The Gibson L-7 model was a well constructed professional grade budget friendly arch-top guitar. It went through many changes from its introduction in 1933 until its retirement in the early 1970s. The L-7 had a fair amount of fancy adornments for a budget model such as a script pearl inlay, multiple layers of binding and a 17″ wide body (after 1934).
Indeed in 1934, to meet the increased demands for volume required by the Big Band era, Gibson increased the body size of its professional guitars from 16" to 17" in the lower bout. Just as significantly, Gibson introduced the X-brace support system for the first time in their arch-top guitars. The X-brace had been used by Martin for some time, and has in recent decades found wide popularity with top builders like Benedetto and others for it's warm woody tone, with greater sustain and bass response.
The L-7 was Gibson's most popular 17" guitar, with the same size, scale and materials as the L-5. Interestingly, the L-7 of this era had a much more ornate inlay pattern than it's more expensive cousin.
This guitar comes from Arlen Roth’s guitar collection.
