Larrivée builds some of the most consistently excellent acoustic guitars in North America. You will enjoy precise bracing, first-rate tonewoods, and a level of fit and finish that punches well above the price point. Founded by Jean Larrivée in Vancouver and now operating out of California, the brand has spent fifty years quietly making guitars that serious players seek out and rarely sell. The used market is where Larrivée's value proposition really opens up: instruments that were built right to begin with, broken in by a previous owner, and available at a fraction of what comparable boutique acoustics command.
Our used Larrivée inventory spans the range — from the player-friendly L-03 and L-05 series to the more elaborately appointed L-09 and L-10 models with premium tonewoods and upgraded appointments. Every guitar is personally inspected and listed with full condition notes, setup observations, and honest disclosure.
Browse current inventory below, and check back regularly — good used Larrivées don't last long. Don't forget to check out the rest of our vintage and used acoustic guitars.
Buying Guide: What to Know Before You Buy a Used Larrivée
Understanding Larrivée's model naming
Larrivée's model names generally combine a body shape letter (like L for their standard shape, OM for orchestra model, or C for cutaway/concert-style bodies) with a number indicating the appointment level — higher numbers typically mean more premium tonewoods and finish detailing. A "10" series model, for example, sits well above a "03" in terms of materials and appointments, though both share the same careful bracing and construction Larrivée is known for across its entire line.
What drives value in a used Larrivée
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Tonewood and appointment level — higher-numbered models often feature premium woods like Brazilian rosewood, which carries both a tonal reputation and added value due to international trade restrictions on the wood itself.
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Limited editions and anniversary models — Larrivée has released numbered anniversary and limited-run models over the decades; a documented, numbered example (like a specific serial in a run of 100) carries collector interest beyond a standard production guitar.
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Condition and setup — because Larrivées are built to a high standard from the factory, condition and setup quality matter more to playability than chasing a specific rare spec, especially for players rather than collectors.
How we grade and document our guitars
Every Larrivée in this collection is personally inspected before listing, with full condition notes, setup observations, and honest disclosure of any repairs or non-original components. Every guitar also receives a professional setup before it ships.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a used Larrivée compare in value to a similarly priced Martin or Taylor?
Larrivée has built a reputation among players and luthiers for construction quality that's often described as punching above its market price, in part because the brand has historically had less name recognition than Martin or Taylor despite comparable or superior build quality on many models. That relative obscurity can work in a buyer's favor, since comparable tonewood and craftsmanship is sometimes available at a lower price point than an equivalent guitar from a more widely marketed brand.
Do you ship guitars internationally, and how are they insured?
Yes — we ship internationally, and every instrument is insured in transit, packed carefully to protect it from damage during shipping. Import duties and taxes are the buyer's responsibility and vary by destination country. Guitars containing regulated tonewoods like Brazilian rosewood may require additional documentation for international shipments.
What's included in a professional setup before shipping?
Every guitar receives a full setup — action, intonation, and truss rod adjustment, and fresh strings — so it's playable straight out of the case, whether it's headed to a stage, studio, or living room.
Can I trade my current guitar toward one of these?
Yes, we accept trades toward the guitars in this collection. Reach out with details and photos of your guitar and we'll provide a trade valuation. You can use our Sell My Vintage Guitar form to make it super easy.
