Tanglewood NS1BK Northstar Double Cutaway Electric Guitar, Solid Black

Solid black looks with three single coil pickups

The Tanglewood NS1BK is a solid black double cutaway electric guitar for players who want a straightforward, versatile instrument at an easy price. It sits in the Northstar range and is a good first choice if you are looking for a black electric guitar that sounds clean and bright.

Poplar body and double cutaway

The body is poplar, a light wood that gives a balanced voice. The double cutaway shape leaves the upper frets easy to reach, so solos and chord shapes high on the neck do not feel cramped. The finish is a plain solid black, which suits almost any stage or bedroom wall.

Maple neck and caramel maple fingerboard

The neck is maple with a Roseacer stripe, topped with a caramel maple fingerboard. Maple feels smooth under the hand and keeps the notes bright and clear. The chrome die cast machine heads help the guitar hold its tuning while you practise.

Three single coils, three jobs

Three ceramic single coil pickups give you the classic chime that suits clean rhythm, funk and pop. Add some drive from your amp and the same pickups cut through for lead lines.

• Solid black finish
• Poplar body, double cutaway
• Maple neck with Roseacer stripe
• Three ceramic single coil pickups

Who it suits

This guitar works well if you are starting out and want something dependable that does not shout for attention. The shape is comfortable sitting down or standing with a strap, and the controls are simple to learn. Because the sound is clean and open, you hear your own playing clearly, which makes it a useful tool for learning timing, picking and chord changes. It is also a sensible spare for gigging players who want a light second guitar in the case.

Black is a safe colour that never clashes with a strap, an amp or a stage outfit, and it hides little marks well.

If you like the Northstar shape but fancy another colour, the NS1BL in metallic blue and the NS1VW in vintage white share the same spec. The NS1BK is the one to pick if you want the guitar to look understated and let the playing do the talking.