a magnificent price and couldn't resist. I've been playing for about 3 years and feel I'm learning at a fast pace (I'm also 70 years of age). I like blues with a little jazzy mixed in and feel this guitar fits right in.

[@socialmeaslesinpartnership1252]

The Seth Lover to my ear was a little more smoothly balanced across the strings. Not really a kick-arse difference but you certainly played better through it. I don't think you can expect the full-range ultra-woody beauty of a s/coil jazz-box sound from this sort of guitar. They can be played standing right in front of 100watt Marshall Plexis dialled loud enough to play a farm and there are compromises. They're used a lot in fusion for that reason - a jazz-box hollow body would explode! I find similar. I have two H7s, a humbucker and a P90 job but my Gibson es335 remains my favourite to play. Small margins but the price difference is huge and I can play a Sire in a bar gig where I wouldn't consider a high-dollar guitar and that's an important consideration for me. Lovely playing, thank you.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I'm glad they made the secobd version with a regular nut width (43mm) and the P90 is an interesting variation.

[@noternunstoned]

I have a 1968 Gibson ES 335 just like Larry Carlton and I can tell you the nut width is also 40mm or just over 1 1/2". That's pretty narrow but I have small hands so it never really bothered me. The other thing is the neck profile is a big C chunky one, great for anchoring your palm for big bends. I just wanted to share this for comparison I was wondering if you could do a shootout with your /heritage (wonderful company) against the LC Sire> Love you channel and playing, /jazz rules.

[@bluegiraffe7858]

The Seth Lover and H7 pickups both sound great. Just depends on the vibe you need. Nice playing, too.

[@adamrowan-lovell6051]

Really liked the Seth Lover SD pickup once it was installed and could hear quite a difference in the high end register. Thanks for the review. I'm not a Jazz player but I like to watch reviews on guitars that I will potentially get. Getting the whole picture in different styles always helps me. Love your content 🎉😊

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thank you! Glad it helps making a decision.

[@zHumanfactor]

A superb review, thank you! I actually liked the stock pickups better, they seemed to have a stronger, more interesting tone.

[@alexdaneau186]

It's a question of taste but i agree whit you...Cleaner, clearer sound.

[@adriennelee1520]

Raise the pickups on the bass side for more bass.. might work to bring more of that out in this guitar.

[@gts9397]

I vote for the original pickup, it really articulated better your great touch.

[@jamesmargulis332]

Great review, Sandy! That axe looks just awesome. Agree on the SL pickups, they're much clearer and more low end.

[@edge1289]

I just received mine today in see thru red. First Impressions are this is a great guitar for the money. The finish is flawless, I like both neck and bridge pickups and wouldn’t bother to change them. Nice review!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Did you get the new model with the 43mm standard nut or the older one with the 40mm nut?

[@edge1289]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman the 43mm nut, I have big 🙌!

[@tisbonus]

Absolutely excellent playing! Yes, the Seth Lover PU is going to sound warmer as it is lowpassing the signal more than the Carlton's. True PAF's tend to be warmer seeing as Seth created those as well for Gibson. This H7 is suited for Fusion music, which is/was Larry's staple.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

▶ Jazz Guitar Equipment Recommendations List: redir.love/thocf/znzfg0ps2l ▶ Starter Packs with 5 easy lessons/songs: guitarversum.com/shop/starter-packs/?sp=spall& ▶ Become a member and get access to Mini Lessons: kzbin.infojoin

[@tieukhavu8832]

❤🎉🤗😘 Schön dich Wiederzusehen Sandra. Du versüßt mir den Abend

[@frettyman87]

I bought this guitar based on its value, playability and quality, which are all undeniable for the money. I have small fat hands with short stubby "sausage' fingers, so the narrow string spacing at the nut is perfect for me. While its true that the H7 pickup is slightly brighter, its not brittle or biting, either by itself or in a mix. I play through a DV Mark 'Little Jazz' amp with 8" speaker, which makes the guitar sound even better. On the neck pickup, I roll off the tone and volume slightly, then add just a touch of bass and mid on the amp, with the treble straight up. The result is a beautiful, sweet, smooth mellow jazz tone that works for me in any setting. I also have a Sire T7 that gets a great jazz tone for a solid body with the same 'Little Jazz' amp. Then, I take my Helix Stomp XL & turn the T7 into a monster rock guitar for playing covers or metal. If I only bring one guitar to a gig where multiple genres are required, I bring the T7. Then, I can go from playing light jazz dinner music, to rocking' out for the after-dinner dancing with the same guitar and amp! The 'Little Jazz' turns into a beast with the Helix. Of course, for larger rooms, it must go through the PA. But it works great. Plus, I can carry my entire rig into the gig in one trip and don't need a cart! For strictly Jazz gigs, the H7 has been my preferred go-to guitar. The playability, tone and warmth are unsurpassed by any other jazz guitars I've played, even those that are much more expensive. Carlton and Sire hit a home run here.

[@glennbucc7107]

Thank you for your truthful review on the good and bad of the guitar. The Seth Lover pickups are so much better. Warmer, fuller and more body. The poly on the guitar is so shiny that it has a little plastic look to me. I think I will keep my Gibson 335 with the calibrated pickups.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

The original (Gibson) is always best 😁. But the Sire is a good low budget alternative or a backup guitar.

[@glennbucc7107]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman : True, but for my taste, the Epiphone 335 would be my preferred choice. But I agree the Sire is a very good guitar for its price.

[@jamescoughlan8193]

Came to check out the guitar , I know nothing about jazz guitar but enjoyed your review very much. Unfortunately I don't have your highly trained ear so both pick ups sounded great to me and in fairness you are one of those people who could make a broom handle and a piece of string sound good.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Aawh, thank you 😍

[@alexandereisen3486]

Hey I absolutely love my Sire!!!!! For the price point it’s an absolutely beautiful guitar.

[@rodney4266]

Round the binding with a file at a 45 angle I do this all the time on new guitars. Just a few passes and u have a old guitar feel. It's easy and u can't tell the file should be fine

[@robertblagg4718]

Great review. I have one of these guitars and it has become my go-to jazz guitar. The input jack on mine came apart at the start of a gig. So I recommend getting that replaced with a heavy duty jack and a locking nut. Its also a very heavy guitar but that helps the sustain. Its an incredible guitar for the money. The thin neck is probably not good if you are a finger picker. but for chording and single note playing, it is fantastic.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I was very surprised by the quality. The frets are perfectly rounded at the edges, they just didn't polish them. But that's easy dobe and acceptable for a €600 guitar.

[@StayHomeEatGreat]

Ditto, I recommend switching the jack for a switch craft right away. I did mine as soon a I noticed the stock one slipping.

[@tomasvanecek8626]

Your sound assessment is spot on. From technical point - no real (read Gibson) ES-335 has ebony FB, bound F holes or bookmatched 2pc top, as it has always a one piece pressed plywood top and back .. so this here is a veneer. I understand why they call it H7 (even if they "copied" Carlton´s ES ), no way you can expect it to sound exactly like a 335.

[@BHAKTIBROPHY]

Seth Lover p/u sweetened the low range tone, and cut the twangy highs, which were unusually high for a semi hollow neck pickup. Seth Lover reminded me of the Bill Laurence L500 pickup I put in the neck position in my Ibanez Roadstar II in 1983. I could play everything from Van Halen, Floyd, rockabilly, jazz, etc, on that guitar after installing that pickup. I would definitely look into installing a Seth Lover if I bought this guitar (honestly, at that price point, I would probably buy an Ibanez Artcore semi hollow body. I had one I had to sell in 2007 due to spine injury. That was only$300 and after I set it up it was SWEET. ) Thank you for your videos.

[@makinganoise6028]

Just bought one with P90's, tried both, the HB had nicer bridge, but the P90 swung it on the neck, suggest people do the same on pickups, to see what best suits them, as far as build and finish, both are impeccable.

[@sonambula69]

Hi! In my opinion, the Seth lover SD sounds more low and I missed the high richness , the Sire pickup sound a quite more versatile in my opinion, greetings from Argentina

[@socialmeaslesinpartnership1252]

I have a Sire H7v - P90s. The nut width is 43.5. I also have a Gibson vos es335 1960 re-issue which has the same, and a Sire H7 which is the same. I think Sire have revised the ultra-skinny neck width which caused a lot of comment. They are extremely good guitars in almost every respect. The set-up on the H7 when I received it was unplayable and needed careful work on the nut and both these Sires have p/up switches which are less-than 100%. Selecting the treble is hit-and-miss, occasionally most of the output shorting out somewhere. I haven't yet determined whether this is a harness or switch problem - I suspect the switch isn't the best quality. Strange - everything else seems to be well above average for the price-point. In one, I gave it a blow-through via the f-hole with an aerosol of compressed air and now I've remembered, I'll try that with the other one. It may work but neither of these guitars get daily use - they are for gigs, the very area where you don't want to mess around. Time will tell! In this sort of guitar that's a headache that nobody needs, a bench job and half-a-day's work. I've done this before but for some, that's a trip to the repair shop or return it. Sire definitely need to look at that. How do they measure up to a choice PAF-loaded es335? Actually, very well indeed. You can gig, rehearse, record, audition etc with no trouble at all - very high quality, pro-grade instruments at a reachable price.

[@colinohare]

Thank you for the in depth review. I don't hear any real notable difference between the sound of the Sire v the lover PU maybe it feels different when you play it, but sound wise I doubt I could justify the cost of the PU change and surely you can dial in a bit more bottom end and eq . Considering one of these I'm not a Jazz player but kinda want to get a bit of jazz going on for my own developement. Thank you.

[@ronolds258]

I believe the Seth Lover pickup is a good change for you . Not only warmer but a lot of possiblity for more bass tone depending on what kind of amp you choose !!

[@trafyknits9222]

I own a Sire H7 and it is the best playing guitar I own. My others are: Les Paul Standard (custom), PRS, 1978 Strat, Gibson 335, Gibson 339, and many other good guitars. The Sire plays so easily and the frets are excellent. For about $700, it's hard to find any guitar that plays better and feels better in your hands.

[@davidpatrick1813]

I think both pickups are great and they do sound different. I had seen some tubes where a couple commented similar and said the tone knob would adjust to a different level. One site ohmed the H7 pickups and said they were quite good. I ordered one and hope to see how it sounds with a yet to arrive DV Jazz little amp too. Perhaps I'll learn enough to play super well... It would have been interesting to see the difference in ohm readings.,

[@tommywallberg]

Exactly what I wanted to hear and watch. I have as well a H7 and find the sound a bit spiky. However I’ll guess the guitar sound appeal to rock as well. But I think you made a point that I noticed as well. Just been considering different pickup options which can be a bit overwhelming so I appreciated your tips to improve this beautiful guitar. Thx!

[@tommywallberg]

May I ask you to which pots did you change? Linear, etc.. many thx

[@classiccovers7]

The guitar have treble bleed circuit, roll off the volume knob and you'll get warmer sound without losing volume

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I know that 😊. I always review the guitars at everything full open, though, to see what their natural "out-of--box sound is.

[@gerdvanjuuten1581]

Saw it in your Mr. Bojangles video and was wondering when you do a review on it. Looks beauiful! The original pickups sound good to my ears.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

It was perfect for that tune :-)

[@michaelfern945]

Thanks for the review. I preferred the Lover pickup in the neck postion. It was a little fuller in the bass and less bright to my ear.

[@jefferzone61]

I love a truly candid opinion on just about anything... Difference in pickups? Not really noticeable through my phone - but the pots swap is great advice! "Any chain is only as strong as it's weakest link." The most useful insight, to me, was the neck width/string spacing comment - that's a really significant dimension for me. Thanks again!!!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Glad it's helpful. It's funny Larry picked sich a narrow neck, but I guess he was used to it from his Gibson. He has pretty large hands.

[@timothydaniels504]

I really learn a lot from your guitar reviews. My hands are about the same size as your’s and my right shoulder tightens up when I play guitars with wide bouts. Recently I purchased a Comins GCS-1ES. It’s a smaller guitar like that gorgeous De’Angelico you have. I was unable to find that instrument in Canada so I checked out the Comins, it’s a gem that I think you’d find similar to your De’Angelico. I vote for Seymour’s Seth Lover. Thank you as always for everything you share with guitarists. Your guitar arrangements are marvellous and I love how reliable and easy it is to purchase pdf’s etc through your website. Happy New Year🎉

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

What a geat buy, Danile! I'd love one of those, but custom fees are very high here.

[@spivvo]

I was subscribed to your channel and then you disappeared… I was searching like mad because I remembered a video you did comparing affordable guitars but didn’t remember your name. I ended up buying an H7 a month ago and now you pop up on my recommended videos with this video. How strange is that? Please don’t disappear again. Glad I found You again:)

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I post videos on a weekky basis. The algorithm must've worked against you. If you subscribe and click the bell notificatilns in one of my videos, that can't happen again 😊

[@luishiguera3995]

Thanks!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thanks so much, Louis! ❤️ Next week I'm back with Chord Melody lessons, yay! 😊

[@blackiewheeler4706]

For that jazz sound the Seth Lover is smooth however for my playing style I like the original Carlton pickup. Both are great. Thanks for the review.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

The Sire pickup is really good in a band context.

[@stephenlarcovic9654]

I liked the sound of the Sire pickups; more clarity. The Set Lover sounds nice; less high end, flat tone.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I don't know where you listened on, but the SL definitely had a lot more clarity, despute the warm tone.

[@mefistofer]

My experience was bittersweet, mine came bad, I believe from factory, terrible fretboard finish, my first and second frets had like 0.5mm gap on the straight edge sitting over the wood, I had to remove the frets, refinish the fretboard and I went to medium frets. After the fix I loved it, very stable. I did email Sire about the problem, their answer was discouraging at best. Mine was pre owned so I had no warranty. My luthier said the fretboard didn't feel like ebony and some dye was applied to it which stayed on my fingers for a while... all and all I'm happy now, but be careful when you buy, can't say much good about quality control.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Sorry you had that experience. You can't be sure though, if the previous owner did something to that guitar. The dye is suspicious. Never experienced anything like that. The frets weren't polished on mine too. But otherwise they were cut and set up really well.

[@william7108]

You might want to just try adjusting the pickups a little bit maybe the pole pieces a little bit on the EA and D see if that gives you a little bit more bottom end sometimes just a minor adjustment makes a big difference not sure if it'll work on that but for the minimal effort might be worth a try

[@bandit4915]

Thanks for the Great review ....Just ordered one of these yesterday and already have the Seth Lovers ready to put in it. So this video only solidified my decision. The S.L. pick ups are slightly more articulate and the string volumes are more even sounding. This guitar will stay at home for chord melody work and not see a live gig. ( I think )

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Exactly! Thanks for puting it into more eloquent words than I was able to. The string volumes are indeed more even with these pickups. I just made a new video, which you'll probably find interesting. I compared 3 of my jazz guitars that all have the Seth Lover pickups in them, but the guitars are very different in size and woods. Video will be up in 2 months I think.

[@deanrichard3193]

The pickup comparison is interesting. I had a 1969 Gibson 335 for years, which is supposedly the same model guitar the Sire is imitating. (Like a fool, I sold it, but that's another story.) I also really like Seth Lover pickups and have them in several of my guitars, so I am familiar with both sounds. From memory, i would say the Sire pickups duplicate the original 335 pickups quite well, and sound more like my 1969 335 than the Seth Lovers. But the Seth Lovers sound great in their own way, so it really comes down to taste. If you account for tiny differences in pickup height adjustment, etc. (which can have a big effect) it is impossible for me to say one is better than the other. Both the Sire and Lover pickups are Alnico 2 humbuckers, and I believe both are unpotted. The Seth Lovers might be a tiny bit hotter, but neither is a hot pickup. Thank you for this comparison, it is very helpful to me. I have been considering getting one of these Sire guitars, and have wondered if upgrading to Seth Lovers would be necessary or desirable.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Interesting, thanks! Are you sure about the Sire using unwaxes pups? That was not my impression. I can hear a clacky sound whenever I hit the Seth Lover. I didn't hear that playing the original Sire pup (I still have the Sire bridge pup in there).

[@deanrichard3193]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman McKnight also mentions that he keeps an extensive database of guitar pickups and knows their sound, and he says these Sire pickups are a very close match to the Gibson 57 classic pickup. He also goes on about the narrow neck, but the narrow neck is one of the things I remember about my '69 ES335, so it is historically accurate.

[@sttarch5150]

I put Lovers in an Epiphone dot, and Pearly Gates in an Epiphone LP. Changed the pots . Saved about 7k.

[@christopherwatkins9729]

G'Day Sandra ... So glad I found your "channel"... Your 'understanding' & comments are enjoyable to view and listen too ... Yes... the ES-335 is a large guitar (?) possibly you would prefer the ES-339 (which I have)... but you would certainly "Luvvv" my Jazz Hollowbody Archtop with single Humbucker... and so: Large, Middling or Smaller (Auditorium/Orchestral) ??? I am thinking you would play 'ALL' to perfection... ... Am looking forward to more of your possible reviews ???? Cheers... Chris 🤠... (# Both Pick-ups sounded 'Good' but am thinking you made correct decision and choice for 'upgrade') ... (It is always "personal" taste for tones/woods/pick-ups... etc... and that is the Fun of variety of Guitars !!!!!!!) ☘ ...

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Welcome to the jazz ride on my channel, Christopher. I agree, a guitar is a highly personal thing. And I'm so glad that therw are so many different tyoes available. The Seth Lover pup us the perfect mix of great dynamucs (something that's more of a feel for the player than audibly perceived by the listener) and clarity in tone, while still having a warm tone.

[@revelationsoundstudio]

The Seth Lover pickups are much warmer and more jazz sounding. The lacquer they use on the guitar looks a little plastic looking in the video. i wonder how the Epiphone 335 would compare with Seth Lover pickups?

[@btbb3726]

Another practical, succinct, yet thorough guitar revue. Thank You!

[@GreggBennett-j3p]

FYI, mid 60’s 335’s and 330’s have 1 9/16” nut width. I own a ‘67. Regarding string spacing, on my ‘67 the nut string spacing is the same as my Strat (I don’t own any other gibsons to compare to). The thing I hate about my ‘67 is the std string spacing puts the strings closer to the edge of the neck and it’s very easy to pull the high E string off. Low E side isn’t an issue. This is a well known and often discussed thing with 60’s 335/330 guitars. I’d never buy one, personally. I’ve had my ‘67 since the early 80’s when I traded a late 60’s Strat for it. I feel like I got the short end of the stick on that one.

[@DanceOfTime]

Seth Lover SD pickup! The low end definitely popped up in a very pleasant way. The highs are also sparkly. Excellent mod!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thanks!

[@EbonyPope]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman Tabs for the intro part you're playing? Greetings from Braunschweig.

[@rjroth4869]

I'm looking at getting one of these so I really appreciated the review. For jazz, I prefered the fuller, bassier sound of the Seth Lover pickups but I would have been interested to hear the H7 neck pickup with the tone rolled off a bit. In other reviews online that warms up the sound. Of course that does not address the "thinner" sound on the lower strongs.

[@h1strat]

I changed out both pickups to Seth Lovers and my opinion is that the sound has a little more body to it. I recorded a few samples and I have to switch clips mid stream to hear it.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

A lot of it has to do with the different feeling you get as the player. Often nuances aren't hearable by the audience, but there's a big difference in feeling, like the dynamics or attack of a pickup.

[@clyderichardson6475]

I appreciated hearing the two pickups. I have not heard that on any other videos. I would think of the Seth pickup for my Ibanez AF.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Definitely worth it!

[@alanoffer]

The ebony fretboard will brighten up the tone , I think I could live with the original pick-up , excellent review,the best on you tube 💫

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thank you kindly! Yes, Ebony has fast attack and us a bit brighter. But I still find this guitar to be surprisingly warm sounding, even with the original pups.

[@NightbirdSara316]

I love the mellow sound with the Seth Lover pickups. It was to me a warm richer tone without a muddled sounding muddled. The new pickups brings out out the lowes. Thanks for sharing the info on the pickups and guitar review.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Couldn't agree more!

[@jjdillon2007]

Sandra, I agree. After playing my Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion III, my Gibson ES-335 feels a little awkward.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Ha, you play the same guitars as me 😊.

[@bruceboome]

Definitely the Seth Lover. Apart from the warmth and extra bass, i loved the way harder picking gave lovely extra sparkle.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Totally agree!

[@wesboundmusic]

Very sympathico walkthrough and demo, really love(d) it! (German actually is my native tongue as well, but the internet is all English, so... ;-) ). Didn't hear _that much_ of a difference between the original pickups and the Seth lover, but... I'm sure, some will have identified a noteable difference. Love your playing, really jazzy feel and very versatile, nice, as they say! Thanks! P.S. Just compared the specs you provided with those of my Greg Bennett RL-3 which is a smaller sized ES-335 copy made in the Samick factory in Indonesia and the body thickness and nut width are actually the same, it's got similar woods, a _one piece routed body design_ also from Mahogany, Mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard, rolled edges, Seymour Duncan designed pickups, I added locking tuners from Kluson, had some electronics rewiring done by the guitar tech as well as bone nut replacement and it was originally half the price of the Sire H7 at the time I got it from Gear4Music in Germany (still is half the price of the H7, more or less). Sound is very similar to the one you demo'd. So, for those who are on an even tighter budget, I can recommend this one in good conscience. You get to hear some of it on my channel, if interested. Again, thanks!

[@abrigospardos]

The Seth Lover pickup had a smoother, more jazzy sound, with less of a a bite, but the original pickup sounded pretty good anyway in my opinion (but of course I'm not a professional). The decision to upgrade I guess hinges on the style of music you want to play. Seth Lover is better for jazzy sounds.

[@terrancemattoon6869]

I picked up a L7 this past summer and it’s becoming my favorite guitar.I’m thinking about getting the H next.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Good choice!

[@Andreas_Straub]

The differences between the pickups for me appeared to be very minor and not noticable when not in a direct A-B comparison. This may however feel differently when actually playing the guitar.

[@mvp019]

Thanks for your honest assessment - I have a Gibson ES-335, but I am thinking about selling and getting this for economic reasons, and I will consider your advice!

[@ralex3697]

This is nice and I own it but nowhere in the league of your Gibson

[@theshyboys]

Nice Review, Thank You! The Seymour Duncan seems to have a slightly warmer tone, I like that! By the way: very nice playing!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thank you kindly! Yes, I love the clarity, but warmth. Not many pups can do both.

[@vip01]

I have one of these. The neck and fret work was very good. Easy to play. The body vibration seems to be excessive. I wish it was a hollow body, for my taste. I wear hearing aids and I have to turn them almost all the way down because of the vibrations and excessive harmonics. I agree the pickups don't have much low end. I like to use the neck pickup so If I keep it, I will replace that one.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Interesting how you hear and feel the vibrations over hearing aids. So you can tell right away if a guitar has great tone woods 😊

[@pierremlaurin3581]

My dear Sandra, I prefer the Seth lover, it is warmer and congratulations for your videos, greetings from Edmonton Alberta in Canada

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it 😊

[@JRandallS]

I like both pickups and understand why you prefer the darker toned one. For me, it depends. If I'm playing solo then I would probably also prefer the darker one. But, in a band context I would prefer the original. My H7V arrived today and I need to do some work on the nut and I'll be polishing frets as well, however i am very please with the tone. If I need it darker I'll just roll off the tone knobs a bit.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I don't thinn the Seth Miver sounds darker. It just sounds clearer, less muddy, with great zone seperation in the chords. And yes, it has a fuller, warmer bass, but not less treble!

[@JRandallS]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman It is an interesting problem that I seem to always be adjusting for in some way. For example, I love the sound of a rosewood acoustic with a spruce top. It is richer than say a maple acoustic. However in a live band context the maple is much easier to hear in the mix. All that richness of the rosewood guitar is lost. There are ways around the problem. One is to purchase an expensive DI that incorporates some good harmonic distortion. (Like a Neve DI). However, all things being equal (same DI on both guitars) the maple will still be easier to mix. My speculation is simply that the original might survive the mix better, or maybe not :)

[@PaoloC.]

great review! I have that guitar and I think it's amazing how it looks and sound for the price. BTW I know that the new runs of H7 and H7v will get a 43 mm nut due to high demand...

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Yes, and they come with P90s!

[@markdouglas8073]

This was a truly helpful review-and on my first time to see your channel in my feed.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Welcome to the channel, Mark! ❤️ BTW, the new H7 series now has a 43mm nut width.

[@Uruguay714]

What a beautiful lead in!!

[@barrysebastian9584]

Nice assessment and demo (nice playing as usual!👏), Sandra! The H7 was at the top of my list for my last guitar purchase, due to its value. Plus, I got to see and hear Larry play his H7 at a show, which really did a lot to “sell it!” However, being mostly a Tele guy for live playing over the past decade, that lower bout width kinda convinced me to look into a 339 style guitar. Then I found an Epiphone ES339 that was mint, with a brand new hard shell case, and wet sanded neck (which is what I prefer - smooth as butter), and Plek’d for perfect intonation and setup! $645US. Very comfortable to play under the arm pit, and the input jack is on the bottom, like my Teles. I might eventually swap pickups, but it “plays” perfect. For me. Couldn’t pass it up. Your Seth Lover sounds much warmer, and balanced. A great pickup! Nice post!!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I should've gotten me a 339 style as well, the 335 is really huge for me. But other than that I'm very satisfied now with the H7. Other than the frets it's a rather good guitar for the price tag. Congrats on your great 339 purchase, great deal!

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman I agree with both of you regarding the 335 type body. The 339 size and shape are so much more comfortable for a lot of players, which is why it was created in the first place.

[@compucorder64]

I just got mine, but the new alternate model with Sire's P90s in as stock. Be interesting to hear the difference. I preferred the Seymour Duncan, smoother, more vintage rolled off treble, sounded more like a neck pickup, where the stock sounded almost more of a 'mid' pickup type sound. There was more woomp in the lower mids, and I think because the treble was less jarry, the bass came to the fore more for a better overall balance. And on in Ross Campbell's demo of the similar built D'Angelico Premier DC, I preferred replacement vintage Mojotones to the stock Seymour Duncan 'designed' pickups. Again, a smoothening of the treble effect. In both cases, the effect is that it sounds like a much more 'expensive' guitar. And the mid setting became nice usable with the Mojotone's where the stock sounded unpleasant by comparison on mid setting. Pots and switches on mine will be replaced, when I get a Mojotone p90 neck pickup to try. I mostly use the neck pickup too.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I will have to try the P90 version once it's available here.

[@Patriot1777]

Bought one yesterday, love it with the original pickups.😊

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Good choice!

[@michaelvaladez6570]

A very nice review..i follow your channel and i greatly appreciated your content..keep up the great work !!!!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Thank you bunches! I'm glad my cobtent is helpful ☺️

[@Miko1963]

Thanks for this in-depth analysis of the H7. I owned a Ibanez Artstar 335 clone in the later 80s but it was too heavy to carry around to Jam sessions etc. I switched to a Fender Strat which I still enjoy. I do want to get a 335 again now and was very interested in this Sire Larry Carlton H7. I do wonder. What strings do you play with. My favs were .10 -.46 so these were on the lighter side, and play with the tone settings to get added warmth. Of course I played on a good tube amp with a little reverb too. (Music Man 2x10 Celestion)... Nowadays, I just play in my home and homestudio, so I'd like to get a Music Man 110 Celestion) or similar...

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I play Thomastik 12s, but am thinning abojt changing to11s. Been playing 12s all my jazz life (30 years), but getting older the 11s are easier on the fingers. Don't bother tol much about string gauge. There's not much difference in sound. Even if you think you hear a difference, you can make it up by turning that mid and bass knob on your amp up a bit.

[@JackTheSkunk]

Nice review Sandra....the best part is no stupid distortion!! 😂 The narrowness of the neck is problematic because half the time I play with a thumbpick and fingers. ...a little extra width would be nice.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

There's a version 2 out now with rdgular neck wudth (43mm) and P9p pickups.

[@marcelleblanc9212]

I have the Sheraton and somebody advised me this Sire but I was disapointed by the narrow neck op 40 mm and hmmm the sound was not exciting so I think the Sheraton is really better.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

They're both great guitars for the money. I always recommend the Sheraton. It's really well built and has great sound.

[@paulhicks3595]

Very informative. It gave me a good point of reference for my recently acquired, Chinese made, 335 style guitar. As to buying one, I have big hands and the narrow neck is a deal breaker, however I think I’ll try the Seymour Duncan pickup on your recommendation.

[@jst601]

Wow. What a great review & your insight is appreciated. Would love to see the amp & settings you used for your demo. The Seth Lover pickups are not wax potted, correct? Is this an issue for you? I liked the stock pickup sound; I'm not a jazz player & have never gotten past the "beginner jazz" level. I'm a teacher & personally play a variety of styles but have always been lacking in jazz ability. Anyway, you've sparked my interest in learning a bit more with this really great video. You're a fabulous player & I could listen to you talk for hours! Have a blessed day. (I subscribed!)

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I have a video up for the amp settings (I always use the same for the YT tutorials) type "amp settings guitarversum" into the YT search box. The Seth Lovers are ubwaxed and the click noise dove me crazy on the beginning. Do I lowered my neck pickup a bit and now it's OK. You get used to it. I'll have a video up in a few weeks, where I compare all my three jazz guitars that have the Seth Lovers in them. Check it out!

[@djffe8597]

if you listen to Larry, Carlton’s room 335 tune as I did a million times back in the day you notice he doesn’t have very much low end on his guitar especially when he’s using overdrive sound

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

That's true, I guess he just likes it that way. One can definitely leave the origi3pickup instalked, it's just that I love the SL so much 😊.

[@TheSteves]

Great review! The SD pickup sounded better to my ears - warmer and with a nice mellowness - the stock p/up for me is a little harsh sounding

[@ediwguitar]

Hey sandra, the intro song reminds me of an arrangement of same old blues... it would be fantastic if youd do a tutorial on your intro tune it sounds stunning... thanks for your incredible videos, yesterday ive learnt your nature boy tutorial... warm grrreetings from austria

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

It sounds a bit like "Georgia On My Mind". I think it was lesson material a student brought over from another teacher, but I'm not sure (old and firgetful 😁).

[@bluedigu]

I have these guitar. And agree completely with your comments. Frets must be softly polished and for the neck pickup it have not enough bass gor a certain type of classic vintage jazz. It have much more bluesy and rock sound. I stay with it because it diversify my 335 clone sounds . In an other clone i have a rare bartolini jazz pickup bought in 1979 wich is extraordinary. The sire h7 have more bite in a very subtil ot rageous way depending of the gear anf attack done . A good guitar. Without modifications and if yiu search a precise sound yiiu can easily and affordably upgrade at your need. For me the mechanics are not very good but they can stay as is.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I found the tubing Grafschaft quite good, actually. Maybe they changed it? Congrats on the Bartolini pickup!

[@bluedigu]

The pickups of L. C. H7 are alnico 2. Low voltage. Precision, definition.bite buy no aggressivity. As soon as Larry Carlton prefer. For his particular style it s perfect. Your choice in neck pickup is the best for this guitar. A must.

[@davidwood351]

I bought one of these about a year ago, wish I ordered the gold hardware.... it feels a little better in my hands than the Gibson Mr 335 custom shop, and I have pretty large hands. According to Ytube videos, Larry plays his H7 a lot.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

He said, he leaves his precious Gibson at home and tours with the H7 these days.

[@davidwood351]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman I’m sure Larry has modified his H7 a bit.

[@MrRubenrivera9649]

The stock pickups come close to the Duncan and can get buy but Seth lovers give the guitar a bit more salt and pepper to the sound.

[@cheezyridr]

very nice! it's a good looking guitar, and it sounds good when you play it. i have a d angelico mini dc. a smaller body semi hollow. it's a bit darker than your guitar, and the bridge pick up is too hot for this type. but i play different type of music. nice job on the review!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

I just bought the Mini DC Deluxe myself. Great guitar, will do a video review!

[@miked3317]

The Seth Lover pickup sounds much sweeter and rounder. Good change!! 👍👍👍

[@eduardoprieto5267]

I preferred the original pickup. God bless all.

[@5959Mikee]

Excellent review and answered a lot of my questions. Seth lover for me much better tone. Thanks for sharing.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Glad this was helpful 😊

[@jamesmarkham7489]

Great review. Good sound test going back and forth between the two.

[@MrArjen1960]

Hey really love your video's. I also have a Sire, but changed the pickups with Lollar Imperials, low wound for the neck. Yes I managed to do that myself and it is a very hard thing to do :/ With a lot of tweaking and polish this guitar became my favorite, though I still think the neck is narrow and the frets a bit high for my taste. Great guitar for the money !!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Only hear good things about Lollar puos. Unfortunately I never had the chance to test one.

[@MrArjen1960]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman They are well balanced and string separation is great, also the sound is transparent in my ears, you might want to try an older Eastman, they also had Lollars, financial it makes no sense though :P

[@danieleacquavera4107]

I don't play jazz, it's not my thing... but your review is really helpful. Thanks from Bergamo, Italy 🇮🇹

[@lloydabrams5241]

Seth is a bit Warmer, but not a big difference. Seth designed the 1957 Humbucker, it is the first Humbucker design.

[@Dnell-tb1yd]

That's not entirely accurate, search the work that Ray Butts did for Grestch...that's why the whole P.A.F(patent applied for) comes from

[@roblastem2905]

Filter’tron is the first - it is also still the best.

[@williambarabanitz3858]

I have a LP and a hollow jazz box. Sold my Heritage Prospect and bought TWO guitars - I'm no genius. Anyway I'm thinking that an H7 with Bartolini's could sound magic and be a DO-ALL guitar; no need for two axes.

[@picker63028]

I'm with you on the Seth pickup. Much more articulate tone.

[@countblue]

I just found one used here in vienna for 450.- (black/gold) with that 40 mm spacing. For my tiny hands its comfy. :-) The sound if nice too.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Cool! There should be more guitars for small hands. A lot of necks are really chunky.

[@jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988]

Thnaks for the excelent review! I've been eyeing this guitar and I am now convinced!

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Glad to be of help. The new series has a 43mm nut, I heard. That's the standard Gibson nut width, while this one from 2022 has 40mm nut.

[@jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman Thanks Sandra!

[@algomez5041]

I know you are requested to review a lot of guitars, but I would make a recommendation to review the Sadowski ss15 it has a 15 inch ball and the thickness is 1 and 3/4 ebony fretboard excellent guitar hollow-body I happen to use his guitar and I really love it and Nick is a very good playability again excuse the auto correction it really sucks

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Unfortunately nobody buys me a Sadowsky 😊.

[@algomez5041]

Point well made I bought my sadowsky ss15 back in 2014 it cost me 6600 back then almost bankrupt me LOL

[@davelewis4215]

I bought exactly the same guitar earlier this year and absolutely love it👍We have 7 Sire Larry Carlton guitars that are all outstanding 👍Sire released a P90 version of this and a few other models a couple of months back that we are itching to try 👍

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

A P90 version sounds great! Didn't see that here in Europe. Although I don't like the P90 hum, but the sound is great.

[@schpotzlzwergl2888]

Excellent review!

[@foxythepirate98wolfgangh20]

Liked the H7 PUP better as it sounded clearer. The Seth Lover sounded muddy in comparison. I was listening on Apple AirPods Max headphones which are usually quite accurate. Think you need to actually play each one through your own amp to decide. But can't beat the H7 when it comes to price to performance ratio.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

That's surprising, since the SL is much more clearer and not muddy at all. The Sire pup actually lacks some bass, maybe that's why in comparisson you perceive the SL as muddy, while it just has more bass.

[@foxythepirate98wolfgangh20]

@@GuitarversumSandraSherman Yes, you may be right on that. Still think one needs to play through their own set up to make a decision. One example. I have the original Spark 40 with powered extension cabinet and with my modded 65 Tele I keep getting compliments on how great it sounds. Others complain about how muddy the Spark 40 is. I don't find that at all. p.s. you have great presentations on KZbin and your playing is great. I hope you are doing well both musically and personally.

[@bobparsons1099]

Liked the SL pickups! Great to hear the difference…

[@salsplace]

Seth Lover sounds great. Nice guitar

[@richardpenhardt6100]

i didnt dislike the original neck pickup. it just sounded modern and quicker. the seth lover pickup to my ear sounds softer/darker and more emotional. thanks for your review.

[@GuitarversumSandraSherman]

Good observation