The style of case doesn't make or break a deal, but I prefer the plastic molded kind. They feel easier to move around and more compact. I didn't have a choice in the matter.


The white color and black fretboard looks really nice. I am not a fan of pearl, but I do like the color combination.

No microwave plate on this one.


Here is a closer look. I now have 2 S500s. A 3 bolt and now a 4 bolt.

Ugh! I might go find a replacement for these. Locking tuners makes life easier. No problem, easy to replace. Then again, my 3 bolt has issues with the locking tuners. Today I spent over an hour trying to replace the strings.


Let's make a comparison between the two.
The old model '96 I believe, has > 2" of wood on the higher frets. I always thought G&L could improve their guitars by reducing the amount of wood here. Kind of like how Suhr does it.

The new model is < 2". This is good! There might be more room for improvement, but progress has been made.

Let's take another look at the 3 bolt. It has over 1" of wood.

The 4 bolt has less than 1"

Side by side. Notice the different shades on the saddles and where the toggle switch is. The new model has it in a scary place, I hope that doesn't become an issue when I play. Is this location the norm for S500 nowadays? Just curious to see if other people have the same set up.

Does anyone know of the neck profile on the 30th? It seems a little smaller than my 3 bolt. That might have something to do with an Ebony fretboard.
There is a noticable difference between the fret job on between the 2. The Plek system is smooth. As for my 3 bolt....wellll...it has had better days.
There is a color difference on the neck. The 4 bolt feel smoother, but the 3 bolt has a more "vintage" look.
The birth mark on the 4 bolt looks to be a little rough.

From what I can see. G&L has improved on these guitars. Now it is time to play it and find out.
