Larrivée
Since 1967
Larrivée Guitars was founded in 1967 by Jean Larrivée in Toronto, Ontario, after completing an apprenticeship with renowned German luthier Edgar Mönch Sr. Starting by building classical guitars in his basement, Jean developed a distinctive symmetrical X-bracing pattern that delivers crystal highs, soothing mids, and punchy bass—a technique now used by leading guitar makers worldwide. Wendy Larrivée's intricate inlay designs became the brand's visual signature. The company moved from Toronto to Victoria, BC (1977), then Vancouver (1982), and finally to Oxnard, California (2001), where all production continues today. Larrivée represents the pinnacle of the builder-craftsman tradition: one family's relentless pursuit of acoustic perfection.
59
Years in Business
200K+
Guitars Sold
$10M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Larrivée Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Larrivée guitars.
Larrivée Price Overview
Larrivée covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$1,100
+4% vs last year
eBay Listings
700
Active listings
Sold This Month
120
+3% vs last month
Price Range
$400-$5,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Larrivée Timeline
Jean Larrivée Starts
Founded in Toronto after apprenticing with German luthier Edgar Mönch Sr. Began building classical guitars in his basement.
Steel-String Transition
Moved to a commercial space and began exploring steel-string construction, inspired by Toronto's thriving folk music scene.
Victoria, BC Move
Relocated to Victoria, British Columbia to access premium Pacific Rim tonewoods—Sitka spruce, western red cedar.
Wendy Larrivée Inlays
Wendy Larrivée's intricate inlay designs became standard features, creating Larrivée's distinctive visual identity.
Vancouver Factory
Moved to a larger Vancouver facility. Developed the symmetrical X-bracing pattern that became Larrivée's tonal signature.
Recording Series
Introduced the Recording Series (03 line)—optimized for studio work with balanced projection across all frequencies.
California Production
Opened manufacturing facility in Oxnard, California. Canadian production continued initially before full California transition.
All-California Manufacturing
Canadian production closed; all models now produced in Oxnard, California. American-made quality at mid-tier prices.
Parabolic X-Bracing
Refined bracing to parabolic X-bracing pattern, enhancing resonance while maintaining structural integrity.
Continuing Excellence
Continues California production with expanded body shapes and tonewood options.
Complete Larrivée Product Lineup
Larrivée: one family's symmetrical bracing revolution—from Toronto basement to California workshop since 1967
Recording Series (03)
Studio-optimized acoustics—the core Larrivée line
Flagship shape at ~$2,499
Dreadnought at ~$2,499
OM at ~$2,499
Cutaway at ~$2,749
Premium Series (09/10)
Premium tonewoods and appointments
Premium L-body at ~$3,499-$4,000
Top-tier dread at ~$4,500-$5,000
Premium OM at ~$3,499
Vintage Models (Used)
Canadian-era and early California production
Used at ~$800-$2,500
Used at ~$700-$2,000
Compact at ~$600-$1,500
"Larrivée: one family's symmetrical bracing revolution—from Toronto basement to California workshop since 1967"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Recording Series Guide
The Balanced Sound
Larrivée's symmetrical X-bracing produces an unusually balanced tonal response—crystal highs, warm mids, and defined bass. Superior to many guitars costing twice as much for recording work
L-Body Shape
The L-body is Larrivée's signature shape—smaller than a dreadnought, larger than an OM. It combines fingerpicking intimacy with strumming power. The most versatile Larrivée body shape
California-Made Value
At $2,499, a new Larrivée is American-made with parabolic X-bracing, solid tonewoods, and Wendy's inlays. Comparable Taylor or Martin American-made models start at $3,000+
Body Shape Guide
D = Power
The Dreadnought (D-03) delivers maximum volume and bass response. Ideal for flatpicking, strumming, and stage projection. The classic acoustic guitar shape
OM = Versatility
The Orchestra Model (OM-03) balances fingerpicking and strumming with a more comfortable body. The modern player's choice—works in any context
L = Larrivée's Best
The L-body is Jean Larrivée's original design. Slightly wider lower bout than OM, slightly smaller than D. The shape that showcases the symmetrical bracing best
Used Larrivée Buying Guide
Canadian-Made Premium
Pre-2013 Canadian-made Larrivées are increasingly sought after. Used prices at $800-$2,500 represent exceptional value for handcrafted instruments
Tonal Maturity
Larrivée's solid-wood construction means used instruments often sound BETTER than new ones—the tops have opened up over years of vibration. A 10-year-old Larrivée can be tonally superior
Check the Inlays
Wendy Larrivée's inlay work is detailed and delicate. Inspect for damage or wear. Original inlays in good condition increase collectibility and value