Danelectro DE 59M LH NOS+ Black

Danelectro DE 59M LH NOS+ Black review

The Danelectro DE 59M LH NOS+ Black is a left-handed electric guitar with a distinctive vintage-inspired look and a pickup setup that gives it a sound of its own. Its double-cut body uses a poplar frame and center block, with Masonite top and back. A maple bolt-on neck and Pau Ferro fingerboard complete the basic construction.

At a listed price of 618, the DE 59M sits in a range where players are likely to weigh its character against more familiar designs. User reports point to a guitar that can reward players looking for bright, cutting tones, while its unusual bridge and lightweight construction may take some getting used to. It is also a practical option for left-handed guitarists seeking something beyond the small selection often found in stores.

Construction and playing feel

The instrument has six strings, 21 frets, and a 635 mm scale. Its nut is 42 mm wide and made of aluminum. The neck is attached with bolts, and the fretboard is Pau Ferro. Danelectro lists the body and top as Masonite; the more detailed construction description specifies a poplar frame and center block with Masonite top and back.

Several owners describe the guitar as exceptionally light and comfortable to play. One reviewer found the action good straight out of the box and praised the neck, while another reported enjoying its playability over regular use. Those are individual experiences, not a guarantee that every example will arrive with identical setup. One player noted a small intonation adjustment was needed, so checking intonation after purchase is sensible.

The 635 mm scale is shorter than a typical 648 mm electric-guitar scale. A player who has compared it with other guitars described the strings as feeling relatively taut, with a crisp response that suited their style. That feel is subjective and depends on string gauge and setup. Buyers who prefer a looser string feel should take the scale and their usual setup into account.

Pickups and sound

Two '56 Lipstick single-coil pickups provide the DE 59M's main tonal identity. The pickup configuration is single-coil and single-coil, with no tremolo. Player feedback most often highlights bright, clear, twangy tones suited to surf, garage rock, indie, and punk. One owner valued being able to adjust the two pickups' volume and tone controls independently, using that range to move from a crisp, treble-forward sound toward a thicker fuzz tone.

That flexibility has limits. These are still single-coil pickups, and the guitar is not a direct substitute for a high-output metal instrument or a more conventional humbucker-equipped guitar. One home-recording buyer liked the build and appearance but did not enjoy the sound. That is a useful reminder that the Lipstick pickup character is distinctive, and personal taste matters more than broad claims about versatility.

Other owners report that the guitar holds tuning well, including one left-handed player who used it consistently over an extended period. The bridge is a fully adjustable wraparound design. One reviewer found its recessed position and string path unusual but did not report a playing problem. Players accustomed to standard bridges may need a moment to understand the layout.

What to consider before buying

• Strengths: distinctive Lipstick pickup sound, low weight, and a neck that several owners found comfortable.
• Trade-offs: the pickup character will not suit every player, and the bridge design may feel unfamiliar.
• Setup: check action and intonation on arrival, as one owner needed a minor intonation adjustment.
• Included accessories: neither a case nor a gig bag is included. A compatible case is listed separately under article number 177636.

Verdict

The Danelectro DE 59M LH NOS+ Black makes the strongest case for itself through its specific combination of left-handed availability, lightweight construction, and bright, recognizable pickup tone. Player reports describe it as comfortable, stable in tuning, and capable of more tonal variation than its simple layout might suggest. At the same time, its sound is not universally appealing, and setup may need a small adjustment.

For a left-handed guitarist who wants a different voice for surf, garage, indie, or punk, this Danelectro is a compelling choice to try. Players seeking a familiar, high-output sound should compare it with other options first. The guitar has been available since May 2015, and its individual item number is 363405.