
( Brand: Shakespeare ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: USLPSP11701M ), ( Model: LITE PRO USLPSP11701M ), ( Combo Type: Rod Reel ), ( Number Of Pieces: Two ), ( Reel Type: Open ), ( Set Includes: Rod And Reel )
The **Shakespeare Ugly Stik Lite Pro (USLPSP11701M)** is a premium, ultra-lightweight and ultra-portable electric guitar designed for musicians who demand both performance and portability without compromising on tone, playability, or durability. Engineered with a **carbon fiber body**, this guitar redefines modern mobility for touring musicians, studio artists, and gigging performers who need a reliable instrument that can withstand the rigors of travel while delivering a rich, resonant sound. Weighing in at just **4.5 pounds**, the Ugly Stik Lite Pro is a fraction of the weight of traditional guitars, making it an ideal companion for extended rehearsals, late-night sessions, or spontaneous performances where lugging around a heavy instrument is impractical. Its **slim, ergonomic profile** and **contoured neck** ensure a comfortable playing experience, even during marathon practice sessions, while the **slim-tapered neck** (with a scale length of 25.5 inches) offers a fast, responsive feel that appeals to both beginners and seasoned players alike.
The **Ugly Stik Lite Pro** is equipped with **Shakespeare s proprietary Ugly Stik tuning system**, a revolutionary mechanism that eliminates the need for traditional tuning pegs. Instead, it features **quick-change tuning knobs** that allow for effortless adjustments simply turn the knobs to fine-tune your strings without the frustration of slipping pegs or excessive friction. This innovative design not only enhances tuning stability but also reduces the risk of intonation issues, ensuring your guitar stays in tune longer, even during intense playing sessions. The **12th fret inlay** and **dot position markers** provide clear guidance for precise playing, while the **glossy black finish** gives the guitar a sleek, modern aesthetic that stands out on stage or in the studio.
Under the hood, the Ugly Stik Lite Pro is powered by **Shakespeare s high-quality electronics**, including a **passive preamp** with a **volume and tone control**, allowing for seamless integration with any amplifier or recording setup. The **humbucker-style pickups** deliver a warm, balanced tone with reduced noise, making them versatile for a variety of musical styles from clean acoustic-like tones to crisp electric chops. The **bridge-mounted tremolo system** (with a smooth, stable action) offers subtle vibrato control without the instability of traditional whammy bars, making it perfect for expressive playing and subtle tonal variations. Whether you're bending strings, diving into palm-muted riffs, or playing delicate fingerstyle arpeggios, the Ugly Stik Lite Pro adapts effortlessly to your musical expression.
Built to endure the demands of professional use, the **Ugly Stik Lite Pro** features **durable, high-tension carbon fiber construction**, which not only reduces weight but also enhances resistance to impact and wear. The **reinforced nut and saddle** ensure longevity, while the **hardware is made from lightweight yet sturdy materials**, including a **chrome-plated bridge and tuning knobs** that resist corrosion and maintain a polished appearance. The guitar s **compact size** (measuring approximately 33 inches in length) makes it easy to store in a backpack, carry on an airplane, or transport in a gig bag, yet it retains enough resonance and sustain to hold its own against full-sized instruments. Whether you're a touring musician, a session player, or a musician who values versatility, the Ugly Stik Lite Pro is a game-changer a guitar that doesn t just keep up with your lifestyle but elevates it, blending innovation, portability, and premium craftsmanship into one incredibly capable instrument.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Shakespeare Ugly Stik Lite Pro (USLPSP11701M)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Affordable Entry-Level Guitar** The Ugly Stik Lite Pro is one of the most budget-friendly electric guitars available, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want a reliable instrument without breaking the bank.
2. **Durable and Rugged Design** The guitar is built with a solid alder body and a maple neck, which provides a good balance of durability and playability. The "ugly" aesthetic is intentional, designed to withstand rough handling, making it ideal for students or players who may not treat their instrument with extreme care.
3. **Great for Beginners** The Lite Pro is part of Shakespeare s beginner series, which means it comes with a simple, user-friendly setup. It includes a single-coil pickup (a common choice for beginners) and a basic control layout, making it easy to understand and use.
4. **Lightweight and Comfortable** The guitar is relatively lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during practice sessions, especially for younger or smaller players.
5. **Included Accessories** Many beginner bundles include essentials like a strap, picks, and sometimes a tuner or cable, which adds value for new players who may not yet have these items.
6. **Good Sound for the Price** While not as high-end as professional guitars, the single-coil pickup delivers a clear, punchy tone that works well for rock, blues, and other beginner-friendly genres.
7. **Easy to Find Replacement Parts** Since it s a popular budget guitar, parts like strings, pickups, and hardware are widely available and inexpensive.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Limited Tone Options** The single-coil pickup provides a bright, crunchy tone that works for certain styles but lacks the warmth or versatility of humbucker pickups. Players who want a wider range of sounds may need to upgrade later.
2. **Basic Hardware** The tuning pegs and bridge are functional but not premium, which means they may not hold tuning as well as higher-end guitars, especially after frequent use.
3. **Build Quality Variations** Some units may have slight inconsistencies in finish or fit, which is common in budget instruments. While most are well-made, a few may feel slightly flimsy compared to mid-range guitars.
4. **Limited Customization** Unlike higher-end guitars, there are few options for upgrading components (e.g., replacing pickups or electronics) without investing in aftermarket parts.
5. **Not Ideal for Advanced Players** While it s a great starter guitar, its limitations in tone, playability, and build quality make it less suitable for serious players or those who plan to progress quickly.
6. **Resale Value** Budget guitars typically depreciate quickly, so if you decide to upgrade later, you may not recover much of your initial investment.
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### **Conclusion:**The Shakespeare Ugly Stik Lite Pro is an excellent choice for **absolute beginners** who need a durable, affordable, and functional electric guitar to start learning. It excels in accessibility, practicality, and value, making it perfect for students, casual players, or anyone who wants a no-frills instrument without overspending.
However, if you re a **serious musician** looking for a guitar that will grow with your skills, a mid-range or professional model with better pickups, hardware, and tone options would be a wiser long-term investment. The Lite Pro is best suited for those who prioritize **cost, durability, and simplicity** over advanced features.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy it if:** You re a beginner on a tight budget, you want a guitar that can handle rough play, and you re happy with a basic tone and setup.
- **Consider alternatives if:** You plan to play seriously for years, want better tone options, or prefer a more polished build quality. In that case, look at guitars like the Squier Affinity Series, Epiphone Les Paul Studio, or Yamaha Pacifica for a step up in quality without a huge price increase.
Sporting Goods Fishing SHAKESPEARE UGLY STIK LITE PRO USLPSP11701M 7'0 MEDIUM SINGLE ROD W/ DAIWA SWEEPFIRE 2500-2B REEL Dept: FRONT WALL.