Semi-hollow construction, Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90s and a unique tremolo system add up to “tone and playability that feels bespoke”
Eastman first made a splash with its Romeo electric guitar design at summer NAMM in 2019, and now the company is back with a new addition, the Romeo LA, which Guitar World Tech Editor Paul Riario calls an “exquisite modern thinline.”
The new guitar, he continues, “is created to appeal to a different type of player with a different type of sound.”
Like its predecessor, the Romeo LA features semi-hollow construction, with a spruce laminate top with mahogany laminate back and sides, a set maple neck with a 22-fret ebony fingerboard, a 24.75" scale length and a swept-curve neck joint.
The first tip-off that this is a brand-new beast, however, comes with the spectacularly fresh Celestine Blue finish, which Eastman describes as “evoking Los Angeles' classic skyline.”
(Image credit: Eastman Guitars)
As Paul points out, “there’s also a unique tremolo” – the Göldo TLT2N vibrato – “which is made for the Romeo LA. Its design and functionality is perfect for this guitar, and pair that with the Göldo three-point Vario bridge, which works in concert with this trem system.”
Pickups, meanwhile, are a pair of Seymour Duncan Phat Cat P-90s. “Only Seymour Duncan used their Radiator covers with the gold foil on the inside,” Paul says.
Another interesting design element,” Paul continues, “is that the Romeo LA has two volume controls and only one tone that only works on the bridge pickup. So now players can play with the two volume controls and roll off a little of the tone on the bridge if needed – a very cool feature.”
Paul concludes, “With a lightweight design and a unique tonal palette along with a beautiful new eye-catching color, the Eastman Romeo LA is an incredible custom guitar through and through.
“Without a doubt, one of the most innovative modern thinline guitars out there, with tone and playability that feels bespoke.”
To hear for yourself, check out Paul’s demo video above. And for more information on the Romeo LA, head to Eastman Guitars.
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