Gibson just released their 2016 lineup of updated instruments, and thankfully the L-00 Standard parlor guitar is part of it. The 2016 edition brings with it modern improvements that blend into the guitar's classic design, including the use of composite material for the nut and saddle, and the switch to LR Baggs electronics.

First released in the '30s as a barebones no cosmetic fluff instrument, the L-00 continues to be among the most sought after parlor guitars in the market today. This time around, Gibson continues with the straightforward forward look of the original, while injecting modern implements that improve the instrument's overall performance and reliability.

The 2016 L-00 Standard follows the specifications of the popular J-45 acoustic from Gibson, with the main difference being the smaller parlor style body. It has a sitka spruce top paired with mahogany, a tonewood combination that is known for punch and response. This gives this seemingly small instrument a bigger sound that Gibson says is better and louder than other small bodied instruments.

Continuing with the classic design, the guitar's neck is crafted from mahogany and topped by a rosewood fingerboard. Contrasting the classic approach is the use of modern Graphtec composite material for the nut and saddle, the neck also joins the body at the 14th fret instead of the old school 12-fret configuration. Scale length is similar to standard size guitars at 24.75" while nut width is 1.725". The 2016 edition of the L-00 Standard offers improved playability, thanks to the softened fingerboard edge which makes it comfortably fit the contour of the player's hand. Another important addition to this model is the use of Mother-of-pearl Gibson block inlay on the headstock.

For plugging in, Gibson equipped this acoustic-electric parlor guitar with LR Baggs Element VTC electronics. Its discrete design lets you control your volume and tone via the soundhole, which means that wood resonance and structural stability is not compromised when compared to the usual acoustic pickups.

Other new features that the 2016 Gibson L-00 Standard carries include improved high gloss finish, Plek setup, and the use of new finishing oils that penetrate to the wood to maximize the instrument's natural resonance.

The new Gibson L-00 Standard is currently retailing for $2,349. For more information, you can visit Gibson.