Norlin L5

Lab Series L5: A Versatile Vintage Amp

This Lab Series L5 amplifier, a hidden gem from the late 1970s and early 1980s, is in great working order despite some cosmetic wear, including a missing “Lab Series” badge. Designed by Bob Moog and Dan Pearce, and distributed by Gibson, the L5 offers remarkable versatility.

It’s known for its ability to handle diverse genres; it’s been a favorite of jazz legends like Allan Holdsworth, blues icon B.B. King, and rock guitarist Ty Tabor.

Channel one delivers loud, clean tones reminiscent of a Fender Twin. Unusually for a solid-state amp, it provides tube-like warmth even at low volumes, making it an excellent platform for pedals or smooth jazz.

Channel two truly stands out with its ability to produce everything from subtle breakup to rich, saturated overdrive. Beyond standard gain and EQ, it features a unique semi-parametric mid EQ, allowing you to precisely shape your tone by selecting and adjusting frequencies from 100 Hz to 6.4 kHz.