Best Larrivee Guitars in 2026: Six Models Compared
Of the seven Larrivee guitars currently in our catalogue, six made the cut, spanning acoustic and electric models. The top pick is the LV-19 Rosewood Flying Eagle Reissue, a flagship acoustic with a rosewood body and a classic Larrivee L shape. It offers the most ambitious tonewood package in this lineup. Our selection is based on the model specifications and the body-type and tonewood characteristics described in Martin's educational guides.
6 picks from 7 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.
Quick list
| # | Pick | Guitar | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best overall | Larrivee LV-19 Rosewood Flying Eagle Reissue Acoustic Guitar | $6,699.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details) |
| 2 | Best parlor guitar | Larrivee P-09 Custom "Ultimate Parlor" Acoustic Guitar | $4,624.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details) |
| 3 | Best electric guitar | Larrivee Baker-T Pro Electric Guitar | $4,599.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details) |
| 4 | Best for fingerstyle | Larrivee 000-40 Mahogany Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar | $2,999.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details) |
| 5 | Best dreadnought | Larrivee D-40 Mahogany Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar | $3,375.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details) |
| 6 | Best for recording | Larrivee SD-40MT Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar | $2,999.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details) |
Which one is right for you?
- For fingerstyle players: The 000-40's auditorium body delivers balanced tone across all six strings, a shape that Martin describes as ideal for intricate picking. See pick 4
- For stage musicians who need volume: The D-40's dreadnought body produces a loud, projective tone with strong bass, making it a reliable choice for unplugged gigs. See pick 5
- For compact comfort: The P-09 parlor has a smaller body and a delicate, treble-focused voice, suited for practice spaces or singer-songwriter sessions. See pick 2
- For electric players: The Baker-T Pro is the only electric in this lineup, featuring a ziricote top and a deep U neck for a distinct look and feel. See pick 3
All 6 picks in detail
1 Best overall
Larrivee LV-19 Rosewood Flying Eagle Reissue Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
$6,699.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details)
The LV-19 Rosewood Flying Eagle Reissue is the flagship acoustic in this pool, pairing a rosewood back and sides with a classic Larrivee L body. The reissue designation and premium tonewood make it the most ambitious choice for players seeking a high-end instrument.
Pros
- Rosewood back and sides as named in the listing
- Reissue model with a distinctive flying eagle headstock
- Acoustic body suited for fingerstyle and flatpicking
Cons
- No onboard electronics stated in the listing
- Body size and dimensions are not specified in the listing
Good fit if
- Collectors looking for a limited reissue
- Advanced players who want a premium rosewood acoustic
Skip if
- You need a guitar with factory-installed electronics
- You prefer a smaller, more compact body
Verdict: A statement acoustic for serious players who value tonewood and heritage.
2 Best parlor guitar
Larrivee P-09 Custom "Ultimate Parlor" Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
$4,624.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details)
The P-09 Custom "Ultimate Parlor" is the only parlor in this pool, offering a compact body that Martin's guide describes as producing a delicate sound with distinct treble and reduced bass. Its custom designation suggests a higher-spec finish and attention to detail.
Pros
- Parlor body for a compact and focused voice
- Custom shop designation in the name
- Natural gloss finish as stated in the listing
Cons
- Reduced bass and lower volume intrinsic to parlor bodies
- No electronics stated in the listing
Good fit if
- Fingerstyle players who prefer a smaller instrument
- Musicians looking for a comfortable travel or practice guitar
Skip if
- You need deep bass and high projection for band settings
- You want a cutaway for upper-fret access
Verdict: A refined parlor guitar for intimate playing and close-mic recording.
3 Best electric guitar
The Baker-T Pro is the sole electric in this lineup, featuring a "Deep U" neck and a ziricote top. Ziricote is a dense tonewood that Martin's wood guide notes can offer strong sustain and clear projection, giving this model a unique sonic character.
Pros
- Ziricote top as named in the listing
- Deep U neck profile for a substantial hand feel
- Electric body design that stands apart from the acoustics in this pool
Cons
- Not an acoustic guitar, so it cannot be played unplugged
- Pickup and hardware specs are not stated in the listing
Good fit if
- Players who want a Larrivee with an electric voice
- Jazz and blues players seeking a unique timber
Skip if
- You are exclusively shopping for an acoustic instrument
- You need a specific pickup configuration
Verdict: A distinctive Larrivee electric for those who want the brand's craftsmanship on a solidbody.
4 Best for fingerstyle
Larrivee 000-40 Mahogany Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
$2,999.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details)
The 000-40 Mahogany Legacy Series uses an auditorium (000) body, which Martin's acoustic guitar types guide says provides balanced tone across all six strings. The mahogany construction, as implied by the name, contributes a focused midrange that suits fingerpicking.
Pros
- Auditorium body for balanced tone and smooth highs
- Mahogany back and sides as named in the listing
- Vintage sunburst satin finish for a muted look
Cons
- No electronics stated in the listing
- Satin finish may have a different wear pattern than gloss
Good fit if
- Fingerpickers who want even string-to-string definition
- Singer-songwriters looking for a versatile companion
Skip if
- You need a dreadnought's extra volume and bass
- You prefer a glossy, high-polish finish
Verdict: A balanced auditorium acoustic that excels at intricate picking.
5 Best dreadnought
Larrivee D-40 Mahogany Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
$3,375.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details)
The D-40 is the classic dreadnought in the Legacy Series, with a body shape that Martin lists as producing a loud projective tone with strong bass. The mahogany back and sides (from the name) give a clear, woody voice with a focused fundamental.
Pros
- Dreadnought body for high volume and strong bass
- Mahogany back and sides as named in the listing
- Legacy Series construction from Larrivee
Cons
- Large body may be bulky for smaller players
- No electronics stated in the listing
Good fit if
- Flatpickers and strummers who need aggressive projection
- Acoustic guitarists who play alongside other instruments
Skip if
- You prefer a smaller body for comfort
- You require a built-in tuner or pickup
Verdict: A powerful dreadnought that delivers the classic acoustic sound for group settings.
6 Best for recording
Larrivee SD-40MT Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
$2,999.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:48 PDT - Details)
The SD-40MT Legacy Series features Larrivee's SD body, a design that sits between a small and standard dreadnought. The listing only specifies the full sunburst finish, but the balanced dimensions and Legacy quality make it a strong candidate for studio work.
Pros
- SD body design offers a middle-ground size (per Larrivee model naming)
- Full sunburst finish as stated in the listing
- Legacy Series build consistency
Cons
- Body dimensions are not stated in the listing
- No electronics stated in the listing
Good fit if
- Session players who want a flexible, balanced voice
- Songwriters who record at home and need a clean acoustic tone
Skip if
- You want a traditional dreadnought silhouette
- You need a cutaway for upper-fret access
Verdict: A versatile studio acoustic with a comfortable size and balanced response.
Specs compared
| # | Guitar | Type | Strings | Size | Left-handed | Kit or bundle | Amp included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Larrivee LV-19 Rosewood Flying Eagle Reissue Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Larrivee P-09 Custom "Ultimate Parlor" Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Larrivee Baker-T Pro Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Larrivee 000-40 Mahogany Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Larrivee D-40 Mahogany Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Larrivee SD-40MT Legacy Series Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How we chose these
The pool contains seven Larrivee listings, from which six were selected after removing near-duplicate models. Each guitar was shortlisted based on its stated model name, body type, and construction details provided in the listing. Martin's guides on acoustic guitar body types, wood materials, electronics, and strings were used to interpret what those model codes imply about tone and playability. Prices shown are live from the retailer and were read at the time of writing; no physical testing of these instruments was performed.
What to look for
Body shape and size
The body shape determines the guitar's volume, tone, and comfort. Dreadnoughts (D) are large and project loud, bass-heavy sound, making them ideal for strumming and playing with a group. Auditorium (000) and Orchestra (OM) bodies offer balanced tone across all strings, suited for fingerstyle and vocal accompaniment. Parlor bodies are smaller, producing a delicate treble-focused sound with reduced bass, perfect for practice and intimate settings. Consider where and how you will play to pick the size that feels and sounds right.
Tonewood choices
The back and sides shape the guitar's resonance and sustain. Mahogany, common on several models in this list, is known for a clear, woody voice with strong midrange and balanced tone when used on the back and sides. Rosewood, seen on the LV-19, offers deeper bass, rich overtones, and a warm balance. The top wood also matters: spruce is common for a bright attack, while mahogany tops bring a drier, woodier character. Review the wood names in each model and match them to your preferred tonal balance.
Electronics and pickup systems
If you plan to amplify your acoustic guitar, check whether the model includes an onboard pickup or preamp. None of the listings in this pool specify factory electronics, so you may need to install an aftermarket pickup or use an external microphone. For players who perform live, consider that a model without electronics will require additional equipment. Acoustic-electric versions with built-in controls simplify stage setups, but they are not listed for these six guitars.
String gauge and material
Strings affect brightness, warmth, and playability. Phosphor bronze strings deliver a warm, balanced voice with smooth highs and rich mids, suitable for fingerpicking and recording. 80/20 bronze strings are brighter with more sparkle, helping a guitar cut through a mix. If you prefer a softer feel and mellow tone, try silk and steel or lighter gauges. Since these guitars come without installed strings in the listing, you can choose a set that complements your playing style.
Finish and aesthetic
The finish influences both appearance and durability. Gloss finishes provide a shiny, protective coat, while satin finishes reduce reflections and may feel less sticky. The LV-19 and P-09 come in gloss natural, while the Legacy models feature satin finishes in vintage sunburst or full sunburst. Choose a finish that matches your visual preference and playing environment, but remember that the finish is a cosmetic choice and does not alter the fundamental tone.
Questions
What are Larrivee guitar model numbers like 000, D, and SD?
These prefixes indicate the body shape. '000' refers to an auditorium body, known for balanced tone and comfortable dimensions. 'D' stands for dreadnought, a larger body with loud bass and projection. 'SD' is Larrivee's own small dreadnought design, which fits between the two in size and output. The numbers after the dash typically denote the build level or wood grade.
Do any of the Larrivee guitars in this guide have built-in electronics?
Based on the store listings, none of the six models specify an onboard pickup or preamp. This means you will need an external microphone or an aftermarket pickup system to amplify these guitars. If you require factory electronics, you may want to look at Larrivee's acoustic-electric series elsewhere.
Which Larrivee is best for fingerpicking?
The 000-40 Mahogany Legacy Series is the strongest choice for fingerpicking. Its auditorium body offers balanced tone across all six strings, with treble definition that helps individual notes stand out. The mahogany back and sides contribute a focused woody response, making it well-suited for intricate patterns and nuanced dynamics.
Are Larrivee guitars suitable for beginners?
Larrivee guitars are generally crafted for players who value build quality and tone, and the models in this list are priced at a higher tier. The P-09 parlor has a smaller body that may feel comfortable for beginners, but its premium price and delicate sound are not typical of a starter instrument. Beginners may prefer a more affordable model from another brand, or a used Larrivee.
How do I choose between the D-40 dreadnought and the SD-40MT?
If you need maximum volume and a booming bass for strumming in a group, the D-40 is the traditional dreadnought. The SD-40MT offers a slightly smaller body in Larrivee's SD design, which balances projection with a more comfortable feel. Try both if possible, or consider your playing style and physical comfort to decide which size suits you.
Update history
- : First published.