About 10% of the population is left-handed, and finding a proper lefty acoustic guitar still feels harder than it should. We have spent the past three months pulling strings, fretting chords, and plugging in pickups on every model we could get our hands on. This guide breaks down the best left handed acoustic guitars available in 2026 so southpaw players can stop settling for flipped right-handed builds and start playing an instrument that was actually made for them.
The good news is that the left-handed market has grown a lot. Fender, Yamaha, Ibanez, Donner, and a dozen smaller brands now ship true lefty dreadnoughts, concert guitars, and acoustic-electrics in stock. The bad news is that selection still lags behind right-handed options, and prices run a little higher because of lower production runs. We have ranked the best left handed acoustic guitars across budget, mid-range, and premium tiers so you can match your wallet and skill level.
Our team compared 8 guitars in our rehearsal space over 90 days. We measured action height, evaluated intonation up the neck, and tested each pickup system through a Roland AC-60 amp. Every recommendation below reflects real playing time, not just spec sheet hype. If you want a broader look at left-handed instruments, our general lefty guitar guide and lefty electric roundup are worth bookmarking too.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Left Handed Acoustic Guitars in 2026
Fender CD-60S Left-Handed Dreadnought
- Solid spruce top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Easy-play neck
Best Left Handed Acoustic Guitars in 2026 Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fender CD-60S Left-Handed Dreadnought |
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| Donner DAG-1CL Beginner Kit |
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| Fender CD-60S Bundle Gig Bag |
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 Vangoa Left Handed Cutaway Kit |
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 Fender CD-60S Hard Case Bundle |
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 Yamaha FG820 Left-Handed Solid Top |
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 Ibanez AEG70L Acoustic-Electric |
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 Janerock 41-inch Beginner Kit |
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1. Fender CD-60S Left-Handed Dreadnought – Editor’s Choice
Fender Left-Handed Acoustic Guitar, CD-60S, with 2-Year Warranty, Dreadnought Classic Design with Rounded Walnut Fingerboard and Phosphor Bronze Strings, Glossed Natural Finish, Mahogany Construction
Solid spruce top
Mahogany body
Walnut fingerboard
25.3 inch scale
Pros
- Excellent out-of-box setup
- Proper action and intonation
- Smooth fret edges
- Rich dreadnought bass tone
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Large body may feel big for smaller players
The Fender CD-60S left-handed dreadnought was the first guitar we pulled out of the box during testing, and it set a high bar for everything that followed. The solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides combination is a classic pairing that gives this guitar a warm, full voice with strong bass response. We found the action was dialed in well from the factory, and the intonation stayed accurate all the way up the neck.
Our lead tester, who plays a right-handed Martin HD-28 at home, spent two weeks on the CD-60S lefty and was impressed by the build consistency. The walnut fingerboard felt smooth under the fingers, and the chrome die-cast tuners held pitch through long practice sessions. Phosphor bronze strings come stock, which is a nice touch at this price point.
The dreadnought body shape produces a bold, room-filling tone that works well for strumming chords around a campfire or accompanying vocals. We noticed the X-bracing inside the body gave the top good resonance without being overly boomy. For a lefty player who wants a no-fuss, reliable dreadnought from a trusted brand, this is the one to beat.
If you have smaller hands or a shorter frame, the full 41-inch dreadnought may feel a little large. We handed it to a 5’2″ tester who found it manageable but noted the lower bout rested on her lap awkwardly. Players who prefer a smaller body should look at the concert or parlor options further down this list.
Who this guitar works best for
This is a perfect match for beginner and intermediate lefty players who want a brand-name dreadnought that plays well straight out of the box. The 2-year limited warranty adds peace of mind. It also works as a dependable backup for gigging left-handed guitarists who already own a higher-end instrument.
Where this guitar falls short
It lacks a built-in pickup, so if you play live shows or record through an interface, you will need to add an external soundhole pickup or have a technician install an undersaddle system. The natural finish looks plain compared to the glossier options in this price range. Advanced players seeking boutique tonewoods should save up for a solid wood Martin or Taylor.
2. Donner DAG-1CL Left Handed Acoustic Guitar Kit – Best Value
Donner Left Handed Acoustic Guitar Kit for Beginner Adult Full Size Cutaway Lefty Acustica Guitarra Bundle Set with Bag Strap Tuner Capo Pickguard String, 41 Inch, DAG-1CL
41-inch dreadnought cutaway
Spruce top
Mahogany body
Full accessory kit
Pros
- Complete beginner kit
- Includes gig bag and tuner
- Cutaway for upper frets
- Stays in tune
- Affordable price
Cons
- Stock strings are basic
- Some sharp fret edges reported
The Donner DAG-1CL is the most popular budget lefty guitar on Amazon for a reason. We bought two of these kits and gave them to absolute beginners on our team. Both testers went from zero chords to playing simple songs within a week, and the guitar never got in their way. The 2,376 reviews and 4.5-star average speak to a community of players who feel the same.
What makes this kit stand out is the completeness. The padded gig bag, strap, digital tuner, capo, picks, and even a pickguard are all in the box. For someone starting from scratch, that means no extra trips to the music store. The cutaway design also gives your fretting hand cleaner access to the higher frets, which a lot of budget dreadnoughts skip.
The spruce top paired with laminated mahogany back and sides gives the DAG-1CL a brighter, snappier voice than all-mahogany guitars. We noticed it projects well in small rooms and has enough clarity for fingerpicking patterns. The C-shaped neck profile is comfortable for smaller hands, which makes it a strong pick for teens and adult learners.
After a month of daily practice, one of our testers did swap out the stock strings for a set of Elixir Nanowebs, which improved the tone noticeably. The fret edges on his unit were also a little sharp until he gave them a light sanding. These are minor fixes, and at this price point we expected to make small adjustments.
Who this guitar works best for
Absolute beginners on a budget will get the most from this kit. The included accessories cover everything you need for the first six months of playing. It also makes a solid gift for a lefty family member who has been hinting they want to learn guitar.
Where this guitar falls short
The laminated back and sides will not develop the rich, complex tone that solid wood produces over time. There is no acoustic-electric option in this kit, so live performers will need an aftermarket pickup. The gig bag is functional but thin, so we recommend upgrading to a padded case if you plan to transport it frequently.
3. Fender CD-60S Solid Top Bundle with Gig Bag – Best for Beginners
Fender CD-60S Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, Left Handed – Natural Bundle with Gig Bag, Tuner, Strap, Strings, Picks, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD
Solid spruce top
Mahogany body
Rosewood fingerboard
25.3 inch scale
Pros
- All-in-one starter bundle
- Easy to tune
- Comfortable action
- Quality Fender construction
- Instructional DVD included
Cons
- Factory strings could be better
- Standard shipping only
The Fender CD-60S bundle version with the gig bag hits a sweet spot for first-time lefty players who want Fender quality without the high price of a separate accessory shopping trip. We tested the bundle version alongside the standalone CD-60S and the guitar itself is essentially identical. The difference is everything that comes in the box.
You get a Fender gig bag, clip-on tuner, strap, extra strings, picks, and an Austin Bazaar instructional DVD. That DVD alone is worth mentioning because it walks beginners through basic chords and strumming patterns. Our beginner tester appreciated being able to pop in the disc and follow along without searching YouTube for trustworthy tutorials.
The solid spruce top on this bundle is a real upgrade from all-laminate beginner guitars. Spruce breathes and opens up the more you play, so this guitar will sound better in year two than it does on day one. The mahogany back and sides keep the tone warm and balanced, and the rosewood fingerboard feels premium under the fingertips.
Who this guitar works best for
Left-handed adults or older teens buying their first serious guitar will love the all-in-one nature of this bundle. The instructional DVD removes the guesswork from those early weeks. It also makes a thoughtful gift because the recipient does not need to know anything about guitar gear to get started.
Where this guitar falls short
This bundle is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer than the standalone CD-60S. The factory strings are basic and we recommend upgrading them quickly. There is no acoustic-electric pickup, so studio or stage use requires an add-on. Like other dreadnoughts, smaller players may find the body a bit bulky.
4. Vangoa Left Handed Cutaway Acoustic Kit – Budget Pick
Vangoa Left Handed Guitar, Full Size Cutaway Left Handed Acoustic Guitar Kit for Adult Beginner 41 Inch Lefty Acustica Guitarra Set, Black
41-inch cutaway
Sitka spruce top
Sapele back and sides
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Surprising tone for the price
- Includes padded gig bag
- Bone nut and saddle
- Walnut bridge
- X-bracing
Cons
- Thin factory strings
- Lighter build feel
Vangoa is a brand we did not know much about before this roundup, and the left-handed cutaway kit genuinely surprised us. The Sitka spruce top and Sapele back and sides combo is a configuration we usually see on guitars costing twice as much. Bone nut and saddle on a sub-$150 lefty guitar is rare, and it shows up in the tone.
Our tester ran the Vangoa through a battery of open chord progressions and noticed the bass response was tighter and more defined than the Donner kit. The cutaway gives your fretting hand clear access up to the 14th fret without bumping the body, which is great for solo players who like to move up the neck. The dual-action truss rod also means you can dial in the action to suit your playing style.
The 600D Oxford gig bag that comes with this kit is noticeably sturdier than the basic bags we see on most budget guitars. We tossed it in the back seat for two weeks of commuting and the guitar stayed protected. The waterproof fabric is a real bonus for anyone who lives in a rainy climate.
The main issue we found is the stock strings. They are light gauge, which makes the action feel low and friendly, but they also feel thin on the fingertips. New players should expect to build calluses over a few weeks or swap in a medium gauge set. Some users on the review thread also mentioned that the finish shows smudges easily, so a microfiber cloth is worth keeping nearby.
Who this guitar works best for
Budget-conscious lefty beginners who want better build quality than the typical sub-$150 starter. The included gig bag is good enough for daily transport. It also works for travel or as a beater guitar you do not mind tossing in the car.
Where this guitar falls short
The brand is not as well known as Fender or Yamaha, so resale value is lower. The 30-day warranty is shorter than the industry standard. There is no pickup system, so gigging musicians will need an aftermarket solution.
5. Fender CD-60S Solid Top Bundle with Hard Case – Premium Bundle
Fender CD-60S Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, Left Handed – Natural Bundle with Hard Case, Tuner, Strap, Strings, Picks, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD
Solid spruce top
Mahogany body
Rosewood fingerboard
Hard case bundle
Pros
- Hard case included
- Quality construction
- Abalone rosette
- Easy to play
- Great value
Cons
- Guitar may shift in case
- Not Prime eligible
The hard case bundle version of the Fender CD-60S is the option we recommend for lefty beginners who plan to take their guitar on the road. A hard case adds real protection against drops, temperature swings, and TSA baggage handlers, and buying it bundled with the guitar saves you roughly $50 compared to purchasing separately.
The guitar itself matches the standard CD-60S spec. Solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, scalloped X-bracing, and a rolled fingerboard edge that makes chord transitions smoother. The abalone shell rosette around the soundhole is a small touch, but it gives the guitar a classier look than the plain natural finish on the standalone model.
Our tester has been playing for two years and called this the bundle he wishes he had started on. The included tuner, strap, picks, instructional DVD, and extra strings cover every accessory a beginner needs. The hard case is sturdy enough to stack other gear on top of during transport, which is a real space saver for small cars.
The main downside we found is that the guitar can shift slightly inside the hard case during transport. Adding a piece of foam or a small towel in the headstock area fixes this easily. Like the gig bag bundle, this version is not Prime eligible, so plan for a slightly longer delivery window.
Who this guitar works best for
Left-handed beginners who commute with their guitar or travel by plane. The hard case is also a smart choice for parents buying a first guitar for a child, since it protects the investment through years of bumps and drops. Anyone who wants a turnkey package with no extra shopping will appreciate the bundle.
Where this guitar falls short
The hard case is bulkier and heavier than a gig bag, so carrying it for long distances can be tiring. The factory strings still need an upgrade for serious practice. There is no pickup, so this is strictly an acoustic instrument.
6. Yamaha FG820 Left-Handed Solid Top – Best Solid Top
Yamaha FG820 Left-Handed Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
Solid Sitka spruce top
Mahogany back and sides
Rosewood fingerboard
Dreadnought body
Pros
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Full resonant sound
- Easy to play
- Adjustable truss rod
- Diecast tuners
Cons
- May need professional setup
- Heavier than expected
The Yamaha FG820 left-handed is the guitar we recommend when a player is ready to step up from a beginner bundle. Yamaha has built a strong reputation for delivering pro-grade quality at mid-tier prices, and the FG820 is a perfect example. The solid Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and rosewood fingerboard and bridge combine for a tone that punches well above the price tag.
Our intermediate tester, who has been playing for five years, called this the best value in solid top left-handed guitars. The sound is full, resonant, and balanced, with clear note separation even when you strum hard. The diecast tuners hold tuning through long sets, and the adjustable truss rod means you can dial in the exact action you want.
Yamaha’s quality control is what really stands out. Every FG820 we have seen in stores has consistent fit and finish, and the build quality rivals guitars costing two or three times as much. The dreadnought body produces a strong, room-filling sound that works for solo playing, group sessions, and small venue performances.
The trade-off at this price is that the guitar may need a professional setup out of the box. Two of our testers found the nut and bridge sat a little high, which made chord transitions harder than necessary. A $50 setup at a local shop fixed this and unlocked the guitar’s full playability. The FG820 is also heavier than the budget dreadnoughts, so smaller players should try one in person if possible.
Who this guitar works best for
Intermediate lefty players ready to upgrade from a beginner bundle. Singer-songwriters who want a solid top that records well and sounds great live. Yamaha fans and players who prioritize long-term tone development, since the solid spruce top will open up beautifully over years of playing.
Where this guitar falls short
No pickup system, so acoustic-electric players need to add a soundhole pickup or have a system installed. The factory setup is hit or miss, so budget for a professional adjustment. The plain natural finish lacks the visual flair of the Ibanez or the higher-end Yamaha LL series.
7. Ibanez AEG70L Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric – Best Acoustic-Electric
Ibanez AEG70L Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Tiger Burst High Gloss
Flame maple top
Sapele back and sides
Piezo pickup
Built-in tuner
Pros
- Beautiful Tiger Burst finish
- Great plugged-in tone
- Thin playable neck
- Built-in preamp and tuner
- Stays in tune
Cons
- May need truss rod adjustment
- Some QC variance
The Ibanez AEG70L is the best left-handed acoustic-electric we tested under $500. The flame maple top and Tiger Burst gloss finish make this one of the most visually striking guitars in our roundup, and the electronics are genuinely useful. The Ibanez T-Bar II undersaddle pickup and AEQ-TTS preamp deliver a clean, natural plugged-in tone that competes with systems costing twice as much.
Our gigging tester plugged the AEG70L into a Fishman Loudbox and was impressed by how well the onboard preamp reproduced the natural acoustic voice. The built-in tuner on the side of the body is a lifesaver on dark stages, and the tone and volume controls are positioned exactly where your strumming hand can reach without looking.
The nyatoh neck with walnut fingerboard has a slim, modern profile that is easier on smaller hands than the chunkier vintage necks on dreadnoughts. We also found the cutaway design gives clean access up to the 14th fret, which makes lead playing and high chord voicings far more comfortable. At 6 pounds, the AEG70L is lighter than most dreadnoughts, which matters during long gigs.
Quality control is where Ibanez sometimes slips. Two of the three units we sourced needed a truss rod tweak to lower the action. One had a small wood sliver near the bridge that needed sanding. These are minor issues, and a basic setup sorted them out, but buyers should plan on spending 15 minutes dialing the guitar in.
Who this guitar works best for
Lefty players who perform live at coffee shops, churches, or small venues. The slim neck and lighter body make it a good fit for players with smaller hands or anyone who finds dreadnoughts uncomfortable. Studio musicians who want a versatile acoustic-electric for tracking will appreciate the natural plugged-in tone.
Where this guitar falls short
Not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer. The flame maple top looks stunning but is not as tonally complex as spruce, so the unplugged voice is slightly less rich than solid spruce dreadnoughts. Players who want a traditional acoustic tone should look at the Yamaha FG820 instead.
8. Janerock Left Handed 41-Inch Beginner Kit – Starter Kit
Left Handed Guitar,Left Handed Acoustic Guitar Cutaway 41 inch Full-size Beginner Guitar Package with Gig Bag Tuner String Strap Capo,Black By Janerock
41-inch dreadnought cutaway
Basswood body
Mahogany neck
Truss rod
Pros
- Complete accessory package
- Cutaway design
- Truss rod adjustable
- Affordable price
- Beginner friendly
Cons
- Stock is limited
- Some users report missing accessories
- Removable pickups basic
The Janerock left-handed beginner kit rounds out our list as the most affordable complete package we tested. The price is hard to beat, and the kit includes a gig bag, strap, capo, strings, and tuner, which is everything a first-time player needs. We gave this kit to a 14-year-old beginner tester, and she was playing basic chords within a week.
The basswood body produces a mellow, balanced tone that is forgiving on the fingers. The cutaway design makes reaching the upper frets easier, which matters when you start learning barre chords and lead lines. The truss rod adjustment is a feature we rarely see on guitars in this price range, and it lets you fine-tune the action as your technique develops.
Our tester appreciated the lighter weight of the basswood body, which made practicing for long sessions more comfortable. The gloss black finish looks clean and modern, and the included gig bag is good enough for short trips to lessons. For a first guitar that will see daily use and the occasional bump, the Janerock kit delivers surprising value.
The downsides are what you would expect at this price point. The stock is limited and the listing fluctuates between available and out of stock. A few reviewers mentioned missing accessories in their box, so check the contents carefully when it arrives. The removable pickup system is basic and works for casual home recording, but serious players will want to upgrade.
Who this guitar works best for
Absolute beginners, parents buying a first guitar for a child, or anyone who wants a low-risk starter instrument. The complete kit removes any guesswork about what else to buy. It also works as a travel guitar you do not mind leaving in a hotel room.
Where this guitar falls short
Limited stock means you may have to wait for a restock. Build quality is consistent for the price, but it does not match the long-term durability of a Fender or Yamaha. The included tuner and capo are functional but basic, and serious players will want to upgrade them within a year.
How to Choose the Best Left Handed Acoustic Guitar for You
Choosing a left-handed acoustic guitar comes down to four decisions: body size, tonewood construction, electronics, and brand. The body size affects comfort and tone more than any other factor. Dreadnoughts are bold and loud, concert guitars are balanced and mid-sized, and parlor guitars are compact with a focused voice. Most lefty beginners do well with a dreadnought because the larger body projects well and gives you room to grow as your technique develops.
Solid top versus laminate is the second big decision. A solid wood top vibrates more freely and improves in tone as the wood ages, which is why most serious acoustic guitars use solid spruce or cedar tops. Laminate tops are more affordable and resistant to temperature and humidity changes, but they do not develop the same complexity over time. If your budget allows it, a solid top is worth the upgrade.
Acoustic-electric guitars add a pickup and preamp so you can plug into an amp or PA system. If you plan to play live, perform at open mics, or record through an interface, an acoustic-electric like the Ibanez AEG70L is worth the extra cost. If you only play at home, a pure acoustic saves money and keeps the signal chain simple.
Brand matters because it usually translates to quality control, warranty support, and resale value. Fender, Yamaha, and Martin are the most established names in left-handed acoustics. Ibanez, Epiphone, and Taylor round out the mid-tier with strong options. Donner, Vangoa, and Janerock offer solid budget choices for beginners who want to start without a major investment.
Body Size Comparison: Dreadnought vs Concert vs Parlor
Dreadnought guitars are the largest common body shape, with a 25.5-inch scale length and a deep, wide lower bout. They produce a strong bass response and project loudly, which makes them popular for strumming and flatpicking. The trade-off is that they are bulky and can be uncomfortable for smaller players or anyone who prefers to sit cross-legged while playing.
Concert guitars are mid-sized, with a more balanced frequency response and a slimmer waist. They are easier to hold and feel more comfortable for fingerstyle playing. Many lefty players switch to a concert body after a year or two on a dreadnought because the size is friendlier without sacrificing too much volume. Taylor’s Grand Concert and Grand Performance models are industry favorites in this category.
Parlor guitars are the smallest traditional body, with a tight, focused voice that excels at blues and folk fingerpicking. They are easy to transport and feel intimate to play, but they do not project as loudly as a dreadnought. For travel or couch playing, a parlor lefty is a great choice. Brands like Fender and Gretsch make affordable parlor options in left-handed configurations.
Solid Top vs Laminate: What You Get for the Money
A solid top is cut from a single piece of wood, usually spruce, cedar, or mahogany. The grain is continuous, which allows the top to vibrate more freely and produce a richer, more complex tone. Solid tops also open up over time, meaning the guitar sounds better after months and years of playing. The Yamaha FG820 and Fender CD-60S both use solid spruce tops, which is a big reason we rank them highly.
Laminate tops are made from thin layers of wood glued together, often with a beautiful outer veneer. They are more affordable, more durable, and more resistant to humidity and temperature changes, which makes them a smart choice for beginners or players who live in climates with big seasonal swings. The Donner, Vangoa, and Janerock kits all use laminate construction to hit their low price points.
If you can stretch your budget to a solid top, the upgrade is worth it. The tone difference is noticeable even to casual listeners, and a solid top guitar holds its resale value much better. For your first serious instrument, a solid top dreadnought like the Yamaha FG820 is the sweet spot of price and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are left handed acoustic guitars more expensive than right handed models?
Yes, left handed acoustic guitars usually cost 10 to 20 percent more than the equivalent right handed model. The price difference comes from lower production volumes, special tooling, and higher shipping costs. You can also expect fewer color and finish options in lefty configurations.
What is the best left handed acoustic guitar for beginners?
For most left handed beginners, we recommend the Fender CD-60S bundle or the Donner DAG-1CL kit. Both play well out of the box, include the accessories you need to start, and cost under 300 dollars. The Fender offers better long-term resale, while the Donner includes more accessories in the box.
Can I just flip a right handed guitar instead of buying a left handed model?
You can flip a right handed guitar, but you will need to restring it, reverse the nut, and reconfigure the bridge saddle. This costs 50 to 100 dollars at a luthier and the result is rarely as comfortable as a true left handed build. For long term playing, a proper lefty guitar is the better investment.
Which brands make the best left handed acoustic guitars?
Fender, Yamaha, and Martin are the most trusted names for left handed acoustic guitars. Ibanez leads the acoustic electric category, while Epiphone, Taylor, and Seagull offer strong mid range options. For budget friendly kits, Donner and Vangoa deliver surprising quality under 200 dollars.
What body size is best for a left handed beginner?
A dreadnought body is the most popular choice for left handed beginners because it projects well, fills a room with sound, and gives you room to grow as your technique develops. Smaller players or anyone who prefers fingerstyle playing should consider a concert body like a Taylor Grand Concert for a more comfortable fit.
Final Verdict on the Best Left Handed Acoustic Guitars in 2026
After three months of testing, our top pick for the best left handed acoustic guitars in 2026 is the Fender CD-60S Left-Handed Dreadnought. It combines solid construction, reliable setup, and a tone that works for any style, all at a price most players can afford. For budget shoppers, the Donner DAG-1CL kit is the smartest starting point, and for live performers, the Ibanez AEG70L is the best acoustic-electric we found under 500 dollars.
Whichever lefty guitar you choose, you are joining a tradition that includes legends like Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, and Gary Moore. A properly built left-handed instrument makes playing more comfortable and helps you develop the right technique from day one. Browse our other lefty gear guides, including the left handed bass roundup, and start playing the guitar that was made for you.