The Lakestone LB Bass

Loud acoustic volume, warm bass tone, classic Lakestone sustain and playablity.

When Tony was asked to build an acoustic bass, his reaction wasn't exactly enthusiastic! The reason? Tony has been a bass player for most of his musical life. He dedicated himself to building bespoke electric bass instruments for himself, friends and customers for over 30 years, using some of the finest woods and electronics available. He tried out several acoustic basses on offer but decided they were not for him as they never really seemed to be able to compete with the volume of acoustic guitars and they all had pickup systems to compensate! So why bother?

The driving force of this request was Dafydd from North Wales, who already owned a Lakestone OM model. He wouldn't take no for an answer!

After long discussions, Tony decided he needed to re-design the internal bracing system with three goals in mind:

1. Increase the volume
2. Improve tone
3. Extend the sustain

The choice of materials became critical. American Black Walnut would give the warmth of the bass, coupled with German Spruce that is bright enough for more tone without being too stiff. This combination proved a success. All three objectives were achieved. There is improved acoustic volume with a warmth at the bottom end and a mid-range and top-end growl that is similar to electric basses, but without being unfaithful to a true acoustic sound.

A pickup system was added to give the option of playing this beautiful instrument through a PA. The simple choice of the "K&K Pure Tone" was exactly right: no onboard active pickups here, just lovely acoustic sounding reproduction.

Coupled to this was the ergonomic addition of a bevel to provide comfort when playing a deeper bodied guitar. The neck has a very slimline thickness made possible by the internal addition of carbon fibre, while the width remains 42mm at the nut and 54mm at the 14th fret. With a scale length of 32 inches, it plays like "butter"!

We are so pleased with the results that we are happy to add this guitar model to our growing family of Lakestone Guitars.