I have seen many reviews of the other Larry Carlton S models, and was hoping to purchase an S7, however, these have been out of stock for sometime, due to their popularity, so I decided on the S5 model.
This is a very conventional Stratocaster model with 3 single coil pickups compared to the S3 and S7 models with the humbucker in the bridge position.
I am so glad that I picked this model as I had forgotten how versatile a conventional S type guitar can be.
The finish quality is superb, the hardware, machineheads, bridge etc. are all excellent and work perfectly.
I have never been overly concerned with finish quality, I am much more interested in playability, however, this guitar delivers on both in spades.
The rolled edges of the neck are a revelation, and the finishing of the frets, feels so good. The satin back neck glides through the hand and makes playing a real pleasure.
I use a 9 gauge string normally, but, the Sire S5 came with Ernie Ball 10's, and I have to say, even though I had to fight it a little, it was worth it .
I cannot recommend the Larry Carlton Sire S5 highly enough 11/10